Pipeline Rehabilitation Insights

Technical articles on trenchless repair methods, municipal standards, and commercial infrastructure in Canada.

Cured-in-place pipe lining installation
March 12, 2025

CIPP Lining for Commercial Sewer Mains: Design Life and Structural Limits

This article examines the engineering parameters behind cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) liners for commercial sewer mains in Canadian cities. It covers ASTM F1216 design thickness calculations, the effect of existing pipe ovality on liner performance, and real-world constraints like bypass pumping logistics in occupied buildings. A case study from a Vancouver office tower shows how a 6 mm liner restored a 50-year-old cast-iron line without tenant relocation.

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HDPE slip-lining pipe section
February 28, 2025

Slip-Lining vs. CIPP: Choosing the Right Trenchless Method for Industrial Storm Drains

A practical comparison of slip-lining with HDPE pipe and CIPP for rehabilitating large-diameter storm drains under active industrial yards. The article discusses flow capacity retention, joint integrity under heavy truck loads, and installation speed differences. It includes a decision framework based on pipe diameter, access constraints, and hydraulic requirements from the Ontario Building Code.

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Epoxy lining application on water pipe
February 10, 2025

Spray-Applied Epoxy Linings for Potable Water Mains: Certification and Field Application

This article covers the NSF/ANSI 61 certification requirements for epoxy linings used in drinking water systems, surface preparation standards per AWWA C620, and application thickness tolerances. It describes a field project where a 6-inch ductile iron main in a Calgary mixed-use building was lined in three phases to maintain water service. Post-lining water quality test results and pressure recovery data are included.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Trenchless Pipeline Rehabilitation

Clear answers to common questions about our municipal and commercial infrastructure repair services, based on Canadian civil engineering standards.

What is trenchless pipeline rehabilitation and how does it work?

Trenchless rehabilitation repairs underground pipes without digging a trench. Methods like cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining, slip-lining, and spray-applied epoxy lining restore structural integrity and flow capacity from inside the existing pipe. Access is made through small entry pits, so landscaping, roads, and building foundations stay intact. The process follows CSA and ASTM standards for municipal and commercial applications.

How long does a typical CIPP lining project take for a commercial building?

A standard CIPP lining for a commercial sewer main — roughly 100 to 300 metres — can be completed in two to four night shifts. Each shift includes cleaning, CCTV inspection, liner installation, curing, and final inspection. The exact timeline depends on pipe diameter, access constraints, and bypass pumping requirements. We schedule work to minimize disruption to tenants and operations.

Does trenchless rehabilitation work for water mains and storm drains?

Yes. Spray-applied epoxy lining is certified for potable water mains under NSF/ANSI 61 and restores water quality and pressure. For storm drains, slip-lining with HDPE pipe or structural CIPP liners handles high-flow and 100-year storm events. Each method is selected based on pipe material, condition, and design life requirements per Ontario Building Code and local municipal standards.

What certifications and standards do your crews follow?

All work complies with Canadian civil engineering standards including CSA, ASTM, and Ontario Building Code. Our installers hold NASSCO PACP and LACP certifications for pipeline assessment and lateral inspection. Epoxy materials are NSF/ANSI 61 certified for potable water. Every project includes CCTV pre- and post-inspection, hydrostatic testing, and a final report for municipal or insurance records.

How do you handle bypass pumping during repairs?

We design a temporary bypass system that keeps the building or facility fully operational throughout the rehabilitation. Pumps and hoses are routed through existing manholes or small surface connections. Flow is maintained 24/7, and the bypass is pressure-tested before any pipe work begins. Once the liner is installed and cured, the bypass is removed and the system is restored to normal service.

What is the design life of a structural CIPP liner?

A properly installed structural CIPP liner is designed for a 50-year service life. The liner thickness and resin formulation are calculated based on the existing pipe diameter, depth, soil load, and traffic loading. Post-installation testing verifies that the liner meets or exceeds the required structural capacity. This approach eliminates the need for dig-and-replace for decades.

Contact our engineering team for a project assessment →

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