ARTIFICIAL SPORTS SURFACES
Be mindful of infill migration when it comes to brushing your synthetic surface
he ability of a synthetic
T turf surface to sustain high levels of usage and facilitate large numbers of people to play sport has cemented their role in many communities . However , it ’ s important that it is used in such a way that minimises the negative impact it has on its surroundings . One important fact to consider is minimising the migration of infill into the environment .
The EMEA Synthetic Turf Council ( ESTC ), working in conjunction with the European Standards Committee ( CEN ) have prepared Technical Report 17519 : Guidance on how to Minimise Infill Dispersion into the Environment – detailing how to employment of some simple design , operation and maintenance procedures can help to reduce the potential of infill contaminating the surrounding environment . Together with construction considerations , such as containment barriers , decontamination mats and perimeter drainage , the ongoing maintenance must also be conducted mindfully .
With the use of a synthetic surface , infill will naturally migrate outwards towards the pitch perimeters which is where effective maintenance comes into play ; ensuring that infill is returned to the higher use areas for surface stability and playability . The easiest way to do this is through regular brushing , though thought should be given to the type of brush used to reduce the risk of infill flicking up and off the surface .
GKB Machines have a range of brush options including the 4m wide Brush , for quick surface coverage with hydraulically foldable wings for convenient transportation and storage . In addition , the GKB Quick-Brush can be configured with a range of optional extras including a rake or rubber finishing mat to suit individual requirements .
Also in the GKB stable is the Rotobrush , for the effective maintenance of perimeter areas with significantly lower risks of infill dispersal when compared to the use of other equipment , such as leaf blowers . The rotating brush head on the arm of the Rotobrush can switch between clockwise and anti-clockwise operation , with the rigid bristles effectively collecting the accumulated infill and moving it towards the centre of the surface . Together with redistributing infill , brushing the perimeters of an artificial pitch is also crucial to stop moss , algae and other contaminants taking hold .
When brushing or using any other maintenance tools such as cleaners , it is inevitable that some infill will be collected on the bristles and bodywork so take care to ensure that machinery is thoroughly cleaned before it leaves the surface . Ideally , once the job is complete , the equipment should then be securely stored on a hard surface , in an area that doesn ’ t drain into the surrounding environment .
Further information around synthetic surface ‘ best practice ’ can be sourced through the EMEA Synthetic Turf Council – of which GKB Machines are a member .
www . gkbmachines . com
34 GroundskeepingJournal . co . uk | January / February 2023