When it comes to pipeline repairs, environmental impact is a major consideration in how damaged pipelines are handled. It’s this concern about the environment that has led to the emergence of trenchless pipe repair methods.
There are a handful of pros and cons to trenchless pipe repair, and the many eco-friendly benefits fall easily into the pro column. But how exactly is trenchless pipe repair so environmentally friendly? Read on to find out.
Trenchless Pipe Repair Eco-Friendly Benefits
Eco-friendly repair methods are a top priority of many pipelining specialists. That’s why the trenchless repair method is gaining such popularity as a method to renew pipelines. Below are just a few of the many eco-friendly benefits of trenchless pipe repair methods.
Minimal Landscape Impact
One of the key benefits of trenchless pipeline methods such as spiral wound pipelining is the lack of digging required. Instead of digging up the existing pipeline, the trenchless method is able to restore the deteriorated pipe without digging the above-ground.
With these methods the surrounding landscape and related ecosystems are left undisturbed. This means that roads, lawns, medians, parks, and other areas are able to maintain their integrity. This allows the living environment to continue to prosper and everyday life to continue while pipelines are fixed. The lack of digging further reduces the surrounding landscape’s risk of exposure to the harmful waste that lies below.
Chemical Free Processes
Certain trenchless pipe lining methods are capable of fully restoring pipelines without harmful or odorous chemicals. This mitigates any concern of contaminating or needing to contain the use of these substances. Odorous chemicals are also obnoxious to the surrounding community. Lining processes such as pipe bursting or spiral wound lining can be accomplished without the use of chemicals/curing.
State-of-the-Art Technology
Trenchless pipeline repair methods eliminate the need for heavy machinery as well as large construction mobilization. Instead, the equipment needed is often more compact with decreased carbon emissions and less need for fuel/thermal processes. Most trenchless lining projects are accomplished utilizing one truck and the subsequent equipment/material needed. This technology also allows the repair to be done more efficiently, leaving less time for energy-consuming labor and reducing costs.
Long-Lasting Results
Finally, trenchless repair methods like spiral wound pipelining lead to lasting results. Most trenchless repairs are designed for a minimum 50-year life. This reduces the chances of needing a total pipeline replacement and causes significantly fewer disturbances to the environment and community.
Trenchless Pipelining Tips
On top of the extensive list of eco-friendly benefits, there are supplementary steps your team can take to further decrease your impact on the environment within trenchless pipe lining projects. These include:
Finding the Right Method
The different trenchless pipe lining methods each have their pros and cons, and this is also true for eco-friendly benefits. Whether you value UV curing instead of thermal curing for CIPP, or a 100% chemical free process altogether such as spiral wound, do some research on the environmental benefits of each method.
Know the Project Location’s Requirements
There are pipelines that need renewal under just about any type of location imaginable. A project may occur in an ecological reserve, state park, or biologically sensitive area. There have been instances where biologists have been required to be onsite to ensure habitats were untouched during construction. These types of factors may dictate the selection of a trenchless lining material and process that is deemed entirely eco-friendly. It is important to view the project history of a certain trenchless lining method and see if there are past examples of projects in environmentally sensitive locations.
SEKISUI SPR Trenchless Method
At SEKISUI SPR, we understand that an environmentally friendly process is essential for modern-day pipeline repairs. Our spiral wound liners are just that; an eco-friendly lining option for gravity sewers, storm drains and culverts.
We aim to continuously reimagine and innovate new eco-friendly pipeline solutions that rehabilitate your damaged pipeline with as little effect on the surrounding area as possible. That is why our parent company, SEKISUI Chemical, Co. has been selected as one of the Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World for 4 years in a row.
Contact us today to learn more about our trenchless pipeline methods and how we can assist you in safely repairing your pipelines.