Which pipe rehabilitation method should I choose?
Pipe rehabilitation is common practice for ageing pipelines or those that have carried large volumes of liquid repeatedly, and over a long period (sewages and manholes, for example). Pipe rehabilitation as a preventative measure is always recommended; it will save you having to dedicate an extortionate amount of time and money to repairing leaks and accompanying damages.
There are many pipe rehabilitation methods out there… but which ones are favourable? Our experts explain their top three in this article (spoiler: they’re cost-effective and kind to the environment!).
1. Cured-in-Place Pipe (CIPP)
Cured-in-Place Pipelining (CIPP) involves inserting a polyester resin-filled sock or sleeve into your damaged or degrading pipe. CIIP liners are placed by using one of the three following inversion methods:
- Winch inversion;
- Water inversion;
- Air or steam inversion.
Cured-in-Place Pipe is a type of trenchless repair – meaning it uses few to no trenches and does not require the disturbance of surrounding groundwork. CIPP, along with other types of trenchless repair – like Fold and Formed Pipe (often called slip lining pipe rehabilitation) – are relatively non-invasive options.
CIPP is a versatile technique and can be used on pipes of any girth – simply by inflating the polyester sock and sleeve to fit. There are two types of CIPP used depending on the length; `ambient cure` is used for short pipes (4-8ft) and `thermal cure` for longer sections of pipe. Read more about pipe repair systems here.
2. Fold and Formed Pipe (Also known as slip lining rehabilitation)
Just like CIPP, Fold and Formed Pipe is a type of pipe rehabilitation that can be completed without digging trenches or disrupting the earth around it. The Fold and Formed Pipe technique involves shaping a new, smaller pipe (either by rolling it down or folding and welding it together) and slotting it into the old pipe. Once it’s in, the additional pipe is expanded by using heat to create a watertight fit. Simple but effective!
3. Coatings
Coatings are also one of our favourite pipe rehabilitation techniques. You’ll find them made from either cement or polymer (along with other ingredients) and they can be hand-applied, poured, or even sprayed on, in, and around pipelines.
Pipe rehabilitation companies near me
At CCUK, our concrete repairs teams are fully trained in all methods of pipeline and liquid storage rehabilitation. Read more about Pipeline & Liquid Storage strengthening methods here. Not sure what you’re looking for? Get in touch for further advice.