Pipe Relining Manly
Pipe Dive September
This month, we were called to investigate, diagnose and ultimately repair the troublesome sewer system using a combination of pipe relining techniques at a complex of townhouses situated close to the lovely, Little Manly beach.
The tenants of this split-level complex had been experiencing recurring drain blockages for some time and were in search of a long-term solution that didn’t cost, or move the earth – as avoiding excavation was essential due to the intricate, heavily landscaped common areas.
Tree roots had infiltrated the pipe system and were creating blockages at multiple sections of the sewer line. More critically, escaped wastewater had caused significant ground movement causing further issues for the plumbing system, impacting the structural integrity of the surrounding area.
Following our investigation, we identified a total of 25m of sewer line that had to be repaired, spanning 3 levels from a trapdoor to the boundary tap and Sydney Water’s connection. Due to the heavily landscaped area, access was extremely limited. This, in addition to the split-level nature of the property, meant that we had to split the reline into 3 phases, from top to bottom.
Why did you use both pull-in-place and inversion relining techniques?
When used correctly, different relining methods have unique benefits. This project required us to reline a considerable length of pipe, over 25m, but also required intricate and precise execution due to a series of junctions and level changes. This is why we combined the straight-line power and efficiency of inversion relining, with the high level of control and precision it allows.
Below is a little more about each method, so you can really start to understand what is going on down below.
The Pull-in-Place Method
The pull in place method can be thought of as the most traditional of the relining methods and as such, requires much less equipment to execute than more modern relining methods.
As per the name, it is executed by saturating a tube with EPOXY Resin and pulling it in place, relining the section of the damaged pipe. The nature of the process allows for excellent control and precision in more complex pipelines that may include multiple traps, bends or junctions.
Typically pull-in-place relining requires two access points to the damaged pipeline, enabling the tube to be inserted from one and pulled-in-place from the other. This may be a consideration depending on access and the total length of the pipe to be reined.
Due to its more analogue nature, this method can take a little longer to execute, however, it is very much the preferred method for intricate relining projects and is often used in tandem with other methods.
The Inversion Method
The Inversion Method requires a more substantial investment in specialised equipment than pull-in-place. However, this does not necessarily mean it is more expensive, but that it is utilised in different ways to solve different problems.
As opposed to pulling the new pipe in place, inversion relining utilises an inversion drum to feed the resin-saturated tube into the damaged pipe whilst turning it inside out, therefore inverting it within the structure of the old pipe and restoring its integrity. With enough air capacity, virtually any length of pipe can be relined.
Inversion relining can be conducted from a single opening, simply shooting the new pipe to a stopping point on either side of the damaged pipe. It is also a quicker method of relining, meaning that for long stretches of the regular pipeline, inversion is typically economical and preferred to pull-in-place.
However, when relining more complex pipelines, can cause issues and require extra work meaning more time and potential costs.
We’ve had a relationship with Ranelagh for over 15 years now. At first, they asked us to reline their nine-inch boundary trap. Since that time, we have relined most of their subsoil exterior drainage. Over time, the building realised that they were actually starting to develop issues with the cast iron stack drainage. Cast iron is now defunct material, and it actually rust from the inside out.
Some of the symptoms that the residents were experiencing in relation to the dilapidated cast iron network were smells, leaks, blockages, and in the most extreme case, flooding. It would have been best if we could actually move the residents out of the building. Because that was logistically impossible, we had to break down the project into individual length reline shots. We brought on our friends from Time to Reline, which enabled us to have two inversion teams and two junction robot teams doing two shots per day and also cutting out all the junctions as necessary. We were able to reline over a kilometre of drainage, do 800 cuts, and remove one and a half tonnes of metallic silt within a six-week time period.
“We’ve had a relationship with Ranelagh for over 15 years now”
If you’re a manager of a building that was built in the ’60s and ’70s, you will have cast iron sewer drainage. Sooner or later, this will leak, break, and cause major issues for the building. Now is the time to have a look at it and see if we can provide you a solution.
Our reputation supersedes any issues that the residence or building itself might actually have. No problem is too big or small. I’m extremely proud of this project. It’s the biggest residential project of its kind in Australia and possibly the world. It’s been a great opportunity not to showcase to the industry what our skills and capabilities are, but also to other building managers and committees alike in Sydney that are experiencing the same issues with cast iron pipe work.
Frequently Asked Pipe Relining Questions
The Advantages of Pipe Relining for Efficient Pipe Repairs
Pipe relining is a modern, trenchless method for repairing damaged or leaking pipes without the need for invasive excavation. This innovative technique involves inserting a flexible, resin-coated liner into the affected pipe, which is then inflated and cured to form a new, durable pipe within the existing one. The result is a seamless and corrosion-resistant pipe that not only restores the structural integrity of your plumbing system but also improves flow efficiency. By choosing Pipe Relining, you can extend the lifespan of your pipes, prevent future damage, and minimise the risk of costly repairs down the line.
Embracing Pipe Relining as a preferred solution for pipe repairs offers several benefits, including reduced costs, minimal disruptions, and enhanced environmental sustainability. Since there’s no need for large-scale digging, Pipe Relining helps you save up to 50% in repair expenses compared to traditional methods, while also reducing the time and resources required for the job. Furthermore, the trenchless nature of Pipe Relining significantly lessens the impact on your property and the surrounding environment, preserving your garden, landscaping, and infrastructure. By opting for Pipe Relining, you’re investing in a long-lasting, efficient, and eco-friendly solution for maintaining the health of your plumbing system.
