INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY

CARBON FIBER Reinforcement SLEEVING

One of PPM’s most innovative trenchless techniques is the use of using Carbon Fiber Structural Reinforcement Sleeves (SRS) to secure the integrity of damaged pipelines. High strength carbon fiber material in the form of a “sleeve” is inserted robotically into the pipeline.  Carbon fiber is light, with high-tensile strength, high temperature tolerance, and low thermal expansion, properties which make carbon fiber ideal in diverse applications, from aerospace and engineering, to motorsports and sailing.  

PPM’s robotic devices and method of installing carbon fiber sleeves, have been part of our ongoing effort to improve the efficiency of CIPL.  The proprietary process was developed in 2011 and is used effectively to reinforce bridge abutments, reinforce corroded high-pressure gas mains, and to span gaps in pipelines (for example, where drip pot standpipes must be removed). PPM can design, develop and test custom robotics to install carbon fiber sleeves in pipelines safely and effectively.  Robotics with extendable reach features can cut away the existing drip standpipes, allowing the carbon fiber sleeve to create a “bridge” across the drip cavity. The carbon fiber bridge allows for seamless lining without incurring costs for unnecessary and costly excavations.

Heat shield [heatech]

Pipeline restoration faces a special challenge when pipelines are in close proximity to steam pipelines. In the event of a catastrophic break, one nearby steam pipeline can radiate enough heat to affect the strength of the bonding and the overall integrity of a CIPL lined pipe. To address the risks of a steam main break, PPM developed a Heat Shield technology and conducted significant testing in combination with Con Edison and Cornell University. PPM’s internal heat shield material is placed within the pipeline prior to lining and curing. The heat shield protects the liner from extreme temperatures as high as a constant 400°F during a possible catastrophic steam pipeline break. The process prioritizes public safety and makes critical industries such as nuclear plants and municipal gas companies safer.   

A recent test simulated a slow leaking steam main generating heat (not to exceed 400°F)  directed at an internally protected lined gas main. The baseline parameters of the project determined that the liner/adhesive experiences integrity and longevity loss at temperatures greater than 125°F over time. The greater the temperature, the shorter the expected life span.  

The Heatech solution shields the liner from experiencing the high temperatures, keeping the liner safe even in the event of a catastrophic steam main break.  The end user benefits from the cured-in-place lining technology with the heat shield technology on existing gas mains. Costly replacement with full line excavations is no longer the only solution.