Equipment and materials for pipe lining: buying guide

Are you looking for a reliable and long-lasting method to repair your damaged pipes? Have you heard of pipeline lining but do not fully understand what it is or know the tools required for its implementation?

This article aims to demystify pipeline lining by presenting its fundamentals and benefits. We will also explore the various equipment usable for this procedure. Whether you are a sanitation expert, a plumber, or simply a homeowner wishing to carry out repairs, you will find here all the essential information to obtain the right equipment and perform effective pipeline lining.

Understanding the basics of pipeline lining

Before deciding on the equipment needed for pipeline lining, it is essential to understand the basics of this technique and its benefits compared to conventional pipe repair methods.

What is pipeline lining?

Pipeline lining is a revolutionary approach to rehabilitate sewer and water pipes without having to dig large trenches. This method repairs damaged pipes from the inside using a special coating that adheres to the inner wall of existing pipes. This coating is usually a fiberglass liner impregnated with a curing resin (epoxy, polyester, or vinylester).

The liner is inserted into the pipe via a pneumatic or hydraulic device, then inflated and heated to take the shape of the conduit and create a new watertight and solid layer. Lining can be applied to pipes of various diameters (from 50 to 400 mm) and lengths (up to several hundred meters).

The benefits of lining for pipeline rehabilitation

Lining offers several advantages over traditional repair methods that often require digging up and replacing damaged pipes. These advantages include:

• A saving of time and money: by avoiding excavation and reconstruction work, which are both costly and time-consuming, lining significantly reduces the duration and cost of the project, usually completed within 1 to 2 days compared to several weeks for a full replacement.
• A reduction in nuisances: this method minimizes disturbances for residents and the environment, with no noise, dust, waste, or interruption of services such as water or electricity.
• An improvement in performance: lining increases the mechanical and chemical resistance of pipes, making them more robust, watertight, and durable. The smooth coating also improves water flow and quality.
• Health preservation: by avoiding contact of water with harmful materials such as lead or asbestos present in old pipes, lining reduces the risks of bacterial contamination or corrosion.

The different types of lining: CIPP, SIPP, etc.

There are various lining methods, differentiated by their application mode, the type of resin used, and the polymerization process. The most common are:

• CIPP (Cured-In-Place Pipe): this process involves inserting a liner impregnated with epoxy resin into the pipe, then curing it with steam or hot water. It is suitable for diameters from 50 to 1200 mm and lengths up to 500 meters.
• SIPP (Sprayed-In-Place Pipe): a more recent technique that sprays epoxy or polyester resin onto the pipe walls using a robot, suitable for diameters from 100 to 600 mm and lengths up to 200 meters.
• Spot repair: a solution to locally repair a damaged area without treating the entire pipe, by applying a fiberglass patch impregnated with epoxy resin, then curing it with an inflatable balloon.

Essential equipment for pipe lining

To ensure a successful pipe lining, it is essential to equip yourself adequately and efficiently. We will detail the essential equipment for each phase of lining, from preparation to finishing.

Preparation and inspection equipment

The first step is to check that the pipe is clean and in good condition. For this, it is necessary to use:

• A high-pressure water jet: essential for removing deposits, roots, grease, and other debris that could block or damage the pipe.
• An endoscopic camera: it allows examining the inside of the pipe and identifying cracks, breaks, deformations, and other anomalies requiring repair.
• Analysis software: it analyzes images taken by the camera to assess the dimensions, geometry, and slope of the pipe.

Lining equipment: injectors, resins, liners, and liners

After preparing the pipe, the next step is to apply the coating that will form the new lining. To do this, it is essential to use:

• An injector: it is used to insert the liner or resin into the pipe, using a pneumatic or hydraulic system.
• A resin: this material, which can be epoxy, polyester, or vinylester, will harden and adhere to the pipe wall, offering various resistance, sealing, and durability properties.
• A liner: made of fiberglass fabric impregnated with resin, it unfolds and adheres to the pipe wall. There are tubular liners, like liners, or flat ones, like patches.
• A liner: a flexible fiberglass tube impregnated with resin, which inflates and conforms to the shape of the pipeline. Liners can be cured by steam, hot water (CIPP), or UV (SIPP).

Curing technologies: steam, UV, and ambient curing

The applied coating must then be cured to become solid and resistant. For this, one can use:

• Steam: this method activates the resin's chemical reaction through the heat of steam. Fast and effective, it requires a steam generator and precise temperature control.
• UV: exposure to ultraviolet rays causes the resin to polymerize. Ecological and precise, this technique requires specific equipment and UV protection.
• Ambient curing: simpler and more economical, this method lets the coating dry in open air, although it is slower and less reliable than others.

Finishing equipment: cutting and milling robots

Finally, to complete the lining, certain finishes are necessary to ensure the optimal functioning of the pipeline. This involves the use of:

• A cutting robot: it cuts the coating at branch connections and openings using a rotary blade or a cutter.
• A milling robot: it smooths the coating and corrects defects such as folds, bubbles, or excess thickness using a cutter or a grinding wheel.

Choosing the right equipment: factors to consider

Understanding the benefits and principles of pipeline lining, as well as the different types of necessary equipment, is one thing. But how do you select the right equipment among the multitude of available options?

What criteria should be considered to make a wise investment? We will explore together the main factors to evaluate when choosing your pipeline lining equipment.

Quality and reliability of the equipment

Quality and reliability are paramount. Your equipment must guarantee high-quality lining without risk of failure. Here is what to check:

• Technology and performance: Opt for cutting-edge equipment that ensures precise application and consistent performance during lining.
• Robustness and durability: Select equipment designed to withstand harsh field conditions, requiring minimal maintenance and offering extended longevity.
• Reliability and safety: Choose equipment that is rigorously tested, compliant with the industry's high safety standards, backed by a solid warranty and quality after-sales service.

Compatibility with different types of pipelines

Compatibility of the equipment with various types of pipelines is also essential. Ensure that the equipment can adapt to the specific characteristics of the pipelines to be repaired:

• Diameter and length: Choose equipment capable of handling pipes of various diameters (from 50 to 1200 mm) and lengths (up to 500 meters).
• Geometry and slope: Opt for flexible equipment capable of adjusting to changes in direction, bends, branches, and other particularities.
• Material and condition: Select equipment capable of working with different materials (PVC, cast iron, Eternit, fiber cement, steel, etc.) and repairing various types of defects (cracks, breaks, deformations, etc.).

Technical support and training

The technical support and training offered by the supplier are essential. You must receive the necessary assistance to optimize the use of your equipment.

To check:

• Training: Ensure the supplier provides comprehensive and personalized training to familiarize you with the equipment, master the techniques, and solve common problems.
• Support: Choose a supplier offering responsive and effective technical support, capable of keeping your equipment in optimal condition, answering your questions, and intervening when needed.

Investment cost and profitability

Finally, investment cost and profitability are decisive criteria. Your equipment must enable profitable work, generating benefits and amortizing your investment.

Elements to compare:

• Purchase cost: Opt for equipment offering good value for money, suited to your budget, including delivery, installation, and commissioning fees.
• Operating cost: Favor equipment that minimizes operating costs (energy consumption, consumables, maintenance, repair).
• Production cost: Choose equipment that reduces intervention time, waste, and errors, while improving the quality, flow rate, and durability of the lining.
• Turnover: Select equipment that increases your capacity to complete more projects, retain your clients, and stand out from the competition.

Conclusion

This article introduced you to pipe lining, an advanced pipe renovation method that outperforms conventional techniques in terms of efficiency and benefits. You explored the various equipment needed to perform quality pipe lining and the essential criteria for choosing the right equipment.

If you are considering getting started with pipe lining, or if you want to improve your existing equipment, we are at your disposal. With over 20 years of experience in the field, we offer customized solutions that meet your specific requirements and budget. A comprehensive training program and top-notch technical support are also available to you.

 

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote.

 

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