Cured-in-place pipe lining is among the fastest-growing segments of the plumbing and septic industry. While it is becoming more well-known in homes, it’s still a relatively new technology.
CIPP lining is faster and more convenient than other pipe repair and replacement methods because little to no digging is involved. Because of this and the affordable cost, trenchless pipe lining has become among the most attractive methods to repair pipes.
But where did it come from? How did it start? Let’s take a brief look into the history and uses of CIPP lining.
WHEN DID CIPP LINING START?
While there is some debate about the exact details, CIPP lining was invented in 1971 by Eric Wood in London, England. According to most accounts, Wood wanted to repair a water leak under his garage but didn’t want to have to tear up his garage floor to replace the pipe. Wood, an agricultural engineer, eventually applied for US patent number 4009063 in 1975.
The US Patent was granted on February 22, 1977.
According to trenchlesstechnology.com, “The first CIPP installation was a far cry from the technology, setup, and speed that are used today. Wood impregnated a felt tube with polyester resin, wrapped it in a plastic sheet, dragged it 230 ft into the 46-inch by 24-inch diameter egg-shaped, brick sewer, and inflated it with air. Then left it to cure ambiently — the pipe was fixed.”
This sewer is located in one of London’s Boroughs called Hackney. It is still in existence today.
While the materials and methods have evolved since the 1970s, the practice remains mostly as it did in 1971.
USES OF CIPP LINING
Along with sewers, trenchless pipe lining also works with culverts, storm drains, and pressure pipelines for gas, water, and liquid waste.
Modern CIPP lining processes work by placing liners with specific resins into the pipelines. The existing pipe is then treated while the resin inside cures. It is more environment-friendly, mess-free, and affordable this way.
Different techniques and materials are used to cure the liners depending on the project.
At SPT Ohio, we use an epoxy-saturated liner that is pulled into place through existing access points, and an internal rubber bladder is inflated, pressing the epoxy against the pipe wall. The epoxy cures in a few short hours, then the bladder is deflated and removed, leaving behind a clean, seamless “pipe within a pipe.”
Trenchless pipe lining is a cost-effective alternative to traditional excavation repair methods and pipe bursting, and it’s what SPT Ohio specializes in.
SPT Ohio can fix your sewer pipe problems without having to dig up your yard or add any new pipes. That’s right – no digging and no damage to your property.
No new pipes. No digging. No property damage. No problems. That’s innovation.
Give us a call today at 419-834-8366 or visit sptohio.com for your free consultation.