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Example of an exploding cramp cracking the stonework
Using a metal detector to locate the cramps
Cathodic Protection Case Studies
Almshouses, Whitchurch
SACP - Cramps
Wrought iron cramps and dowels were often built into traditional masonry structures in the 18th and 19th centuries to secure stones which otherwise might be prone to movement or displacement. The wrought iron cramps in the Grade II listed Whitchurch Almshouses have been subject to corrosion ultimately leading to the spalling of the ashlar façade.
In 1999, a pioneering SACP system was installed to protect the cramps from further corrosion. Magnesium anodes were buried in the ground and electrically connected to the embedded iron cramps using 'key hole' surgery in order to minimise the damage to the undamaged stone.
