FER-PAL has extensive experience in a variety of watermain trenchless technologies. As specialists in watermain rehabilitation, FER-PAL has used several methods to restore aging watermains of all shapes and sizes.
ALTRA Lead Solution: Expandable Pressure Pipe for Potable Service Lines
The ALTRA Lead Pipe Lining System is a non-invasive option for problematic underground water services. The ALTRA expandable pressure pipe forms a continuous barrier between existing pipe and drinking water – ideal for Lead Replacement Programs. It can be installed in steel, copper, plastic and lead pipes, and in lengths up to 300ft. ALTRA often only requires a single small access pit, saving yards, sidewalks, floors, and more, from demolition.
Technical Specifications:
- Designed for ½” to 2” internal diameter
- 300-foot sections
- Can negotiate 45° and long 90° bends
- Semi-structural, close fit Class B liner
- PET strength can withstand extreme pressures
- No TOC permeation or VOC emissions
- Acts as a barrier against contaminants
- Compatible with any type of potable cold water service
Certifications:
- Designed according to ISO standards
- Certified to NSF Standard 61
Cement Mortor Lining & Other Non-Structural Spray-in-Place Linings
Cement Mortor Lining was one of the earliest technologies used to rehabilitate aging watermains. This technology utilizes a cement mortar coating that is applied on the wall off the pipe to prevent tuberculation from occurring within the inside of the pipe. While this technology does not structurally replace the pipe, it does help to extend its life by preventing further deterioration.
Similar to the purpose of Cement Mortor Lining, spray-in-place lining or SIPP utilizes an epoxy or polyuria to coat the inside of the watermain to prevent further deterioration.
Similar to the three phases used to install CIPP, Cement Mortar lining and SIPP are installed by removing all turbercules, and then a cement mortar lining is applied to the interior pipe walls.
Slip-Lining
Slip-lining involves the insertion of a new pipe into the inside of an existing pipe. The new pipe must be substantially smaller than the host pipe in order to allow enough space for the new pipe to be moved into position. The new pipe is typically made from PVC or HDPE as it allows for the product to be fused on-site before being inserted into the existing pipe.
While this technique is fairly simple in nature it is best done on pipes that are straight and do not contain water services. Each bend and water service will require an additional excavation leading to a project which is in turn, less trenchless. In addition, the annular space between the new pipe and the host pipe must be filled after the new pipe is installed. This is typically done by grouting the void.
Pipe Bursting
Pipe bursting allows the replacement of pipes such as cast iron, clay, non-reinforced concrete, acrylonitrile (ABS), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It can be used for size-for-size replacement or to increase the size of the existing pipeline. Pipe ranging from four inches to 36 inches in diameter have been burst and replaced using the pipe bursting method.
The pipe is connected to the expander with a polyethylene threaded pipe connection. The individual lengths of the replacement pipe are fused together using the butt-fusion method to provide a leak-proof joint. The fusing is accomplished by a fusion-trained technician.
