How pipe relining works: no dig, no mess, no fuss

Pipe relining process

Pipe relining is a seamless, straightforward answer to plumbing problems that can often get blown out of proportion. From small residential pipe problems, to large-scale commercial issues, pipe relining provides a solution that not only saves you money, but saves you the stress of an elongated, messy process.

Pipe relining origins   

Just like any successful business in today’s world – innovation is a non-negotiable. Over the last couple of decades, breakthroughs in the science and engineering fields have resulted in advanced and environmentally-friendly pipe repair technologies that Nuflow is now renowned for. This technology has made it possible for broken pipes to be repaired from the inside, eliminating the need to dig up and completely replace the affected pipes.  

Nuflow’s pipe relining methods 

Pipe relining, or “trenchless repairs”, involves old pipes being left in place while new pipes made from tough, durable composite resin materials are formed inside or around the existing pipes. Mitigating the need to excavate, dig or destroy, trenchless repair strategies like cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) relining means more cost-effective and convenient solutions for broken pipes, resulting in significantly less environmental impacts.  

The CIPP relining process

CIPP relining is one of the most popular ways to repair or rehabilitate pipes without digging and replacing. Essentially, advanced composite resin materials are inserted into failing pipes to repair damage, improve flow and extend the life of the pipe. For pipes that need structural strength (i.e. beneath roads or driveways), a liner infused with the resin is pulled into place before being cured into a cement-like structure.  

For non-structural pipes like water pipes in ceilings or walls, the resin is blown into the pipe to cure, forming a new pipe lining that will keep it strong and functioning well for years.  

These structural and non-structural relining methods are suitable for pipes carrying drinking water, waste and storm water, chemical (trade) applications, and grain, feed or sludge (industrial) applications.

At Nuflow, we understand that not all pipes are the same, which is why our pipe relining methods are tailored to suit each unique repair. We take into consideration the type of pipe, the climate, other environmental conditions, the operational needs of the client, and the built structures or services in the immediate area.

We use CCTV camera equipment to locate the problem area and where future pipe repair problems are likely to occur, providing you with a full discovery of the state of your pipes. We then use a variety of methods like water jetting and specialised plumbing tools to ensure your pipe is cleared and cleaned quickly and safely. Once your pipes are prepped, they’re ready to be relined with one of our four relining solutions:

Blueline®     

Our structural solution suited to non-pressure drainage applications like stormwater pipes, sewer pipes, trade waste pipes, and more. It’s super versatile, and allows for sectional relining of any pipe length. Learn more.

Ultraline®     

Our latest offering is a strong and lightweight fibreglass liner with an epoxy resin that is cured by an ultraviolet light train. The result is faster fixes and less time on site. We are currently using this technology for short patches on pipes of up to 150mm diameter, but we hope to be doing much larger projects soon.

Greenline®       

This is also a structural pipe restoration solution. It’s used for high pressure main pipes, asbestos cement, UPVC, copper pipes, steel pipes and potable water pipes. It complies to international standards for drinking water, with the ability to withstand long term pressure of up to 1800kpa. Learn more.

Sumoline®  

Our strongest CIIP relining system. It’s used on non-pressurised, built infrastructure with critical load bearing capacity, like bore storm water and sewer pipes, road and rail infrastructure, box culverts, and manholes. It can cure underwater, and will not shrink. Learn more.

The benefits of pipe relining vs replacing

From fixing leaks and preventing tree root intrusion, to stopping lead and other contaminates from leaching into water systems – the list of benefits goes on.

Pipe relining has a number of great structural and functional advantages. It’s suitable for situations where pipes have junctions, bends and transitions in diameter, while also possessing a number of convenience and environmental benefits. This includes eliminating the need for excavation or destruction that can cause damages, saving you a lot of time and money as well as saving the surrounding environment from disruption.

Most impressively, the pipe relining process leaves behind a final pipe that independent tests have shown has a greater strength and flow rate than the original pipe, and any other materials that might have been used to replace it.     

Why you can rely on Nuflow relining 

We back our technology and our installers – that’s why our Nuflow relining products come with warranties of up to 50 years*. This tried and tested solution can be the difference between waiting weeks for your pipes to be fixed, versus mere days. So, if you’re looking for an efficient, cost effective and environmentally friendly alternative to completely replacing your pipes, you know who to call.

Click here for more information on Nuflow’s pipe relining solutions or get in touch with your local team today.

Latest news