When it comes to commercial infrastructure maintenance and repair, innovation continues to play a vital role in minimizing disruption and preserving the environment. One such approach is trenchless pipeline repair, a method frequently applied by Muller, Inc. for commercial projects. While cutting-edge, the technique has been around for a few years already and has been instrumental in transforming the landscape of commercial pipe repair. So, how can trenchless technologies offer a streamlined and environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional excavation methods for commercial sewer and stormwater pipe repairs? Check out the guide produced by our in-house experts.
What is the Pipeline Repair Process?
First of all, a quick clarification before going any further. Trenchless sewer repair and pipeline repair refer to the same no-dig, non-invasive method used to fix damaged drain and sewer pipes.
Trenchless sewer repair is designed to address the challenges posed by aging and deteriorating commercial pipelines using relining methods. The process involves different steps in order to minimize disruption to the surrounding areas.
Firstly, experts at Muller, Inc. proceed to the sewer line inspection. This uses advanced technologies, including high-definition cameras, to evaluate the overall condition of the pipeline, assess the extent of the damage, and identify possible blockages or structural deficiencies. Our inspection equipment allows for accurate and detailed assessments that do not require excessive digging. More importantly, during this step, the CCTV pipe inspection team can identify the precise location where repair efforts need to be targeted. The targeted pipe is cleaned using sewer jetting equipment ahead of repair.
Secondly, the process requires minimal digging at the entry and exit points. This is completely different from traditional excavation repair methods that need to fully dig out the pipe for repair. With a trenchless sewer repair approach, the engineering team only requires small access points for the equipment and the tools to reach the pipeline. From a commercial perspective, the impact on the site is kept to a minimum.
Thirdly, depending on the extent of damage or the repair needs, our team can either use a technique called CIPP or pipe bursting.
CIPP, a cured-in-place pipe, is a pipeline repair method that involves creating a new pipe within the existing pipe. A flexible liner containing epoxy is installed in the targeted pipe. It is then cured in place using heat to speed up the process (or passively) until the epoxy hardens.
Pipe bursting, on the other hand, is used to simultaneously break an old pipe and replace it with a new one. This method uses a bursting head, which, as it breaks the pipe from the inside, replaces it immediately with a new high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe.
What Are the Advantages of Trenchless Technology for Commercial Pipeline Repairs?
If you are still on the fence, there are many benefits to using a cured-in-place pipe repair process or pipe bursting method. As both methods are fully trenchless, they require practically no excavation at all.
Easy Access to Hard-to-Reach Places
Traditional pipe repair often requires full excavation, which can be difficult depending on the location of the pipe. For instance, pipes located under commercial structures in frequent use, such as under buildings or roadways, can be extremely hard to access as disruptions of this scale must be carefully organized.
On the other hand, trenchless repair eliminates the need for extensive digging, which means that even spots that would be hard to reach become more easily accessible and repairable without causing major disruptions to the community.
Less Destructive to the Environment
Trenchless sewer repair methods can significantly reduce the environmental impact of the repair process. This is especially important for pipes that are close to green spaces and other landscapes. Minimal digging means minimal soil disturbance and erosion, which instantly preserves the local ecosystems.
Pipeline Repair for Long-Lasting Results
The use of advanced materials, such as epoxy and HDPE, in trenchless repair enhances the durability and longevity of the pipeline system. When it comes to maintaining commercial infrastructure, this is a more sustainable solution that requires less maintenance work in the long term.
Scalable Trenchless Solution
Trenchless sewer repair is suitable for projects of different sizes, ranging from small commercial properties to large industrial sites. At Muller, Inc., we frequently adapt the method to meet the needs of the commercial structure at hand with the same successful results.
Time and Cost-Saving Repair
How much does it cost to replace old pipes? The traditional approach will need to include the cost of a similar pipe as well as the cost of excavation. However, with a trenchless sewer commercial repair method, the whole process is streamlined, reducing:
- Labor and equipment costs
- Downtime
- Material costs
- Associated expenses for disruption
The bottom line, cured-in-place pipe repair, and pipe bursting are two highly effective trenchless sewer and pipe repair approaches for commercial infrastructure. At Muller, Inc., we make it our priority to enhance your infrastructure with solutions that tick all the boxes. To learn more about Muller, Inc.’s pipe repair and installation services, call us at 703-560-4040 or contact us on our website.