In-Place Pipe Restoration Eliminates Need for Replacement

April 1, 2007

Established in 1987, American Pipe Lining of San Diego, CA developed an in-place pipe restoration service using an epoxy pipe lining technology to restore aging potable, HVAC, and gray water piping systems in place, extending their useful lives at a fraction of the cost of pipe replacement.

The company began employing its epoxy lining technology as a sole contractor to the U.S. Navy aboard its carrier vessels. The ships' copper- nickel waste transfer and discharge piping systems were subjected to corrosive salt water and chemical environments on a daily basis, which deteriorated the piping only a few years after replacement. The company, with help from the Naval Research Laboratory, developed the epoxy system, and has completed pipe restoration on more than 14 aircraft carriers and surface fleet support vessels.

How it Works

Before the piping system is restored, it is inspected and spot repairs of worn joints and fittings are made. Valves are removed and their locations are fitted with unions or couplings temporarily. Water is drained from the system and air is introduced to find leaks.

The pipes are then dried with heated, conditioned air that distributes a non-toxic abrading agent through the piping to dislodge rust and corrosion buildup. The corrosion material is transported to an exit opening in the pipe, where it is collected in a cyclonic grit unit and secondary dust collection system. The waste corrosion product is non-toxic and disposed of without harm to the environment.

After cleaning, the pipe system is re-heated, and an air pressure leak test is performed before epoxy coating. Conditioned air distributes the epoxy lining through the pipe, and controlled air is sent through the pipe to enable curing of the epoxy, which occurs within 12 to 24 hours. After it is cured, the valves and fittings are returned, a final leak test is performed, and water quality, volume, and flow are tested. The result is a clean, rust-free, polished surface inside the piping.

Where it Stands

Following its success with the Navy and EPA approval of its coating, American Pipe Lining began providing inplace pipe restoration to companies with aging potable water systems and poor water quality, including housing developments, schools, hospitals, manufacturing facilities, and water utilities. The process can be used on a variety of pipes, including galvanized steel, copper, cast iron, black iron, and lead. It accommodates pipe sizes from 1/2" diameter to 8" in diameter, and in lengths from 10 feet to 1,000 feet.

Since the method uses a non-toxic coating and removed corrosion products do not require special handling for disposal, the system can be used safely inside buildings. The coating used in potable water applications has a rated life of 35 to 50 years under normal use. Building and ground demolition is not necessary with inplace restoration, and downtime and related losses to businesses are significantly reduced since pipe restoration typically is completed in two to three days.

More Information

For more information on American Pipe Lining's in-place pipe restoration service, visit http://info.hotims.com/10966-517.

---

---