If you are having problems with piping systems, you could be thinking about expensive repairs or replacements. Perhaps you are facing some installation concerns with new pipe. In many cases, pipeline sliplining can provide the solution you are looking for and at a much lower cost than standard methods. Let’s look at the process, how it works and some of the many benefits it can provide.
What is Sliplining?
Sliplining refers to putting a special liner inside of a pipe. It is done without the need to dig up and replace the pipe and works well for many kinds of repairs. In some cases, it is used to enhance the structural stability of the pipe. The process works like this:
The original pipe is known as the host and the liner is the carrier. A machine pulls the carrier into the host until it is all the way in. Next, a seal is placed at the ends of the pipe. This method has been around for more than 60 years, but thanks to modern technology it is more efficient and cost effective than ever.
Modern Pipeline Sliplining
It is very important to seal the pipe being repaired. This could be a difficult process years ago. However, thanks to modern HDPE (high density polyethylene equipment, sealing is simple, easy and part of the installation process. The carrier pipe is squeezed down to a size slightly smaller than the inside diameter of the host pipe. It passes through a machine which reduces its size temporarily. After the carrier pipe is pulled all the way through, it then begins to swell inside so it forms a tight seal between original pipe and liner. The ends of the pipes are grouted for the best possible seal.
In order to be sure the liner stays clean and free of debris, a plug is placed over the end of the carrier pipe and remains there until after installation. Once installed, the liner can be trimmed off flush with the original pipe.
Benefits of Pipeline Sliplining
One of the most important benefits involves cost. For example, you can avoid the costs of excavation, old pipe removal, new pipe materials, installation costs and filling in the excavation. The entire process is done with the current pipe in place. Expensive downtime can also be avoided, because this process saves days, weeks or even months of downtime during replacement.
There are very few downsides of pipeline sliplining. You will have a smaller inside diameter and it may not be feasible with certain types of valves. However, it can be a great time and cost saver for many businesses today.
