Controlling the meltwater from large sculptures such as the ice bar above can be a challenge. These platforms offer a straightforward solution...

*updated 7/3/11



The item below is called a modular spill containment platform (from Grainger Industrial Supply, currently $97.25). Above, two are linked together with an included connecting strip. These platforms are each designed to hold the weight of 55 gallon drums and collect any leaking fluid (actually, each can support up to 2000 lbs, according to Grainger). They also happen to be ideal for supporting heavy ice sculptures (ice bars and multi-block pieces) and collecting their meltwater. Each platform will hold 12 gallons of water, which is often plenty for a 4 to 6 hour event. If not, then it’s not terribly difficult to pump some of the water out. At the end of the event, the trays can be pumped out or dragged to a place where the water can be dumped.



The trays can be linked together on any side, so creating a very large tray isn’t a problem. Each tray measures 26 inches by 26 inches and is 6.5 inches high. So the tray below measures 52” by 52” and the connecting strips prevent water from leaking down between the trays. A small piece of plastic should go over the hole in the middle, however.



Other sized platforms are available from Grainger as well. There’s a two drum platform, and a four drum platform, among others. Dean Carlson of Styled Ice gets credit for sharing this idea, as I first saw them at one of his shops. Dean made the trays less conspicuous by painting the yellow plastic black. These trays represent a reliable and affordable solution for a sometimes challenging problem

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Tags: display trays, ice bars, multi-block