Pipe relining is a no-dig, minimally disruptive technique for repairing damaged pipes, often by installing a new pipe within an existing pipe. From a drain reline to PVC pipe relining, Time to Reline are experts. Here, we’ll break down some of the different techniques and key considerations so you can decide if plumbing relining is right for you.
How does pipe relining work?
When it comes to relining plumbing pipes, there are a number of approaches. Depending on the damage, the kind of pipe and the available access, Time to Reline can assess what exactly needs to be done. Here are some common repairs, and how they’re done:
Sectional Pipe Repair
This kind of repair will be utilised when most issues are located in just one section of the pipework –for example, a misaligned pipe or roots growing through an old inspection opening. A sectional pipe repair is completed by:
1. Installing a section of cured-in-place-pipe onto a tool long enough to cover the length of the repair.
2. Pulling it into place using ropes.
3. Checking with our industry-leading CCTV drainage cameras to ensure it’s in the right place.
4. Inflating the tool under high pressure to compress the relining materials and push the resin into the broken pipe or damaged joints.
5. Allowing the resin to cure.
6. Removing the tool and leaving a brand-new pipe inside the old one.
Inversion
Inversion is more suited to longer lengths of pipework, or sections of pipework that are inaccessible to rope. Using a large drum-type piece of equipment with air pressure as the installation medium, this repair is completed by:
- Rolling the liner onto an axle inside the drum, which turns as the liner is placed inside, creating a spiral formation.
- Pulling the liner through the “nose” of the drum, turning it inside out, and clamping it to the front piece of the drum.
- Applying air pressure to pull the liner from the centre, inverting it (resin facing out) as it slides through itself until fully inverted.
- Inverting a calibration hose through the centre of the liner to force it into the shape of the “host” pipe.
- Sealing the tube at the end with special knots and flat rope, then tying a rope and hose within the flat rope and dragging it to the furthest end from the relining drum.
- Replace the air with hot water through the hose until it returns to the drum. Circulate hot water until the liner is cured.
- Cooling the water back down to ensure the resin has fully set.
- Removing the calibration hose. The pipe is now ready for use with no additional waiting time.
If necessary, any junctions sealed by the liner will be reinstated using a state-of-the-art robotic cutter.
Satellite junction repair
A satellite junction repair is a specialist tool that requires a high level of precision. It is similar to a sectional pipe repair, but has an arm that inverts out once in place. It is used for a number of reasons – most commonly to seal two liners together. However, they can be installed alone to seal a root-infested opening, a common problem for many older clay junctions.
Why choose pipe lining over traditional methods like excavation?
· The strength of the host pipe and the new lining is over 10 times stronger than new PVC piping alone.
· The job can be completed faster than pipe excavation, and with minimal disruption to the surrounding area, including foundations, walls, landscaping, and vegetation.
· With less need for excavation and restoration, pipe relining can be more affordable than traditional methods. It also reduces labour costs and time.
· Many pipe relining solutions meet or exceed industry standards for safety and durability, ensuring a reliable repair that adheres to regulations.
Wondering about pipe or sewer relining? We provide a free service to inspect your sewer and stormwater lines. As long as the pipework is clear enough to get the information we need i.e. length, pipe diameter, number of junctions and bends, we can give you a competitive quote then and there. This quote is no obligation – meaning you won’t be pressured to sign anything.
We know our experience and expertise will shine through.
Is there a standard for relining materials and installations?
Yes! AS3500.2 stipulates what materials must be used and the correct lengths needed to repair broken pipework. Below is an extract that shows the standard of relining materials that must be installed. Materials should only be installed if watermarked and tested. Relining systems are tested together and should only be used as per manufacturers’ instructions.
F2 Liner
CIPP liners shall conform with WMTS-518. When measured in accordance with ISO 7685 for thermosets (CIPP), or with ISO 9969 for thermoplastics, the minimum ring stiffness of an unsupported structural liner for below-ground applications shall be 4 kN/m/m. For above-ground applications the minimum pipe stiffness of the unsupported liner shall be in accordance with the appropriate product specification.
Key things to remember when choosing a pipe relining provider:
When it comes to plumbing pipe relining, reviews of some basic aspects can make a significant difference.
- Ensure the products being installed have a WaterMark certification, indicating they meet Australian standards for plumbing.
- Verify that the resin and liner being used are approved to work together, ensuring a reliable and durable repair.
- Clarify exactly what part of the pipe is being repaired and the specific methods being used to understand the scope of the work.
- Request a video recording of the completed work for your personal records and future reference.
- Test the system after the relining is complete to ensure everything is functioning correctly. If it worked before the repair, it should work after.