As municipalities face the growing challenge of aging infrastructure, trenchless technologies like cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) have become indispensable for efficient and minimally disruptive pipeline rehabilitation. However, the specialized language used in this field can be daunting. This glossary aims to demystify the key terms and concepts, helping you gain a clearer understanding of the technology that keeps our infrastructure running smoothly.
Key CIPP terms
Alphaliner
Alphaliner is Reline America’s proprietary ultraviolet light-cured, glass-reinforced pipe (UV GRP) liner. Known for its high flexural modulus, it provides a durable and resilient solution for pipeline rehabilitation.
Cured-in-place pipe (CIPP)
Cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) is a trenchless rehabilitation method used to repair existing pipelines. A resin-saturated fiberglass tube is inverted or pulled into a damaged pipe and then cured with UV light to form a tight-fitting, jointless, and corrosion-resistant new pipe within the old one.
Curing
Curing is the process of hardening the resin within the CIPP liner, transforming it from a pliable material to a rigid structure. This can be achieved through various methods, including UV light, steam, or hot water.
Dynamic load
Dynamic load refers to forces that vary with time, such as traffic load or fluid flow within the pipe. CIPP liners must withstand dynamic loads to ensure the rehabilitated pipeline remains intact and functional under varying conditions.
Epoxy resin
Epoxy resin is a type of polymer used in CIPP processes for its resistance to chemicals and temperature extremes. It plays a crucial role in forming a durable, leak-proof liner.
Exothermal
Exothermal refers to a process that releases heat. In the context of CIPP, exothermal reactions occur during the curing of the resin, generating heat that helps accelerate the curing process.
Flexural modulus
Flexural modulus is a measure of a material’s stiffness when it is bent. In the context of CIPP, a high flexural modulus indicates a stiffer liner that better resists external pressures.
Folding conveyor
A folding conveyor is a piece of equipment used to transport and handle the CIPP liner during the installation process. It aids in the efficient and controlled placement of the liner into the host pipe.
Glass-reinforced pipe (GRP)
Glass-reinforced pipe (GRP) is a type of pipe reinforced with glass fibers for greater strength and durability.
Host pipe
The host pipe is the existing pipeline that is being rehabilitated using CIPP. The condition and material of the host pipe influence the selection of the liner and the installation method.
Inversion
Inversion is a technique used to insert the resin-saturated liner into the host pipe. The liner is turned inside out using water or air pressure, ensuring the resin side adheres to the interior surface of the old pipe.
Inner film
An inner film is used as an interior protective layer within the uncured liner to protect the resin from hazards and the environment within the host pipe. It also acts as a guide to limit the liner expansion during the inflation process.
ISO
ISO stands for the International Organization for Standardization, which develops and publishes international standards. ISO certification signifies that CIPP processes meet global quality and safety standards.
Light train
A light train is a series of UV lamps used to cure the resin in UV CIPP liners. It travels through the liner, emitting UV light that hardens the resin and creates a durable, long-lasting pipe.
Liner
A liner in CIPP is the resin-saturated tube that is inserted into the existing pipeline. Once cured, it forms a new, seamless pipe within the old one, restoring the structural integrity and functionality of the pipeline.
Load capacity
Load capacity denotes the maximum load a CIPP liner can support without failure. This includes both static and dynamic loads.
Nonwoven
Nonwoven materials are used in CIPP liners for their durability and flexibility. These materials provide a uniform structure that supports the resin.
Outer film
An outer film is the protective layer on the exterior of a CIPP liner that prevents damage during handling and installation.
Psi
Psi stands for pounds per square inch, a unit of pressure. It is used to measure the pressure applied during the CIPP installation and curing processes.
Resin
Resin is a synthetic polymer that acts as a binding agent in UV GRP liners. When exposed to ultraviolet light, resin undergoes a curing process, hardening to help form a strong, durable liner.
Seamless
A seamless CIPP liner is one that has no joints or seams, providing a continuous, uniform structure. This minimizes weak points and enhances the liner’s strength and durability.
Spirally wound
Spirally wound refers to a method of manufacturing CIPP liners where the material is wound in a spiral pattern. This technique can improve the flexibility and strength of the liner.
Static load
Static load denotes the constant forces exerted on a pipeline, such as soil pressure or water weight. CIPP liners must be designed to withstand these loads to maintain the structural integrity of the rehabilitated pipe.
Steam curing
Steam curing is a process that uses steam to harden the resin in a CIPP liner.
Tensile strength
Tensile strength is the maximum stress a material can withstand while being stretched or pulled before breaking. In CIPP liners, high tensile strength is key for the durability and reliability of the rehabilitated pipe.
Thermosetting
Thermosetting refers to materials, like certain resins, that harden when heated and do not soften upon reheating.
Trenchless technology
Trenchless technology encompasses methods for installing or rehabilitating pipelines without extensive excavation.
Ultraviolet light-cured, glass-reinforced pipe (UV GRP)
Ultraviolet light-cured, glass-reinforced pipe (UV GRP) is a type of CIPP liner cured using ultraviolet light. This method provides rapid curing and high-strength results, making it ideal for demanding applications where speed and reliability are crucial.
Wall thickness
Wall thickness indicates the thickness of the CIPP liner. Adequate wall thickness is important for the liner’s structural integrity and ability to withstand internal and external pressures.
Understanding CIPP’s complexities
Understanding CIPP terminology is essential for anyone involved in pipeline rehabilitation. These terms represent the foundational concepts and processes that make trenchless rehabilitation an effective and reliable solution for maintaining critical infrastructure. By familiarizing yourself with this glossary, you can better appreciate the complexities and innovations that define the world of CIPP technology.
[cta]To learn more about CIPP technology and its applications, visit RelineAmerica.com.[/cta]
