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 intrusive repair technique represents an effective alternative to traditional methods. It ensures the durability of infrastructures without requiring major works.

The process involves applying an epoxy resin, specifically formulated to bond to the inside of the pipes. This creates a new internal layer that is both waterproof and corrosion-resistant. Suitable for both wastewater and sewage networks, lining marks a major development in the field of pipe repair. It not only extends the life of existing installations; it also reduces inconvenience for users.

What is pipe lining?

Pipe lining is a modern solution for the rehabilitation of sewerage networks, avoiding any form of excavation. This technique involves inserting a sheath — usually made of fiberglass or felt impregnated with epoxy or polyester resin — into the damaged pipe. The resin is hardened after installation, using a heating process or UV rays. Thus, a new pipe is born inside the old one. This process is ideal for pipes that are difficult to access, where traditional replacement would be expensive or inconvenient.

Compared to traditional approaches, lining is distinguished by its minimal intrusion and a significant reduction in construction time and nuisances. In addition to its economic aspect, this method restores the structural solidity and extends the service life of the pipes. It also optimizes the flow inside the network, providing an effective response against corrosion, leaks, and intrusive roots.

In France, this practice has become established for the renovation of wastewater and valve pipes. Adopted by communities and public service companies, it allows the existence of infrastructures to be extended without the constraints of open-air repairs. Lining is also popular for interior pipes, offering owners and building managers a less intrusive alternative.

Basic Principles of Lining

The success of the lining is based on several key steps. Initially, the condition of the pipes is carefully examined, often by video camera. This allows defects to be detected and the intervention to be precisely organized. It should be added that the pipe is previously cleaned to ensure optimal adhesion of the resin.

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

The different types of lining

Various lining variants respond to specific situations. Spray lining, for example, uses a robot to apply the resin, suitable for various diameters and one-off repairs. Continuous lining aims to renovate long sections in one go, a wise choice for extended networks.

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

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

The process of repair by liner

Assessment and diagnosis

Assessment and diagnosis play a fundamental role at the beginning of pipe repair by lining. The affected pipes are first inspected thoroughly, usually via video cameras. This allows the precise identification of damaged areas requiring intervention.

This initial inspection is followed by a thorough analysis, aimed at identifying the specific challenges of the project. The study includes the examination of the materials constituting the pipeline, the identification of harmful substances such as asbestos, and an assessment of the environmental conditions that may influence the lining process.

A detailed report is then drawn up, including recommendations for the preparation and implementation of the lining. This document constitutes an essential guide for the steps to come and ensures that all parties involved are informed about the planned work.

Preparing the pipeline

Pipe preparation is a crucial phase prior to lining. This involves thoroughly cleaning the pipe to remove debris, deposits and blockages. High-pressure cleaning is often essential, ensuring a clean internal surface ready for lining.

After this cleaning, 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-cleaning may be necessary to adequately prepare the surface.

Additional inspections, including video camera inspection, may be necessary to confirm complete removal of debris and adequate surface preparation for coating application.

The actual lining process

At the heart of the repair, the lining begins with the impregnation of a textile sheath in specially selected resin, inserted into the pipe. The choice of resin is made according to its compatibility with the materials of the pipe and its conditions of use.

Once the liner is installed, a curing process, often using steam or hot water, is initiated. The cured resin then forms a new, strong, watertight inner layer, restoring the structural integrity of the pipe and protecting it from future damage.

Lining is a non-invasive repair method, offering a cost-effective and sustainable solution. It allows pipelines to be rehabilitated without the need for excavation or replacement, minimizing disruption to users and the environment.

Post-repair quality control

After lining, rigorous quality control is carried out to ensure the repair meets high standards. This involves leak testing, such as air and water testing, to ensure there are 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 attest to the success of the repair and the durability of the rehabilitated pipeline.

Finally, a completion report is produced, documenting the process, materials used and quality control results. This report is a quality assurance and reinforces transparency with the client.

Costs and factors influencing price

Average cost assessment

Opting for pipe lining is an economical approach compared to complete 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 is unique and may reveal specific challenges that impact the final cost.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Lining

Multiple factors can affect the cost of lining. First, the length and diameter of the conduits modulate 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 altitude, also play a role.

The geographical area and access conditions influence the price. Costs may fluctuate depending on the location and distance between the company and the site. The previous condition of the pipeline, the existence of connections and the standards to be respected 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 specificities of the project.

Long-term cost-effectiveness of liner compared to other repair methods

In the longer term, lining often proves to be more advantageous than traditional repairs. Although its initial price may seem high, the robustness of the resins used ensures a longer service life than conventional pipes.

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

In short, investing in lining is a smart decision to renew your pipes. It is a long-term solution that protects against deterioration and reduces the risk of future complications.

Conclusion

Pipe lining marks a real evolution in the management of sanitation networks. This method, which is both economical, sustainable and minimizes nuisances, is a real alternative to traditional approaches.

By adopting liners, you are making a strategic investment in the future of your infrastructure, ensuring its long-term sustainability. It is time to take action and embrace this innovation.

Don't delay, choose lining to ensure the efficiency of your sanitation networks. Don't hesitate to contact a specialist today to get an estimate and a quote tailored to your needs.

FAQ

What is a pipe lining?

Pipe lining is a technique for the internal rehabilitation of pipes. It involves the use of a sheath, saturated with resin, in order to reinforce the watertightness and solidity of the pipes.

How to line a pipe?

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

How to repair a buried pipe?

Repairing an underground pipeline can be done in two ways:

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

Who can repair a pipeline?

A plumber is able to take care of the repair or replacement of pipes. However, the rectification of a broken pipe requires the intervention of specialized technicians.