EP2867137A2 - Repair of pipes and pipelines - Google Patents

Repair of pipes and pipelines

Info

Publication number
EP2867137A2
EP2867137A2 EP13741812.5A EP13741812A EP2867137A2 EP 2867137 A2 EP2867137 A2 EP 2867137A2 EP 13741812 A EP13741812 A EP 13741812A EP 2867137 A2 EP2867137 A2 EP 2867137A2
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
sheath
bladder
patch
resin
pipe
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP13741812.5A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Mark Potter
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Source One Environmental Ltd
Original Assignee
Source One Environmental Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Source One Environmental Ltd filed Critical Source One Environmental Ltd
Publication of EP2867137A2 publication Critical patent/EP2867137A2/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D81/00—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
    • B65D81/32—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents for packaging two or more different materials which must be maintained separate prior to use in admixture
    • B65D81/3261—Flexible containers having several compartments
    • B65D81/3266—Flexible containers having several compartments separated by a common rupturable seal, a clip or other removable fastening device
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L55/00—Devices or appurtenances for use in, or in connection with, pipes or pipe systems
    • F16L55/16—Devices for covering leaks in pipes or hoses, e.g. hose-menders
    • F16L55/162—Devices for covering leaks in pipes or hoses, e.g. hose-menders from inside the pipe
    • F16L55/163—Devices for covering leaks in pipes or hoses, e.g. hose-menders from inside the pipe a ring, a band or a sleeve being pressed against the inner surface of the pipe
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L55/00—Devices or appurtenances for use in, or in connection with, pipes or pipe systems
    • F16L55/16—Devices for covering leaks in pipes or hoses, e.g. hose-menders
    • F16L55/162—Devices for covering leaks in pipes or hoses, e.g. hose-menders from inside the pipe
    • F16L55/165—Devices for covering leaks in pipes or hoses, e.g. hose-menders from inside the pipe a pipe or flexible liner being inserted in the damaged section
    • F16L55/1652—Devices for covering leaks in pipes or hoses, e.g. hose-menders from inside the pipe a pipe or flexible liner being inserted in the damaged section the flexible liner being pulled into the damaged section
    • F16L55/1654—Devices for covering leaks in pipes or hoses, e.g. hose-menders from inside the pipe a pipe or flexible liner being inserted in the damaged section the flexible liner being pulled into the damaged section and being inflated
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2203/00—Decoration means, markings, information elements, contents indicators
    • B65D2203/12—Audible, olfactory or visual signalling means

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to improvements in and in relation to the repair of pipes and pipelines.
  • a common technique for pipe repair involves impregnating a patch in the form of a tube of resin absorbent material with a curable synthetic resin.
  • the patch is then positioned on an inflatable bladder.
  • the bladder and patch can then be positioned within the pipe at the location where the repair is required. Inflation of the bladder then holds the impregnated patch against the walls of the pipe whilst the resin cures. Once the resin has cured, the resin and absorbent material forms a rigid watertight layer bonded to the interior of the pipe. In this way cracks or fractures of the pipe can be readily sealed.
  • the bladder and patch is inserted into the pipe at a convenient entry point some distance from the repair location.
  • the bladder and patch is pushed along the pipe by a wheeled crawler robot.
  • the robot may also be provided with a flexible cord carrying control cables and/or an air/water supply for inflating the bladder.
  • the distance travelled by the robot along the pipes is monitored, typically on the basis of wheel rotations or alternatively by use of other location tracking systems such as GPS or similar.
  • the time taken to move the impregnated material to the repair location can also vary from job to job.
  • the resin is typically comprised of two or more components that begin to cure on being mixed.
  • the time from initial mixing to full cure depends upon the temperature of the material.
  • the amount of time available to correctly locate the bladder and impregnated material at the repair site or the time required for holding the inflated bladder in position may vary both due to the initial temperature of the resin components and the ambient temperature of the site.
  • a resin container suitable for holding separately two components which when mixed provide a curable resin suitable for use in repairing a pipe
  • the container comprising: a single bag separated into two container sections by a removable sealing clip, the separate container sections each being provided with a temperature sensing means operable to respond to variations in the temperature of the resin components, container or container sections and an indicator means provided on the exterior of the container section operable to output an indication thereof.
  • a user can determine the curing timescale of the resin and thus whether the resin needs to be heated or cooled in order to effect the repair.
  • a container removes the need for separate component containers, measuring means or mixing means.
  • a method of repairing a pipe comprising the steps of: mixing a curable resin from two or more separate components; impregnating an absorbent patch with a curable resin; fitting the patch to a substantially cylindrical bladder; securing the patch to the main body of the bladder; inserting the impregnated patch and bladder into a pipe to be repaired; locating the impregnated patch and bladder at the desired repair site; and inflating the bladder so as to press the tube portion of the patch against the walls of the pipe, wherein the method includes the further steps of determining the temperatures of the resin components before mixing; and thereby determining the curing timescale for the resin and thus whether the resin needs to be heated or cooled in order to effect the repair.
  • the method may include the further step of determining the ambient temperature and using the detennined ambient temperature to determine the curing timescale for the resin and thus whether the resin needs to be heated or cooled in order to effect the repair.
  • the method may be carried out using a resin supplied in a container according to the first aspect of the present invention.
  • the method may include the step of removing the clip and kneading the bag to mix the resin.
  • the indicator means may comprise one or more areas of theraiochromatic material printed or otherwise disposed on to the substrate.
  • the theraiochromatic material may be a theraiochromatic ink and may be of the liquid crystal or leuco dye type.
  • the thermochromatic areas may be shaped or otherwise adapted to indicate their transition temperature.
  • the indicator means may further be provided with indications of the likely product lifespan or curing time. These indications may be in the form of a table.
  • the indicator means may be affixed to the container or container section by a suitable adhesive.
  • the temperature sensing means may comprise a probe projecting into the resin component and connected to the indicator means provided on the exterior of the container or container section.
  • the indicator means may comprise an alphanumeric display.
  • a protective sheath suitable for use when inserting and positioning apparatus for pipe repair of the type comprising an absorbent patch impregnated with a curable resin fitted around a substantially cylindrical inflatable bladder, the sheath comprising a tube provided with a series of eyelets around each open end, the eyelets at a first end being reinforced the eyelets at a second end not being reinforced.
  • a method of repairing a pipe comprising the steps of: mixing a curable resin from two separate components; impregnating an absorbent patch with a curable resin; fitting the patch to a substantially cylindrical bladder; securing the patch to the main body of the bladder; placing a protective sheath around the patch and bladder, the sheath comprising a tube provided with a series of eyelets around each open end, the eyelets at a first end being reinforced and the eyelets at a second end not being reinforced; inserting the sheath, impregnated patch and bladder into a pipe to be repaired; locating the impregnated patch and bladder at the desired repair site; removing the sheath from the impregnated patch and bladder; and inflating the bladder so as to press the tube portion of the patch against the walls of the pipe.
  • a sheath of this type can be readily placed over a patch and bladder for insertion into a pipe and readily removed from said patch and bladder when the patch is positioned at the repair site.
  • the sheath can provide protection from contamination of the pipe and/or the resin during the insertion of the bladder and patch into the pipe.
  • the sheath and method of the third and fourth aspects of the present invention may include any or all features of the first and second aspects of the present invention, as desired or as appropriate.
  • the eyelets at the first end may be reinforced by bonding an additional layer of material to the sheath around the eyelets.
  • the additional layer may be comprised of the same material as the rest of the sheath or of a different material.
  • the sheath may be transparent or substantially transparent.
  • the sheath is formed from a plastic material such as polythene (polyethylene) or the like.
  • the sheath may be formed from a soluble material such as PVOH.
  • the step of placing the sheath over the impregnated patch and bladder may include threading a tie through the eyelets of the second end of the sheath; and tightening said tie to secure the sheath to the bladder.
  • the tie may be a conventional cable tie but is preferably a soluble tie.
  • This step may further include attaching an elongate flexible member to the reinforced eyelets of the first end of the sheath.
  • the elongate flexible member may be directly passed through the reinforced eyelets or may be attached to a connector device which is itself passed through the reinforced eyelets.
  • a suitable elongate flexible member may be formed from string, rope, cord or the like.
  • a suitable connector device may comprise a hook, loop or karabiner.
  • the second end of the sheath is secured to the bladder beyond the patch.
  • the second end of the sheath is preferably secured over the end of the bladder that will be inserted into the pipe first.
  • the protective sheath may be provided with a number of ventilation apertures along its length. The ventilation apertures can enable the dissipation of heat from within the sheath thus maintaining the pre-determined working life and curing time.
  • the removal step may be achieved by pulling on the elongate flexible member attached to the eyelets of the first end of the sheath. Since the eyelets at the second end of the sheath are not reinforced, they will tear when sufficient force is applied by pulling on the elongate flexible member allowing the sheath to be released.
  • a method of repairing a pipe comprising the steps of: mixing a curable resin from two or more separate components; impregnating an absorbent patch with a curable resin; fitting the patch to a substantially cylindrical bladder; securing the patch to the main body of the bladder; inserting the impregnated patch and bladder into a pipe to be repaired; connecting the bladder to one or more flexible insertion rods; locating the impregnated patch and bladder at the desired repair site by pushing and/or pulling the bladder along the pipe using the one or more flexible insertion rods; and inflating the bladder so as to press the tube portion of the patch against the walls of the pipe.
  • the method of the firth aspect of the present invention may incorporate any or all aspects of the first, second, third and fourth aspects of the present invention, as desired or as appropriate.
  • the flexible insertion rods may be connected together end to end.
  • the flexible insertion rods may be formed from steel or other suitable metal or material.
  • one or more spring coils may be provided.
  • the spring coils may be connected between two rods. In this manner, particularly sharp bends in the pipeline may be negotiated more easily.
  • a spring coil may be provided between the end rod and the bladder. This facilitates insertion into a pipe from a manhole of restricted size.
  • the bladder may be adapted to be connected to the rods by way of a T-bar fitting or crank winding handle. This maintains a fixed orientation between the bladder and the rods.
  • the method may include the steps of connecting one or more such rods together. The method may then involve the further step of pushing the impregnated patch and bladder to the repair location using the rods.
  • Figure 1 is a schematic view of a pipe for repair
  • Figure 2 is an illustration of an apparatus for repairing the pipe of figure 1 according to the present invention
  • Figure 3 is an illustration of the apparatus of figure 2 in use to repair the pipe of figure 1 ;
  • FIG. 4 shows a resin container according to the present invention
  • Figure 5a is a schematic view of a sheath for use in the present invention.
  • Figure 5b shows the sheath of figure 5a in use in the present invention.
  • a pipe 1 having a fracture 3 for repair is shown.
  • a patch 10 of absorbent material is impregnated with curable resin.
  • the patch 10 may typically be comprised of a fibreglass and felt combination.
  • the curable resin may typically be a water-glass based polysilicate.
  • the patch 10 is then positioned on an inflatable bladder 20.
  • the bladder 20 and patch 10 can then be positioned at the fracture zone 3 where the repair is required. Inflation of the bladder 20 (figure 3) then holds the impregnated patch against the walls of the fracture zone 3 whilst the resin cures. Once the resin has cured, the resin and patch 10 form a rigid watertight layer bonded to the interior of the pipe 1.
  • the patch 10 is a tube or sheet wrapped to form a tube.
  • the tube portion 12 is adapted to fit the pipe 1 in the vicinity of the fracture 3.
  • the bladder 20 comprises an inflatable body 21.
  • the inflatable body 21 is substantially cylindrical and adapted to be inflated from a first circumference being significantly narrower than the corresponding pipe 1 to a second circumference at least equal to the circumference of the corresponding pipe 1 such that the patch 10 can be pressed against the fracture zone 3.
  • the patch 10 and bladder 20 are inserted into the primary pipe 1 and located adjacent to the lateral pipe 2.
  • the bladder 20 can be pushed along pipe 1 by means of one or more flexible insertion rods (not shown) formed from steel or other suitable metal connected together end to end.
  • the bladder 20 is connected to the rods by way of a T-bar fitting or crank winding handle (not shown).
  • one or more spring coils may be provided connected between two rods or between the end rod and the bladder. In this manner, particularly sharp bends in the pipeline may be negotiated more easily and may facilitate insertion into a pipe from a manhole of restricted size.
  • Wheels 23 allow the bladder 20 to move along pipe 1 with minimal resistance.
  • the bladder 20 is inflated.
  • One or more elongate flexible members may be attached to the bladder 20 to facilitate removal after deflation.
  • a sheath 40 may be provided.
  • the sheath as shown in figure 5a, comprises a substantially transparent plastic tube having reinforced eyelets 41 provided at a first end and unreinforced eyelets 42 provided at a second end.
  • a cable tie 43 (soluble or conventional) may be threaded through the eyelets 42 and then secured around an end 24 of the bladder 20 as is shown in figure 5b.
  • a karabiner 44 may be threaded through the reinforced eyelets 41.
  • a cord 45 can be connected to the karabiner 44.
  • FIG 4 a resin container 50 in the form of a bag is shown.
  • the bag has two sections 51, 52 separated by a sealing clip 53.
  • Each section 51, 52 contains a separate component of the resin. Once the clip 53 is removed, the two components can be mixed by kneading the bag 50.
  • the bag is additionally provided with temperatures sensing means 60.
  • the temperature sensing means 60 may comprise an indicator means 62. operable to respond to the temperature of the bag 50 and/or its contents.
  • the indicator means 62 may be directly reactive to the temperature of the bag 50.
  • the indicator means 62 may be provide with a probe 61 which passes through the bag into the resin component to provide a measure of the temperature of the component.
  • the indicator means 62 is retained on the bag 50 by a suitable adhesive.
  • the indicator means 62 comprise one or more areas of thermochromatic material printed or otherwise disposed on a substrate.
  • the thermochromatic areas may be shaped or otherwise adapted to indicate their transition temperature and hence the temperature of the resin components.
  • the user of the resin can thus check the temperature of the resin components using the temperature sensing means 50 and can separately check the ambient temperature. This will provide the user with an indication of the curing timescale for the resin and/or the overall life time of the resin.
  • a table of curing timescales for specified component and/or ambient temperatures can be provided on a label (not shown) placed on the bag.

Abstract

Turning now to figure 1, for repair is shown. In order to repair a pipe (1) having a fracture (3), a patch (10) of absorbent material is impregnated with curable resin and positioned on an inflatable bladder (20). The bladder (20) and patch (10) can then be positioned at the fracture zone (3) where the repair is required. Inflation of the bladder (20) holds the impregnated patch against the walls of the fracture (3) whilst the resin cures to form a rigid watertight layer bonded to the pipe (1). A sheath (40) may be provided around the patch (10). The sheath (40) is removed when the patch (10) is positioned correctly. The resin is supplied in a container (50) having two sections ((51), 52) each containing a separate component of the resin and separated by a sealing (clip 53). Once the clip (53) is removed, the two components can be mixed. The bag (50) is additionally provided with temperature sensing means (60) operable to respond to the temperature of the bag (50) and/or its contents. The user of the resin can thus check the temperature of the resin components using the temperature sensing means (60). This will provide the user with an indication of the curing timescale for the resin and/or the overall life time of the resin.

Description

Repair of Pipes and Pipelines
The present invention relates to improvements in and in relation to the repair of pipes and pipelines.
As pipes, in particular sewer or waste water pipes, age they can develop cracks or fractures. This can be due to the deterioration of the pipe material, wear from the load flowing within the pipe or movement of the ground within which the pipe runs. A common technique for pipe repair involves impregnating a patch in the form of a tube of resin absorbent material with a curable synthetic resin. The patch is then positioned on an inflatable bladder. The bladder and patch can then be positioned within the pipe at the location where the repair is required. Inflation of the bladder then holds the impregnated patch against the walls of the pipe whilst the resin cures. Once the resin has cured, the resin and absorbent material forms a rigid watertight layer bonded to the interior of the pipe. In this way cracks or fractures of the pipe can be readily sealed.
Commonly, the bladder and patch is inserted into the pipe at a convenient entry point some distance from the repair location. In order to reach the repair location, the bladder and patch is pushed along the pipe by a wheeled crawler robot. The robot may also be provided with a flexible cord carrying control cables and/or an air/water supply for inflating the bladder. In order to confirm the correct location has been reached before inflating the bladder, the distance travelled by the robot along the pipes is monitored, typically on the basis of wheel rotations or alternatively by use of other location tracking systems such as GPS or similar.
Whilst these techniques are well known and well understood, there are still some known difficulties. For instance, crawler robots are very expensive and the method of locating the robot by monitoring distance is not completely accurate, particularly where a pipe is curved and/or if the robot's wheels slip or slide along part of the pipe. Another issue is that during the passage along the pipe resin can be lost from the impregnated patch if the patch rubs along the pipe. This lost resin may contribute to a build up of material along the pipe and present a snagging hazard. Deposits of resin on the inside of the pipe may also hinder future pipe interior surveillance. Conversely, rubbing during travel can additionally or alternatively result in the resin picking up contamination or debris from within the pipe. This can have an impact on the bond achieved between the resin and the pipe as the resin cures. Potentially, sufficient contamination could compromise the integrity of the repair.
The time taken to move the impregnated material to the repair location can also vary from job to job. The resin is typically comprised of two or more components that begin to cure on being mixed. The time from initial mixing to full cure depends upon the temperature of the material. As such, the amount of time available to correctly locate the bladder and impregnated material at the repair site or the time required for holding the inflated bladder in position may vary both due to the initial temperature of the resin components and the ambient temperature of the site.
It is thus an object of the present invention to provide apparatus and methods that at least partially overcomes or alleviates the above problems.
According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a resin container suitable for holding separately two components, which when mixed provide a curable resin suitable for use in repairing a pipe, the container comprising: a single bag separated into two container sections by a removable sealing clip, the separate container sections each being provided with a temperature sensing means operable to respond to variations in the temperature of the resin components, container or container sections and an indicator means provided on the exterior of the container section operable to output an indication thereof.
In this manner, a user can determine the curing timescale of the resin and thus whether the resin needs to be heated or cooled in order to effect the repair. Beneficially, such a container removes the need for separate component containers, measuring means or mixing means.
According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of repairing a pipe, the method comprising the steps of: mixing a curable resin from two or more separate components; impregnating an absorbent patch with a curable resin; fitting the patch to a substantially cylindrical bladder; securing the patch to the main body of the bladder; inserting the impregnated patch and bladder into a pipe to be repaired; locating the impregnated patch and bladder at the desired repair site; and inflating the bladder so as to press the tube portion of the patch against the walls of the pipe, wherein the method includes the further steps of determining the temperatures of the resin components before mixing; and thereby determining the curing timescale for the resin and thus whether the resin needs to be heated or cooled in order to effect the repair.
The method may include the further step of determining the ambient temperature and using the detennined ambient temperature to determine the curing timescale for the resin and thus whether the resin needs to be heated or cooled in order to effect the repair. The method may be carried out using a resin supplied in a container according to the first aspect of the present invention. The method may include the step of removing the clip and kneading the bag to mix the resin.
The indicator means may comprise one or more areas of theraiochromatic material printed or otherwise disposed on to the substrate. The theraiochromatic material may be a theraiochromatic ink and may be of the liquid crystal or leuco dye type. The thermochromatic areas may be shaped or otherwise adapted to indicate their transition temperature. The indicator means may further be provided with indications of the likely product lifespan or curing time. These indications may be in the form of a table. The indicator means may be affixed to the container or container section by a suitable adhesive. In some embodiments, the temperature sensing means may comprise a probe projecting into the resin component and connected to the indicator means provided on the exterior of the container or container section.
In an alternative embodiment, the indicator means may comprise an alphanumeric display.
According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a protective sheath suitable for use when inserting and positioning apparatus for pipe repair of the type comprising an absorbent patch impregnated with a curable resin fitted around a substantially cylindrical inflatable bladder, the sheath comprising a tube provided with a series of eyelets around each open end, the eyelets at a first end being reinforced the eyelets at a second end not being reinforced.
According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of repairing a pipe, the method comprising the steps of: mixing a curable resin from two separate components; impregnating an absorbent patch with a curable resin; fitting the patch to a substantially cylindrical bladder; securing the patch to the main body of the bladder; placing a protective sheath around the patch and bladder, the sheath comprising a tube provided with a series of eyelets around each open end, the eyelets at a first end being reinforced and the eyelets at a second end not being reinforced; inserting the sheath, impregnated patch and bladder into a pipe to be repaired; locating the impregnated patch and bladder at the desired repair site; removing the sheath from the impregnated patch and bladder; and inflating the bladder so as to press the tube portion of the patch against the walls of the pipe.
A sheath of this type can be readily placed over a patch and bladder for insertion into a pipe and readily removed from said patch and bladder when the patch is positioned at the repair site. The sheath can provide protection from contamination of the pipe and/or the resin during the insertion of the bladder and patch into the pipe.
The sheath and method of the third and fourth aspects of the present invention may include any or all features of the first and second aspects of the present invention, as desired or as appropriate.
The eyelets at the first end may be reinforced by bonding an additional layer of material to the sheath around the eyelets. The additional layer may be comprised of the same material as the rest of the sheath or of a different material.
The sheath may be transparent or substantially transparent. Typically, the sheath is formed from a plastic material such as polythene (polyethylene) or the like. In some embodiments, the sheath may be formed from a soluble material such as PVOH.
The step of placing the sheath over the impregnated patch and bladder may include threading a tie through the eyelets of the second end of the sheath; and tightening said tie to secure the sheath to the bladder. The tie may be a conventional cable tie but is preferably a soluble tie. This step may further include attaching an elongate flexible member to the reinforced eyelets of the first end of the sheath. The elongate flexible member may be directly passed through the reinforced eyelets or may be attached to a connector device which is itself passed through the reinforced eyelets. A suitable elongate flexible member may be formed from string, rope, cord or the like. A suitable connector device may comprise a hook, loop or karabiner.
Preferably, the second end of the sheath is secured to the bladder beyond the patch. The second end of the sheath is preferably secured over the end of the bladder that will be inserted into the pipe first. The protective sheath may be provided with a number of ventilation apertures along its length. The ventilation apertures can enable the dissipation of heat from within the sheath thus maintaining the pre-determined working life and curing time.
The removal step may be achieved by pulling on the elongate flexible member attached to the eyelets of the first end of the sheath. Since the eyelets at the second end of the sheath are not reinforced, they will tear when sufficient force is applied by pulling on the elongate flexible member allowing the sheath to be released.
According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of repairing a pipe, the method comprising the steps of: mixing a curable resin from two or more separate components; impregnating an absorbent patch with a curable resin; fitting the patch to a substantially cylindrical bladder; securing the patch to the main body of the bladder; inserting the impregnated patch and bladder into a pipe to be repaired; connecting the bladder to one or more flexible insertion rods; locating the impregnated patch and bladder at the desired repair site by pushing and/or pulling the bladder along the pipe using the one or more flexible insertion rods; and inflating the bladder so as to press the tube portion of the patch against the walls of the pipe.
Using flexible insertion rods in this manner is simpler and more reliable than the prior art technique of using crawler robots.
The method of the firth aspect of the present invention may incorporate any or all aspects of the first, second, third and fourth aspects of the present invention, as desired or as appropriate.
The flexible insertion rods may be connected together end to end. The flexible insertion rods may be formed from steel or other suitable metal or material. In addition to flexible insertion rods one or more spring coils may be provided. The spring coils may be connected between two rods. In this manner, particularly sharp bends in the pipeline may be negotiated more easily. In particular, a spring coil may be provided between the end rod and the bladder. This facilitates insertion into a pipe from a manhole of restricted size.
The bladder may be adapted to be connected to the rods by way of a T-bar fitting or crank winding handle. This maintains a fixed orientation between the bladder and the rods. In such embodiments, the method may include the steps of connecting one or more such rods together. The method may then involve the further step of pushing the impregnated patch and bladder to the repair location using the rods.
In order that the invention is more clearly understood it is described further below by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings:
Figure 1 is a schematic view of a pipe for repair; Figure 2 is an illustration of an apparatus for repairing the pipe of figure 1 according to the present invention;
Figure 3 is an illustration of the apparatus of figure 2 in use to repair the pipe of figure 1 ;
Figures 4 shows a resin container according to the present invention
Figure 5a is a schematic view of a sheath for use in the present invention; and
Figure 5b shows the sheath of figure 5a in use in the present invention.
Turning now to figure 1, a pipe 1 having a fracture 3 for repair is shown. In order to repair fractures of this type, a patch 10 of absorbent material is impregnated with curable resin. The patch 10 may typically be comprised of a fibreglass and felt combination. The curable resin may typically be a water-glass based polysilicate.
The patch 10 is then positioned on an inflatable bladder 20. The bladder 20 and patch 10 can then be positioned at the fracture zone 3 where the repair is required. Inflation of the bladder 20 (figure 3) then holds the impregnated patch against the walls of the fracture zone 3 whilst the resin cures. Once the resin has cured, the resin and patch 10 form a rigid watertight layer bonded to the interior of the pipe 1.
In the present invention, as is shown in figure 2, the patch 10 is a tube or sheet wrapped to form a tube. The tube portion 12 is adapted to fit the pipe 1 in the vicinity of the fracture 3.
The bladder 20 comprises an inflatable body 21. The inflatable body 21 is substantially cylindrical and adapted to be inflated from a first circumference being significantly narrower than the corresponding pipe 1 to a second circumference at least equal to the circumference of the corresponding pipe 1 such that the patch 10 can be pressed against the fracture zone 3.
The patch 10 and bladder 20 are inserted into the primary pipe 1 and located adjacent to the lateral pipe 2. In the present invention, the bladder 20 can be pushed along pipe 1 by means of one or more flexible insertion rods (not shown) formed from steel or other suitable metal connected together end to end. The bladder 20 is connected to the rods by way of a T-bar fitting or crank winding handle (not shown).
In addition to flexible insertion rods one or more spring coils (not shown) may be provided connected between two rods or between the end rod and the bladder. In this manner, particularly sharp bends in the pipeline may be negotiated more easily and may facilitate insertion into a pipe from a manhole of restricted size.
Wheels 23 allow the bladder 20 to move along pipe 1 with minimal resistance.
Once the patch 10 is positioned adjacent to the fracture 3 the bladder 20 is inflated.
The inflation presses the patch 10 against the intersection 3. One or more elongate flexible members may be attached to the bladder 20 to facilitate removal after deflation.
In order to prevent unwanted contamination of the pipe 1 or resin by the patch 10 rubbing against the inside of the pipe 1 during insertion and travel, a sheath 40 may be provided. The sheath, as shown in figure 5a, comprises a substantially transparent plastic tube having reinforced eyelets 41 provided at a first end and unreinforced eyelets 42 provided at a second end. A cable tie 43 (soluble or conventional) may be threaded through the eyelets 42 and then secured around an end 24 of the bladder 20 as is shown in figure 5b. A karabiner 44 may be threaded through the reinforced eyelets 41. A cord 45 can be connected to the karabiner 44. Once the patch 10 is positioned and aligned correctly relative to the intersection 3, the sheath 40 can be removed by pulling on cord 45. Exerting sufficient force on the cord causes the eyelets 42 to tear and thus allows the sheath to be removed.
Turning now to figure 4, a resin container 50 in the form of a bag is shown. The bag has two sections 51, 52 separated by a sealing clip 53. Each section 51, 52 contains a separate component of the resin. Once the clip 53 is removed, the two components can be mixed by kneading the bag 50.
The bag is additionally provided with temperatures sensing means 60. The temperature sensing means 60 may comprise an indicator means 62. operable to respond to the temperature of the bag 50 and/or its contents. The indicator means 62 may be directly reactive to the temperature of the bag 50. Alternatively, the indicator means 62 may be provide with a probe 61 which passes through the bag into the resin component to provide a measure of the temperature of the component. The indicator means 62 is retained on the bag 50 by a suitable adhesive.
Typically the indicator means 62 comprise one or more areas of thermochromatic material printed or otherwise disposed on a substrate. The thermochromatic areas may be shaped or otherwise adapted to indicate their transition temperature and hence the temperature of the resin components.
The user of the resin can thus check the temperature of the resin components using the temperature sensing means 50 and can separately check the ambient temperature. This will provide the user with an indication of the curing timescale for the resin and/or the overall life time of the resin. In some embodiments, a table of curing timescales for specified component and/or ambient temperatures can be provided on a label (not shown) placed on the bag.
It is of course to be understood that the invention is not to be restricted to the details of the above embodiments which are described by way of example only.

Claims

Claims
1. A resin container suitable for holding separately two components, which when mixed provide a curable resin suitable for use in repairing a pipe, the container comprising: a single bag separated into two container sections by a removable sealing clip, the separate container sections each being provided with a temperature sensing means operable to respond to variations in the temperature of the resin components, container or container sections and an indicator means provided on the exterior of the container section operable to output an indication thereof.
2. A resin container as claimed in claim 1 wherein the indicator means comprise one or more areas of thermochromatic material printed or otherwise disposed on to a substrate.
3. A resin container as claimed in claim 2 wherein the thermochromatic areas are shaped or otherwise adapted to indicate their transition temperature.
4. A resin container as claimed in claim 2 or claim 3 wherein the thermochromatic material is a thermochromatic ink of the liquid crystal or leuco dye type.
5. A resin container as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the indicator means are further provided with indications of the likely product lifespan or curing time.
6. A resin container as claimed in claim 5 wherein the indications are in the form of a table.
7. A resin container as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the indicator means are affixed to the container by a suitable adhesive.
8. A resin container as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the temperature sensing means comprises a probe projecting into the resin component and connected to the indicator means provided on the exterior of the container or container section.
9. A resin container as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the indicator means comprise an alphanumeric display.
10. A method of repairing a pipe, the method comprising the steps of: mixing a curable resin from two separate components; impregnating an absorbent patch with a curable resin; fitting the patch to a substantially cylindrical bladder; securing the patch to the main body of the bladder; inserting the impregnated patch and bladder into a pipe to be repaired; locating the impregnated patch and bladder at the desired repair site; and inflating the bladder so as to press the tube portion of the patch against the walls of the pipe, wherein the method includes the further steps of determining the temperatures of the resin components before mixing; and thereby determining the curing timescale for the resin and thus whether the resin needs to be heated or cooled in order to effect the repair.
11. A method as claimed in claim 10 wherein the method is carried out using a resin supplied in a container according to any one of claims 1 to 9.
12. A method as claimed in claim 11 wherein the method includes the step of removing the clip and kneading the bag to mix the resin.
13. A method as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 12 wherein the method includes the further step of determining the ambient temperature and using the determined ambient temperature to determine the curing timescale for the resin and thus whether the resin needs to be heated or cooled in order to effect the repair.
14. A protective sheath suitable for use when inserting and positioning apparatus for pipe repair of the type comprising an absorbent patch impregnated with a curable resin fitted around a substantially cylindrical inflatable bladder, the sheath comprising a tube provided with a series of eyelets around each open end, the eyelets at a first end being reinforced the eyelets at a second end not being reinforced.
15. A sheath as claimed in claim 14 wherein the eyelets at the first end are reinforced by bonding an additional layer of material to the sheath around the eyelets.
16. A sheath as claimed in claim 15 wherein the additional layer is comprised of the same material as the rest of the sheath.
17. A sheath as claimed in claim 15 wherein the additional layer is comprised of a different material to the rest of the sheath.
18. A sheath as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 17 wherein the sheath is transparent or substantially transparent.
19. A sheath as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 18 wherein the sheath is formed from a plastic material.
20. A sheath as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 19 wherein the sheath is formed from a soluble material such as PVOH
21. A sheath as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 20 wherein a tie is threaded through the eyelets of the second end of the sheath and tightened to secure the sheath to the bladder.
22. A sheath as claimed in claim 21 wherein the cable tie is a conventional cable tie.
23. A sheath as claimed in claim 21 wherein the tie is a soluble tie.
24. A sheath as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 23 wherein an elongate flexible member is attached to the reinforced eyelets of the first end of the sheath.
25. A sheath as claimed in claim 24 wherein the elongate flexible member is directly passed through the reinforced eyelets.
26. A sheath as claimed in claim 24 wherein the elongate flexible member is attached to a connector device which is itself passed through the reinforced eyelets.
27. A sheath as claimed in any one of claims 24 to 26 wherein the elongate flexible member is a string, rope or cord.
28. A sheath as claimed in claim 27 wherein the connector device is a hook, loop or karabiner.
29. A sheath as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 28 wherein the second end of the sheath is secured over the end of the bladder that will be inserted into the pipe first.
30. A sheath as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 29 wherein the protective sheath is provided with a number of ventilation apertures along its length
31. A method of repairing a pipe, the method comprising the steps of: mixing a curable resin from two separate components; impregnating an absorbent patch with a curable resin; fitting the patch to a substantially cylindrical bladder; securing the patch to the main body of the bladder; placing a protective sheath around the patch and bladder, the sheath comprising a tube provided with a series of eyelets around each open end, the eyelets at a first end being reinforced and the eyelets at a second end not being reinforced; inserting the sheath, impregnated patch and bladder into a pipe to be repaired; locating the impregnated patch and bladder at the desired repair site; removing the sheath from the impregnated patch and bladder; and inflating the bladder so as to press the tube portion of the patch against the walls of the pipe.
32. . A method as claimed in claim 31 wherein the step of placing the sheath over the impregnated patch and bladder includes threading a tie through the eyelets of the second end of the sheath; and tightening said tie to secure the sheath to the bladder.
33. A method as claimed in claim 31 or claim 32 wherein this step further includes attaching an elongate flexible member to the reinforced eyelets of the first end of the sheath.
34. A method as claimed in any one of claims 31 to 33 wherein the removal step is achieved by pulling on the elongate flexible member attached to the eyelets of the first end of the sheath.
35. A method of repairing a pipe, the method comprising the steps of: mixing a curable resin from two separate components; impregnating an absorbent patch with a curable resin; fitting the patch to a substantially cylindrical bladder; securing the patch to the main body of the bladder;; inserting the impregnated patch and bladder into a pipe to be repaired; connecting the bladder to one or more flexible insertion rods; locating the impregnated patch and bladder at the desired repair site by pushing and/or pulling the bladder along the pipe using the one or more flexible insertion rods; and inflating the bladder so as to press the tube portion of the patch against the walls of the pipe.
36. A method as claimed in claim 35 wherein the flexible insertion rods are connected together end to end.
37. A method as claimed in claim 35 or claim 36 wherein the flexible insertion rods are formed from steel.
38. A method as claimed in any one of claims 35 to 37 wherem in addition to flexible insertion rods one or more spring coils are provided.
39. A method as claimed in claim 38 wherein the spring coils are connected between two rods.
40. A method as claimed in claim 38 or claim 39 wherein a spring coil is provided between the end rod and the bladder.
41. A method as claimed in any one of claims 35 to 40 wherein the bladder is adapted to be connected to the rods by way of a T-bar fitting or crank handle winding device.
42. A method as claimed in any one of claims 35 to 41 wherein the method includes the steps of connecting one or more such rods together.
EP13741812.5A 2012-06-20 2013-06-18 Repair of pipes and pipelines Withdrawn EP2867137A2 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB201210926A GB2503248B (en) 2012-06-20 2012-06-20 Repair of pipes and pipelines
PCT/GB2013/051584 WO2013190283A2 (en) 2012-06-20 2013-06-18 Repair of pipes and pipelines

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EP2867137A2 true EP2867137A2 (en) 2015-05-06

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EP (1) EP2867137A2 (en)
AU (1) AU2013279090B2 (en)
GB (2) GB2514903B (en)
WO (1) WO2013190283A2 (en)

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
GB201406214D0 (en) 2014-05-21
AU2013279090B2 (en) 2016-10-27
GB2503248A (en) 2013-12-25
GB2514903B (en) 2015-07-01
WO2013190283A2 (en) 2013-12-27
GB201210926D0 (en) 2012-08-01
AU2013279090A1 (en) 2015-02-12
GB2503248B (en) 2014-10-22
WO2013190283A3 (en) 2014-04-17
GB2514903A (en) 2014-12-10

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