Development of a Renewed Approach to Internal Reinstatement of Services in CIPP Lined Water Mains

The use of lining water mains with cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) is growing in the marketplace. As the familiarity with the process increases, so does the need for a leak-tight reinstatement system. This paper will focus on advancements to the method of internal service reinstatement using a mechanical seal that is inserted into the service after lining. It is the evolution of a system where a hollow stainless-steel bolt was threaded into the opened service after lining. The concept was revisited with the cooperation of a robotics firm, resulting in a more effective mechanical insert and more effective tooling required to robotically install the insert. The system has undergone significant testing with respect to the ability to withstand vacuum, as well as the expected pressures in a water distribution system. Improvements include not only a more cost-effective and less time-consuming method, but also the ability to reinstate saddled connections from within the lined pipe and eliminate the reliance of bond or adhesion between the host pipe and liner.