Rib Strips for expansion joints

With the Rib Strip SX® 1, StekoX® from Magstadt, Germany, are expanding their product portfolio with a highly versatile product that is used for the post-construction waterproofing of expansion joints. The characteristically formed hollow compression strip has been developed with a EPDM base (Ethylene-Propylene-Diene-Monomer). The strip’s special shape which resembles a human rib cage makes the insertion process quick and easy and ensures that the strip is securely positioned in the joint. The strip’s design prevents reserve water pressure from forcing the strip back out of the joint. 

 

The Rib Strip is inserted with the aid of Polymer-Quellpaste SX® 100 from StekoX®. This adhesive compound is firstly applied to both flanks of the expansion joint which is to be sealed. The Rib Strip SX® 1 can then be driven into the joint with a wedge-shaped tool. Due to the strip’s tapered front section, the paste is distributed between the strip and the joint’s flanks and accumulates in the front knuckle section of the strip. As a result, the paste accumulated in this area fixes the strip in position and at the same time reliably seals the joint. During insertion, the strip’s cross ribs rest against the centre bar. Reverse water pressure then leads to the cross ribs being pushed outwards and in so doing jamming the strip into the joint. The Rib Strip SX® 1 is worked as far into the joint so that it is flush with the sloping edge of the joint’s flanks.

 

To ensure an effective seal with the strip, the joint’s flanks must be firm, clean and dry. If this is not the case, the flanks must be cleaned accordingly before insertion so that the polymer paste and the strip can develop their full functionality and seal the joint tightly. 

With the StekoX® mitre cutting tool, suitable corner sections can be easily created on site if necessary. 

StekoX® offers the Rib Strip SX® 1 in three different sizes: for expansion joints with a width from 20-25 mm, 30-35 mm and 40-45 mm.