Collapsed pipelines or lines that are heading to failure can cause major issues for a city. Service disruptions, flooding, and a strong sewer odor in the air are just a few of the consequences of damaged pipelines. For this reason, many municipalities are identifying underground infrastructure in need of maintenance or repair sooner.
As you prepare to evaluate different trenchless lining technologies, it can be difficult to know their key differences/similarities. This guide is designed to assist in specifying the proper trenchless lining technology for any specific pipe repair application.
Types of Sewer Repair Methods
Traditional pipeline repair methods (such as dig and replace) are slowly becoming a thing of the past, so it’s best to choose one of the latest trenchless pipeline repair methods for longer-lasting pipes. We’ve outlined a few of the top structural pipelining methods below.
Spiral Wound Lining
The first sewer pipe repair method we’ll touch on is a SEKISUI SPR specialty: Spiral Wound Lining. This repair method involves installing a wound PVC liner into the existing pipeline. Spiral Wound Lining is a top choice for many repair specialists as it is a fully structural method that can often be completed in a live flow.
Cured-in-Place Pipe (CIPP)
The cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) method is another fully structural choice for sewer repairs. This method is completed using a resin-impregnated tube that is placed into the existing pipeline and cured. In the end, it becomes a new pipe inside of the host pipe, providing additional support to the damaged areas.
Sliplining
Sliplining is a sewer pipe repair method that utilizes the existing pipe combined with a supportive liner. This method works by slipping the slightly smaller, flexible liner into the existing pipe. The annular space between the inserted new pipe and the host is grouted.
Pipe-Bursting
For those interested in upsizing their pipelines, the pipe-bursting repair method may be the way to go. Instead of using the existing pipeline, this sewer pipe repair method eliminates and replaces the old pipe. A new pipe is inserted within the void left by eliminating the host pipe.
Choosing a Sewer Pipe Repair Method
For full evaluation, make sure to weigh the pros and cons of each repair method. However, there are additional factors to keep in mind when choosing a sewer repair option. We’ve outlined a few of the most common ones that you’ll want to further discuss as well.
Size, Shape, and Length
Certain repair methods have a maximum capacity when it comes to the diameter, shape, or length of your pipeline. For instance, Spiral Wound is capable of renewing pipelines between 6” – 200”+, while technology such as pipe bursting will cover roughly 4” – 48”.
Pipe Condition
Your pipe condition is a major factor in your repair. Certain methods only work if the pipe does not have an overabundance of repair points. Pipelines in very bad condition may need a series of point repairs prior to any sort of trenchless lining.
Estimated Construction Cost
It’s also important to understand the financial commitment that comes with each repair. A contributing factor in cost is temporary bypass pumping. For technologies that can be installed in live flow, this cost may be avoided. Research the estimated cost of each viable repair method.
Existing Flow Level
Lining technologies such as Spiral Wound can commonly be done in a live flow, but many other methods cannot. Instead, they may require bypass pumping. If a live flow is present, this may increase the cost but could further filter outlining options for applications that require a dry pipe and bypass is not an option.
Available Access Points
Along with the length of your pipeline, the length between access points will help clarify which technology to use. A longer length between access points may be an indicator that certain repair techniques are not an option.
Above-Ground Space
Another consideration when it comes to sewer repairs is above-ground space. Some methods may require more space for access pits, trucks, etc. Lack of space may lead to issues with the chosen repair method and should be considered before a final decision is made.
Environmental Considerations
Lastly, a trenchless method’s eco-friendly attributes should be a consideration. Environmental regulations will be dictated by the project’s location; for instance, if a pipe renewal job is located in a protected area (park, reserve, etc.), there may be stricter requirements on choosing a repair method. Fortunately, many trenchless lining methods are ecologically friendly and have proven track records in such environments.
SEKISUI SPR Trenchless Pipe Repairs
When it comes to sewer pipe repair methods, it’s best to work with professionals who can properly evaluate your pipelines and select the best repair for your specific needs. That’s where the team at SEKISUI SPR comes in. As a leading provider of pipeline rehabilitation technology, our team is well versed in the realm of state-of-the-art repair methods.
Contact us today to learn more about our trenchless pipeline repair methods!
