| 75th Anniversary
profiles etc. Our unique products have allowed us to develop innovative solutions, some of which are patented. Carpi’s growth has certainly also benefited from these relationships.
Could you share a significant technological breakthrough or innovation that has been pivotal in shaping Carpi Tech’s reputation in the hydropower sector? Our history has been punctuated by several breakthroughs. The development of geomembrane systems that could be installed underwater was the first important one. Carpi initiated its exploration of underwater geomembrane technologies in the early 1990s. This in-house research culminated in a two- year research project conducted from 1995 to 1996, in collaboration with the US Army Corps of Engineers at their Waterways Experiment Station. The Corps validated the Carpi solutions, which were first applied in 1997 to waterproof the upstream face of Lost Creek arch dam in the US, and have since been installed in several dam projects around the world. This helped shape our reputation as leaders in geomembrane systems design and installation in the dry and underwater. So far more that 20 projects have been completed underwater. A second breakthrough was our patented flexible geomembrane anchorage system embedded in extruded porous concrete curbs, which allows for constructing new embankment dams in a safe, faster and less expensive way. This solution and its further developments have given birth to what is now known worldwide as Geomembrane Faced Rockfill Dam. Finally, Carpi invented an innovative system utilizing
its flexible geomembranes and watertight heavy-duty zips, used for lining canals underwater, even in flowing water conditions.
What role has sustainability played in Carpi Tech’s historical projects, and how has the company adapted to changing environmental standards and expectations? Since day one, sustainability has been a cornerstone of our projects’ design and implementation. Our systems are purposefully crafted to be more environmentally friendly than traditional alternatives. In recent years, our dedication to environmental stewardship has intensified significantly. Carpi has established ambitious targets aimed at substantially reducing our environmental footprint. Through ongoing performance monitoring, awareness initiatives, collaboration with suppliers, and targeted action plans, our commitment to sustainability continues to grow stronger over time.
How has Carpi Tech’s workforce evolved over the years, and what key skills or expertise have been instrumental in driving the company’s success in hydropower projects? In the pioneer period, Carpi had in total about 10 employees based in Italy. At present, we are a group with headquarters in Switzerland and worldwide operation, with four poles (Europe, India, North America and Latam) and offices in 10 countries. Our workforce amounts to about 120 employees, to which local labour trained and approved by Carpi is added for specific projects. Our success has two main driving
forces – quality and safety. Quality in respect to design, materials, and installation procedures and controls. Safety for our employees and for all people involved in a project. Our clients trust in this reliability, often resulting in us being entrusted with multiple projects by the same owner.
What recent projects has Carpi Tech been involved in, and how do these projects reflect the company’s current priorities and values? In the past few years, we have been increasingly involved in lining of upper and lower reservoirs of new pumped storage schemes, and in developing underwater geomembrane systems to repair deteriorated canals without impacting on operation. We have been approached by clients with demanding projects because we strongly believe that saving water, developing sustainable energy sources, and preserving the environment, is a common responsibility. It’s imperative that we encourage the proliferation of projects aligned with these principles and strive to ensure they are safe, efficient, durable, and profitable.
How does Carpi Tech approach risk management in its present-day hydropower ventures, particularly in light of changing regulatory landscapes?
Risk management begins at the inception of each project, initiated by a preliminary analysis which always takes into consideration the regulatory framework. The more we enter in the project’s details, more elements are added to the assessment and, if required, preventive and corrective actions are implemented.
How does Carpi Tech ensure the quality and sustainability of its waterproofing geomembrane systems for hydraulic structures?
Quality and sustainability of our system depend on the design, materials and installation process. Carpi’s extensive experience and references attest to the quality of our designs. Sustainability is a key focus, as we strive to optimize solutions for each project, minimizing their environmental impact. Regarding the materials, quality and sustainability are ensured by a constant open dialogue with
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Above: Underwater installation at Studena buttress dam, 55m high, Bulgaria
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