During the pipe lining process, there are a number of steps that need to take place for a CIPP (Cured In Place Pipe) lining job to be successful. CIPP lining is a remarkable technology that provides a solution that doesn’t involve digging and replacing an old leaking or cracked pipe. The most critical part of the lining job as well as the most difficult part of rehabilitating older pipes is the cleaning process. The common denominator for a successful lining job starts with the right cleaning process and execution. If not done properly a liner could delaminate from the internal pipe, which is bad news for the property owner or manager. At the end of the day, a cleaning process has the potential to make or break a pipe lining job.
Overtime, pipe systems will have build up of debris, corrosion, toilet paper clogs, algae, and much more. It’s critical that debris, corrosion, or any kind of blockages are properly removed from the pipe system. Instead of using water to flush out a sanitary system, mechanical cleaning tools can be used for vertical pipe systems to eliminate the potential of flooding and a black water event. There are several tools used to mechanically clean – “fingers” can cut through the corrosion and hard debris on the pipe’s internal walls without cutting the pipe itself. The fingers are centered within the pipe while also rotating at different speeds, which can cut away the hard debris. This process of cleaning the inside of the pipe sets the stage for a successful adherence of the CIPP liner.
Full adhesion is the ultimate goal when lining any pipe from storm drains to sewer pipes. In addition to the 100% solid epoxy, the preparation process of cleaning the pipe system is critical for the success of the job. It’s a similar concept of using a sander to repaint a wooden chair. The sander will get rid of the rough spots so that the paint will eventually apply to the chair. The same concept holds true when cleaning a pipe system for a CIPP lining job. Full adhesion prevents water getting in between the pipe and the CIPP liner, which prevents the liner from slipping down from the damaged sections of the pipe. With this kind of cleaning process coupled with CIPP lining technology, allows for a long-term fix to against cracked or deteriorating pipe systems.