Water infrastructure is under constant stress. To protect new water utilities and extend the life of existing infrastructure, municipalities are increasingly relying on internal spray-on linings. These linings are formulated to safeguard against corrosion, reinforce infrastructure, and prevent buildup formation. With a variety of spray-on liners available, choosing the best option begins with understanding their classification system.
The purpose and function of spray-on pipe linings
The American Water Works Association (AAWA) issued a structural classification of pressure linings. It references ASTM, ISO, NSF, and other standards. Below, we will discuss the four main classes of pressure pipe and where SIPP currently fits in.
SIPP linings have proven effective in their ability to extend the life of water infrastructure by safeguarding it against further deterioration. Depending on the condition of the piping, rehabilitative specialists can select a SIPP solution that’s rated to withstand hydraulics and operational requirements. The structural classification system was designed to ensure the proper SIPP solution for every application.
Breaking down liner classification
Generally, the greater the deterioration of the water infrastructure, the higher the grade of spray-on pipe lining required to remediate it. For example, Class I linings are largely preventive in their ability to reduce organic (FOG) buildups and tuberculation. Class IV linings are suitable for remediating complete pipe failure, where the substrate material is damaged beyond reasonable repair.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the various structural classifications of pipelines and their hallmark traits:
- Class I. These linings are nonstructural systems used primarily to protect the inner surface of the host pipe from corrosion and/or improve or maintain water quality. They are not meant to be used for sealing cracks or leaks, and are best suited for preventive use.
- Class II. This class is a semi structural lining designed to establish or maintain the hydrostatic integrity of the water infrastructure. Class II linings are suitable for bridging pinhole leaks and faulty joints. It is essential that these linings achieve good adhesion through proper preparation of the surface.
- Class III. These linings are semi structural and usually more rigid than Class II. They can be adhered to the host pipe but are not required to be adhered. Class III liners cannot withstand the long-term internal burst strength of the host pipe.
- Class IV. The strongest class of lining, Class IV is termed fully structural. They can meet both short-term and long-term hoop strength and negative pressures or surges independent of the host pipe. Very few products are approved as class 4. This is a focus for material manufacturing.
While the formulation will vary across different brands and manufacturers, the ability to meet the structural and hydrodynamic specifications of an application are what defines SIPP solutions. Choosing the right one means taking a critical assessment of the project.
How to choose the right SIPP solution
There’s no substitute for a professional eye when it comes to choosing the best SIPP solution for a water infrastructure remediation project. Consideration should be given to third-party product certification as well as the long-term history of the material being used under similar loads. An expert like Empipe will perform a thorough downhole analysis of the water infrastructure, identify key areas of concern, determine the nature and severity of the degradation, and select the best spray-on liner for the job.
The combination of a well-chosen spray-on pipe lining and expert application nets municipalities big benefits for protecting and improving their water infrastructure. Precision application not only protects pipes from corrosion, buildups, and failure, it also expedites the time to a solution and ensures a lasting remediation without the need for invasive trenching and infrastructure replacement. The result is saved taxpayer dollars and fewer headaches caused by overworked infrastructure.
To learn more about the benefits of internal spray-on pipe liners, visit empipe.ca.