Sewer pipe lining, also known as cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining, is a trenchless repair method that creates a new pipe within the old damaged one, effectively rehabilitating the existing sewer line without extensive excavation.
The Process of Sewer Pipe Lining (CIPP)
This innovative technique involves inserting a flexible tube, saturated with a special resin, into the existing damaged pipe. The resin is then cured, forming a hard, smooth inner wall that functions as the new pipe.
Here's a breakdown of the typical steps involved:
- Inspection and Cleaning: The first step is usually a video inspection using a sewer camera to assess the damage and measure the pipe. The pipe is then thoroughly cleaned using hydro-jetting or other methods to remove debris, roots, and blockages, ensuring the liner can be inserted smoothly and bond properly.
- Liner Saturation: A flexible felt or fabric liner, cut to the appropriate length and diameter, is prepared. Using a special plastic bonding adhesive, the liner material is then saturated with a proprietary blend of solid epoxy resin that will ultimately form the new pipe inside of the damaged pipe. This saturation is often done on-site.
- Liner Insertion: The saturated liner is then inserted into the damaged sewer pipe. This can be done using various methods, such as:
- Inversion: The liner is inverted into the pipe using water or air pressure.
- Pull-in-Place: The liner is pulled into the pipe using a winch, and then inflated using air or water pressure.
- Curing: Once the liner is in place and pressing tightly against the walls of the old pipe, the resin needs to cure and harden. This is typically achieved using:
- Hot water or steam circulating through the liner (thermal curing).
- UV light pulled through the liner (UV curing).
The curing process solidifies the resin, creating a durable, seamless, and corrosion-resistant pipe within the old one.
- Final Inspection and Reconnection: After the liner has fully cured, the inflation device is removed. Any connections, such as branch lines from toilets or drains, that were covered by the liner are robotically cut open from the inside. A final video inspection is performed to ensure the new pipe is fully cured and all connections are open and flowing correctly.
Benefits of Pipe Lining
Choosing pipe lining offers several advantages over traditional dig-and-replace methods:
- Trenchless Technology: Minimizes or eliminates the need for disruptive digging in yards, driveways, and landscaping.
- Cost-Effective: Often less expensive than full pipe replacement, especially when considering restoration costs.
- Faster Repair: The process can often be completed in a day or less, compared to several days for excavation.
- Durable: The new liner is seamless, preventing root intrusion and leaks, and is resistant to corrosion.
- Improved Flow: The smooth inner surface of the new liner can improve wastewater flow.
When is Pipe Lining Used?
Pipe lining is a suitable solution for various pipe issues, including:
- Cracked or broken pipes
- Pipes with root intrusion
- Leaking joints
- Corroded pipes
- Preventative maintenance for aging pipes
It is important to note that pipe lining is typically used for structural issues and leaks, not for pipes that have collapsed or have severe offsets that prevent liner insertion.
