Pipe lining is the rehabilitation and reinforcement of existing pipelines without the need for excavation. Used as part of a multitude of solutions. Examples include rehabilitation of pitch fibre pipework, or in situations that call for reinforcement after damage from problems such as root ingress.
CIPP, or Cured In Place Pipe is the product used for this job. Multiple types exist, allowing us to provide solutions for problems that would be otherwise resolvable without excavation. Ambient temperature CIPP, and heat CIPP usage is described here. CIPP lining uses a flexible tube impregnated with resin. This is used to form a new pipeline within the original host.
CIPP generally has become one of the more preferred methods for pipework rehabilitation. Especially in the case of deteriorated underground sewers and pipes. This is due to its low installation cost, ease and speed of installation. It also minimises ancillary requirements such as traffic re-routing and security.
At the heart of the CIPP system is the resin matrix. Until it is cured by Ultra Violet (UV) Light, it remains in a liquid state within the host material – a glass reinforced tube. UV cured CIPP liners are factory manufactured and have a long shelf life provided they are not exposed to UV light.
A glass fiber reinforced liner is impregnated with polyester or vinylester resin (at the production facility). The liner is pulled into the pipe to be rehabilitated via existing shafts. For large diameters, small construction pits may be required. The liner is then closed, put under pressure and cured with UV light. After curing, the system provides a structural liner comparable to a new pipe.
In the event of groundwater ingress, preliminary sealing is required. The resins must not come into contact with water before curing. Punctual methods or the usage of a preliner prior to insertion of the CIPP is a simple preliminary step in these cases.