One of the many frequently asked questions that our technicians are asked is ‘how do I know that pipe relining will fix my broken pipes?’. This is reasonable question – pipes are, after all, out of sight. Until there’s a really obvious problem most people can’t tell that there’s a problem at all when it comes to pipes.
This article goes over the process of determining if pipe relining is the best option for your broken pipes, the materials and techniques we use and why we back our product with a 50-year warrantee.
Pipe inspection with camera footage
Nuflow technicians start by gathering basic building and plumbing related information including:
- Have there been any major plumbing upgrades through the years?
- What repairs seem to be recurring?
- Are there specific areas of the building where problems are more common?
- Are issues generally with potable water pipes that are under pressure or in drain pipes?
Our technicians then determine plumbing access points and use a camera to inspect your pipes. Using camera equipment enables us to identify cracks, build ups, blockage and potential areas where failures may occur. During this process our technicians take notes to compile a detailed report on your pipes’ overall condition, areas of specific concern, and whether Nuflow’s pipe relining service is a viable option. In some cases, pipe replacement may be necessary, especially in areas of severe deterioration.
We provide you with the footage and a full written report – so you know exactly what issues need to be addressed and how much repairs will cost.This inspection report is a valuable tool whether or not you decide to proceed with a major pipe reline or replacement program. It gives you an expert opinion on the condition of your pipes and can serve as a roadmap for future maintenance, repairs and upgrades. It will also provide better peace of mind.
The pipe relining process
Once you give us the go-ahead, we use high pressure water jets to clear the pipes in question and prepared them for relining. The process is then:
- A liner is impregnated with resin and constructed with a deflated bladder.
- The liner is inserted into the damaged pipe.
- Once in position, the bladder inflates and expands the liner to form the shape of the new pipe; this creates a new pipe/drain within the damaged pipe.
- The resin cures to form a permanent replacement pipe.
- The bladder is then removed to allow for immediate use of the pipe.
Our Blueline® product is suited to non-pressure applications (drainage) such as storm water pipes, sewer pipes, trade waste pipes, waste systems, vertical drain stacks, vent systems, sanitary systems, industrial pipes, chemical pipes etc. It’s a structural solution.
Relining pressurised pipes
For hot and cold potable water, grey water systems, compressed air systems, HVAC systems, Fire suppression systems, chemical piping, water mains (pressurised pipes), we use Redline® . This is a coating solution only and non structural.
The process of relining these pipes is slightly different:
- A pressure test is performed, followed by a ‘flow’ test to determine the flow rate and water pressure and the plumbing system is mapped out.
- The entire plumbing system is then drained and dried using dehumidified compressed air, then a safe abrading agent is blown through the pipes to remove any debris build up.
- Optimal internal pipe surface temperature is created and another air pressure leak test is done before conditioned air is used to evenly distribute the epoxy coating through the pipes.
- After the epoxy coating cures, new valves and hoses are installed to all fixtures.
- A final flow test is performed to confirm functionality.
Nuflow pipe relining materials and technique
Nuflow has been providing pipe lining systems internationally since 1998 and offers solutions for repairing both pressurised and drainage piping systems which makes us unique in the industry.
Our original ‘sleeve within a sleeve’ patented method has been expanded, making it stronger than ever and a second patent added to enable the method and materials to address pipe bends and other difficult areas with a safe, clean and durable epoxy lining.
Our technicians undertake extensive, ongoing training in our methods and materials.
Nuflow pipe relining safety standards
Nuflow’s patented pipe relining materials are manufactured in our own facilities within Australia and have been proven safe. Our epoxy lining passes the requirements of the AS/NZ 4020:2005 standard which governs materials and equipment used to handle drinking water. That means water passing through newly-lined pipes meets safe drinking water standards.
Our Redline® epoxy lining has an estimated life expectancy of 100 years and is certified as safe:
- AS/NZ 4020:2005 approval for potable pipes certified safe for drinking water.
- BS6920-1:2014 approved. Suitable for use in contact with water intended for human consumption.
- Water Regulations Advisory Scheme Ltd (WRAS) material approved.
- Watermark WMTS-511:2014 approved.
Our 50-year warranty
Nuflow offers a 50-year written warranty on our Blueline® pipe relining product.
Our Blueline® cured-in-place pipe lining (CIPP) product successfully passes independent testing against ASTM International Standards. We use the highest quality of manufactured materials to support and guarantee our written warranty.
In the years since Nuflow has been carrying out pipe relining in Australasia, very few warrantee repairs have been carried out – a testament to the product and method’s excellence.
For your peace of mind, book a pipe inspection and talk to a trained Nuflow technician about pipe relining. Visit our booking page or call us on 1800 683 569 within Australia or 0800 168 356 in New Zealand.
