Along the Herenthoutseweg and the E313 in Herentals, a new business complex, ‘Heat 21’, is rising on the former site of the Henrad radiator factory. This project, developed by Wim Heylen and the Molenwater Group, includes, among other things, Lidl's sixth distribution center in Belgium. With an area of 43,400 m² and a sustainable design according to the highest BREEAM standard, the center will be equipped with energy-efficient installations, advanced waste management, and innovative water management.
Challenges in water management
Contractor Aclagro – Steven Gysen, Regional Director of Aclagro East – enlisted Deschacht’s engineering department for the design and optimization of the complete drainage and buffering plan. With a building 300 meters long and approximately 100 loading docks for trucks, a well-thought-out water management system was essential. This project is one of the larger private-sector optimizations recently carried out by Deschacht, an approach that Deschacht more frequently applies to public works. Deschacht analyzed the original plan and worked closely with Aclagro and the architectural firm Architeam to achieve a more efficient design. The result: a simplified sewerage system that is not only technically high-performing, but also cost-saving. Quite a challenge, given that in accordance with current guidelines, no overflow was designed for this project on a paved surface of approx. 8 ha. In total, the project encompasses approximately 5000 m³ of buffering capacity, with integrated wadis functioning as communicating vessels via our Ribwall pipes to guarantee a stable water level.
Optimized infrastructure and smart product choices
For the basic infrastructure, a robust network of PVC pipes, conduit ducts, and hundreds of meters of PP Ribwall infiltration and drainage pipes was chosen. Although not the cheapest option, Ribwall offers a high-quality and durable solution that enjoys the trust of both contractor and architect. Inspection chambers were strategically mapped out, including several large PE chambers up to and including a diameter of 1600 mm with integrated DN1000 Ribwall connections. In addition to optimizing the design, Deschacht supplied six double-walled oil separators, including a model with an integrated pump station, produced by sister company Collinet. These installations comply with the strict Vlarem II standards, which will become mandatory starting in 2028. Collinet's double-walled HDPE tanks are currently the only underground tanks that comply with this legislation.
Sprinkler pipes
For this project, commissioned by specialist Canalco, we are supplying more than 1 kilometer of Ø300 ductile iron pipes, FM approved and specifically used for the sprinkler system. Canalco, expert in the
installation of underground pipelines, fire-fighting pipelines, heating pipes and drinking water connections, relies on these quality products as a safe and sustainable solution.
Our ductile iron pipes from Electrosteel guarantee outstanding strength, corrosion resistance, and reliability – essential for fire protection systems.
Efficient execution and local support
An additional challenge was the tight execution schedule: the entire sewerage system had to be installed within three months. Thanks to optimal logistical cooperation between the parties involved and the proximity of the Deschacht branch in Geel, fast and efficient delivery could be guaranteed. In addition, Deschacht handled the production of the technical drawings for the chambers, which were manufactured by Collinet and, in the case of the larger models, by exclusive partner Kaczmarek. This once again demonstrates the added value of Deschacht as a specialist in water management and infrastructure solutions for large-scale projects. Steven Gysen of Aclagro: “Throughout the optimization process and the delivery of the project, communication was always handled correctly. For us as a contractor, it is of great importance to be able to work with a reliable partner who keeps agreements punctually.” With this expertise and well-considered solutions, Aclagro and Deschacht contribute to the sustainable and efficient realization of the ‘Heat 21’ business complex.
