Pipeline repair by lining: guide and costs

Faced with the need to renovate its drainage networks, France is turning to pipe lining. This innovative and minimally invasive repair technique offers an effective alternative to traditional methods. It ensures the durability of infrastructures without causing major construction work.

The process relies on the application of an epoxy resin, specifically formulated to adhere to the inside of the pipes. This creates a new internal layer that is both watertight and corrosion-resistant. Suitable for both wastewater and sewage networks, lining represents a major advancement in pipe repair. It not only extends the life of existing installations; it also reduces inconvenience for users.

What is pipeline lining?

Pipe lining represents a modern solution for rehabilitating sanitation networks, avoiding any form of excavation. This technique involves inserting a liner — generally made of fiberglass or felt impregnated with epoxy or polyester resin — into the damaged pipe. The resin is cured after placement, using a heating process or UV light. Thus, a new pipe is created inside the old one. This process is ideal for hard-to-access pipes, where traditional replacement would be costly or disruptive.

Compared to traditional approaches, lining stands out for its minimal intrusion and significant reduction in construction time and disturbances. Beyond its economic aspect, this method restores structural strength and extends the lifespan of pipes. It also optimizes flow inside the network, providing an effective response against corrosion, leaks, and intrusive roots.

In France, this practice has become standard for renovating wastewater pipes and valves. Adopted by municipalities and public service companies, it extends the life of infrastructures without the constraints of open-cut repairs. Lining is also popular for indoor pipes, offering owners and building managers a less intrusive alternative.

Basic principles of lining

The success of lining relies on several key steps. Initially, the condition of the pipes is thoroughly examined, often by video camera. This allows detecting defects and precisely organizing the intervention. Additionally, the pipeline is pre-cleaned to ensure optimal resin adhesion.

The next step involves impregnating the chosen liner with resin and inserting it into the pipeline. The method can vary: inflation to fit the internal walls or positioning by robots. Once cured, the resin forms a new resistant and waterproof pipe. This process adapts to various configurations, applying to specific segments or the entire pipeline, depending on the needs and project specifications.

The different types of lining

Various lining variants address specific situations. Spray lining, for example, uses a robot to apply the resin, suitable for varied diameters and spot repairs. Continuous lining, on the other hand, targets the renovation of long sections at once, a wise choice for extensive networks.

Partial lining, intended to repair specifically damaged areas with resin sleeves, allows targeted intervention. As for structural lining, it reinforces the pipeline, often used for pressurized or severely damaged pipes.

Each method has its advantages and meets different requirements. Lining specialists will assess the condition of your pipelines, the nature of the damage, and operational constraints to propose the most appropriate solution.

The repair process by lining

Evaluation and diagnosis

Evaluation and diagnosis play a fundamental role at the start of pipeline repair by lining. The affected pipelines are carefully inspected, usually via video cameras. This allows precise identification of damaged areas requiring intervention.

This initial inspection is followed by an in-depth analysis aimed at identifying the particular challenges of the project. The study includes examining the materials constituting the pipeline, identifying harmful substances such as asbestos, and assessing environmental conditions that may influence the lining process.

A detailed report is then written, including recommendations for the preparation and implementation of the lining. This document serves as an essential guide for the upcoming steps and ensures that all parties involved are informed about the planned work.

Pipeline preparation

Pipeline preparation is a crucial phase preceding lining. It involves thoroughly cleaning the pipeline to remove debris, deposits, and obstructions. High-pressure cleaning often proves essential, ensuring a clean internal surface ready to be lined.

After this cleaning, a complete drying is necessary to remove all traces of moisture. This ensures optimal adhesion of the resin during lining. In some cases, specific techniques such as hydro jetting may be required to properly prepare the surface.

Additional inspections, notably via video camera, may be necessary to confirm the complete removal of debris and the proper preparation of the surface for the lining application.

Lining process proper

At the heart of the repair, lining begins with the impregnation of a textile sleeve in specially selected resin, inserted into the pipeline. The choice of resin depends on its compatibility with the pipeline materials and its conditions of use.

Once the liner is installed, a curing process, often by steam or hot water, is initiated. The cured resin then forms a new solid and watertight internal layer, restoring the structural integrity of the pipeline and protecting it against future damage.

Lining is a non-invasive repair method, offering an economical and durable solution. It allows rehabilitating pipelines without the need for excavation or replacement, minimizing disruptions for users and the environment.

Post-repair quality control

After lining, a rigorous quality control is conducted to ensure a repair compliant with high standards. This involves leak tests, such as air and water tests, to ensure no leaks.

A visual or camera inspection is also carried out to assess the quality of the lining, confirming the absence of defects on the new resin layer. These examinations are vital to certify the success of the repair and the durability of the rehabilitated pipeline.

In conclusion, a final work report is produced, documenting the process, materials used, and quality control results. This report is a quality assurance and enhances transparency with the client.

Costs and factors influencing the price

Assessment of average costs

Choosing pipeline lining is a cost-effective approach compared to full replacement. Prices for a liner generally range from €250 to €350 per meter, while spray lining is between €150 and €250. These costs vary depending on the nature of the project and the materials used.

It should be kept in mind that these expenses cover both manual labor and materials, including initial procedures such as video inspection and cleaning. These preparatory phases are crucial to ensure good adhesion of the resin.

Custom quotes are recommended for an accurate assessment. Each situation being unique, it may reveal specific challenges impacting the final cost.

Factors affecting the cost of lining

Multiple factors can affect the cost of lining. Firstly, the length and diameter of the pipes determine the amount of material needed and the working time. Site accessibility and complexity, such as the presence of obstacles or the requirement to operate at height, also play a role.

The geographic area and access conditions influence the price. Costs can fluctuate depending on the location and the distance between the company and the site. The prior condition of the pipeline, the existence of connections, and the standards to be met are also to be considered.

Finally, the choice of material, between epoxy resin or polyester for example, directly influences the price. Each option has its own benefits and constraints, to be evaluated according to the specifics of the project.

Long-term profitability of lining compared to other repair methods

In the long run, lining often proves more advantageous than traditional repairs. Although its initial price may seem high, the robustness of the resins used ensures a longer lifespan than classic pipes.

This method reduces the need for future repairs or replacements, generating significant long-term savings. It also offers a marked financial advantage by limiting disruptions and indirect costs associated with conventional techniques.

In short, investing in lining is a smart decision to renew your pipelines. It is a sustainable solution protecting against deterioration and reducing the risk of future complications.

Conclusion

Pipeline lining marks a true evolution in the management of sanitation networks. This method, both economical, durable, and minimizing nuisances, stands as a real alternative to traditional approaches.

By adopting lining, you are making a strategic investment for the future of your infrastructures, ensuring their long-term durability. It's time to take action and embrace this innovation.

Don't wait any longer, choose lining to ensure the efficiency of your sanitation networks. Feel free to contact a specialist today to get an estimate and a quote tailored to your needs.

FAQ

What is pipeline lining?

Pipeline lining is an internal rehabilitation technique for conduits. It involves using a resin-saturated sleeve to reinforce their watertightness and strength.

How to line a pipeline?

This approach involves introducing a new internal lining, strong and waterproof, into the pipeline. It is applicable both on straight sections and on portions with bends, even up to 90 degrees.

How to repair a buried pipeline?

Repairing an underground pipeline can be done in two ways:

• Lining: this involves inserting a flexible sleeve coated with resin into the damaged pipeline, effectively creating a new watertight conduit.
• Bursting: this method destroys the old pipeline using special equipment, allowing a new pipe to be pulled through the debris.

Who can repair a pipeline?

A plumber is qualified to handle the repair or replacement of a pipeline. However, fixing a broken conduit requires the intervention of specialized technicians.