JP4444829B2 - Conduit lining apparatus and method - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for lining ducts and other conduits. The invention also relates to a tube structure for use in this apparatus and method.

  The present invention is not particularly limited, and is particularly devised for lining the inside of a fluid flow conduit, and a gravity flow pipeline such as a sewage / rainwater drainage pipeline and a pressurized type such as a water / gas pipeline. It can be applied to both pipelines.

  The present invention does not contain any fluid in the pipe or prevents any ingress of fluid from outside the pipe due to various problems ranging from reduced hydraulic performance to partial or complete loss of structural integrity. It may be used to repair existing pipelines and other conduits that are in various degraded states that may or may not be possible. Furthermore, the present invention may be used to line existing pipelines and other conduits for the purpose of extending service life. Similarly, the present invention may be used to line new pipelines and other conduits for the purpose of extending service life in terms of service life.

  The lining may include a continuous layer applied within a duct or other conduit, or alternatively, one or more local layers.

  There are a number of pipelines around the world that are near the end of their lives, have already passed, are installed in very harsh environments, or are not installed correctly. As a result, pipelines are degraded to the point where remedial action is required to maintain their effectiveness or avoid leakage. This is especially true for urban infrastructures with pipe networks such as sewage pipes and water supply mains using materials such as porcelain clay (VC) and reinforced concrete (RC). Typical structural problems with such pipe networks include cracks and poor joints that can lead to water ingress, sewage leakage, route penetration, or limestone accumulation on the pipe walls. In addition, structural problems include a longitudinal crack and a circumferential crack in the pipe network, resulting in an elliptical or partial collapse of the pipe.

  The systems used to repair such conduits are generally divided into three categories. The first category involves conventional methods including manual application of liners and protective shotcrete, injection of grout material, and placement of thermoplastic liners. The second category includes placement of thermoplastic liners that automatically attach using materials such as uPVC and HDPE and covers that mechanically or thermally stretch the thermoplastic liner against the conduit wall. The third category typically involves the placement of thermally cured or catalyzed or UV radiant energy cured liners, which are pre-impregnated "socks" typically made of glass fiber material. Is typically placed by turning over. Modern systems use a resin coating on the surface of a flexible tube made of aligned polypropylene fibers. The resin on the surface, when turned over, is pushed into the side of the pipe, the purpose of which is to create a joining liner to the pipe. In fact, this does not result in an acceptable and consistent joining liner because the resin layer and thickness requirements, along with pipe holes and cracks, depend on other requirements for using resin in the pipe. is there.

  U.S. Pat. No. 4,687,677 (Jonasson) discloses one proposal for lining existing pipelines. This proposal involves introducing a flexible hose-like liner containing a curable plastic material into the lined pipeline. The flexible liner is introduced into the pipeline in an uncured state and pressed against the inside of the pipeline by compressed air. The flexible liner is then cured in place by exposing the curable thermoset resin material to radiant energy. WO 92/16784 (Lundmark) discloses a relatively similar proposal. In this latter proposal, a hose-like liner is introduced into the pipeline by drawing the liner or turning the liner over to the pipeline.

  One drawback of such a proposal with the installation of a liner that includes a curable resin material and is curable when exposed to radiant energy or heat is that it is under fully controlled conditions at a manufacturing facility remote from the installation site. After the liner has been manufactured, prepared, and stored, it must be transported to the installation site. In addition to transportation storage and handling costs associated with storing the liner, there are also losses caused by the early curing of the liner at the storage location. Furthermore, if early cure is not detected prior to installation, there is a cost in removing the defective liner and again starting to install a new liner. This can be a significant burden on the cost of pipelining work.

  Various proposals have been made to line a conduit that involves the installation of a liner as a tube with an inner layer of resin-absorbing material that is flipped over the lined passage and surrounded by a membrane. When the tube is turned inside out, an uncured resin is applied to the inside surface of the tube so as to impregnate the resin absorbent material layer that is subsequently applied to the surface of the passage. The inverted tube will be held in place by fluid pressure until the resin cures and forms a rigid lining on the passage surface. One such proposal is described in British Patent No. 1512035.

  In the case of a lining proposal involving turning over a tube with a resin absorbent material layer, it is most important to effectively impregnate the resin absorbent material. European Patent No. 0082212 is an attempt to address this need, and by applying a vacuum in the tube to remove air from the resin-absorbing material on the inside surface, this material is applied to the inside surface. By making it the optimal situation for accepting the resin, the resin to the absorbent material is effectively impregnated. However, this method, which outlines the application of vacuum to a tube, is a cumbersome technique that involves placing a vacuum pipe in the tube when it is in a folded state before being turned over.

  In addition, the resin is applied to the inside surface of the tube in the form of a large plug of uncured resin in a passage where back pressure is applied. This is used to support the resin plug and push the seal in the plug and pipe forward. As a result, the inverted tube needs to push the plug of uncured resin along the passage, and as a result, the plug of uncured resin can be under a high variable pressure. Problems can arise from the fact that the resin plug is under a highly variable uncontrolled pressure, and one problem is that the distribution of replenishment resin to the plug can be complicated. Furthermore, since there is no monitoring, the amount of resin and its consistency are unknown. In particular, there is no feedback to determine whether the amount collected between the inside-out tube and the seal is air or resin. Also, if the resin “plug” is not controlled, the air trapped in the resin volume is unable to escape.

  The present invention was developed in order to eliminate such background technology and the problems and difficulties associated therewith.

  References to prior art in this application are not and should not be construed as any form of recognition or suggestion that the prior art forms part of the general knowledge of Australia.

  According to a first aspect of the present invention, the flexible tube comprises a body configured to move stepwise along the conduit to attach the flexible tube to the inner surface, the flexible tube being inverted inside the conduit. And a device is provided for lining the inner surface of the conduit which provides a contact surface for the tube to act while the body is turned over.

  The inner surface may comprise an inner wall of the conduit or a substrate applied to the conduit.

  The flexible tube structure may be of any suitable form. In one arrangement, for example, it may be a unitary construction including a tubular element. Another arrangement may be, for example, a composite configuration that includes several layers.

  The body may be adapted to move along the conduit in any suitable manner, for example by applying a driving force. The driving force may include traction force exerted by the traction line, pressure exerted on the body by the tube being turned over (resulting from the inflation fluid present in the tube), or a combination thereof. If the body is made to move with pressure applied through the tube being turned over, it may be necessary to provide a deceleration force to control the forward speed of the body. The deceleration force may be applied in any suitable manner, such as a brake sled operably connected to the body and frictionally engaging the inner surface of the conduit.

  The contact surface preferably has means for delivering the reagent to the part of the tube that is being turned over.

  The means for delivering the reagent may comprise a plurality of ports on the contact surface, the ports being in communication with the reagent supply.

  The contact surface may be defined by a plate having an opening incorporating the port.

  The plate may be supported immovably or elastically.

  The reagent may contain a curable resin. If the curable resin is applied to the resin-absorbing material and is curable, it can provide a composite material that forms a rigid structure with such a material that provides a liner for lining the inner surface.

  The conduit may be lined continuously along the length of the longitudinal section, or at least along that length, or alternatively, may be lined at one or more local regions within the conduit. .

  If the inner surface of the conduit is continuously lined against its entire length or at least a longitudinal section of its length, the tube may contain a resin-absorbing material. The resin absorbent material may provide all or part of the tube structure. If the resin-absorbing material provides a portion of the tube structure, it may be provided as a layer, and the tube structure typically takes the form of a membrane having characteristics selected depending on the characteristics required for the lining. Additional layers may be provided.

  If the lining is discontinuous in that it is applied to one or more local areas in the pipeline, the tube structure may comprise a membrane on which one or more liner portions containing a resin absorbent material are supported. Often this arrangement is such that when turned upside down, the tube structure provides a liner portion on the inner surface of the conduit to provide a local lining. Typically, the tube structure is subsequently withdrawn, leaving the liner portion in place to provide a local lining.

  When the tube structure includes a resin-absorbing material, such a material may be dry or may be pre-impregnated with a resin. In the latter case, the resin may be partially or completely impregnated.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, the flexible liner comprises a body configured to move stepwise along the conduit to install the flexible liner on the inner surface, the flexible liner being within the conduit. With the tube structure turned inside out, the tube structure comprising a resin absorbent material that may be pre-impregnated with resin, the body provides a contact surface on which the tube structure acts during turning over, the contact surface being a tube structure An apparatus is provided for lining the inner surface of a conduit having means for delivering a curable resin to the part of the body that is inside out.

  Where the contact surface is defined by a plate, one surface may define the contact surface and the opposing surface may provide a boundary for the resin chamber through which resin is delivered to the contact surface by the opening. This also helps to quickly and controllably release the air trapped in the liner. When air is purged from the highest point in the chamber, all of the chamber will be filled with resin.

  In this arrangement, the pressure exerted by the tube structure being turned over is not applied to the resin itself, but in particular to the contact surface, not to the resin contained in the resin chamber. As a result, the resin can freely flow in contact with the tube structure being turned over, and can be easily replenished by delivering the replenishment resin to the resin chamber. In this embodiment, the resin pressure generally remains constant and can be controlled via controlled feedback to a resin delivery pump located at a control station typically on the ground surface. Typically, the replenishment resin is continuously delivered to the resin chamber during the upside down of the tube structure, controlling the feed rate of the tube structure during upside down and the resin pressure to travel consistently along the conduit. To be controlled by a feedback loop.

  Moreover, it is preferable that a main body has the installation for applying resin to the surface where a pipe structure is given. As previously mentioned, the surface to which the tube structure is provided may comprise a substrate applied to the inner wall surface of the passageway or the inner surface of the conduit.

  In this regard, the body may comprise a circumferential chamber containing a resin that is exposed on the inner surface and wiped on the inner surface. If the cross section of the passage is circular, the circumferential chamber is typically of an annular configuration.

  A circumferential chamber is defined between two spaced seals and an inner wall extending between the two seals. The outer periphery of the chamber is essentially defined by the surface to which the tube structure is applied.

  The seal consists of a wiper seal for sliding and sealing contact with the surface.

  The inner wall may be defined by a flexible membrane. The membrane may be deflected for that purpose or to pressurize the resin contents in the chamber. As an alternative and / or in addition, the flexible membrane may be vibrated for optimal contact between the resin and the surface.

  The body may further comprise one or more additional chambers provided adjacently spaced axially along the body.

  Each additional chamber may be defined by two seals and an inner wall extending therebetween.

  If there are adjacent chambers, one seal may be common to both chambers. In other words, if there are two chambers, one preceding the other in the direction of travel of the body, one seal functions as a subsequent seal for one chamber and It may function as a preceding seal.

  Where there are multiple chambers, at least some of the chambers may be utilized to apply resin to the surface that receives the tube structure. In such cases, the chamber is preferably operated at a fluid pressure that gradually decreases in a direction away from the tube being turned over.

  The seal may not only perform a sealing function but also function as a wiper application unit for applying resin uniformly to the inner surface.

  The chamber may consist of a sealed pressurized chamber between which the pressure differential can be achieved and maintained, with the highest pressure being applied to the last chamber that wets the tube structure being turned over. The lowest pressure is applied to the top chamber. In this way, the purge line from the last chamber can be discharged to the front chamber driven by the pressure difference.

  Under certain circumstances, it may be beneficial to apply a substrate to the conduit before placing the tube structure to provide the liner. Such a substrate may include a repair and / or sealing compound (eg, cementitious or polymer grout), a material layer to enhance the engagement between the tube structure and the conduit, or a filler on the inner surface of the conduit. May be included.

  The substrate material can be applied in the same process as the placement of the tube structure during turning over. Alternatively, the process may first place the substrate material using a removable or disposable liner that expands to hold the substrate material in place during curing. Then, during the second step, when the substrate material is cured enough to absorb water, give a dry surface and the resin can cure to that surface, add the tube structure inside out Can do.

  If a substrate is applied to the inner surface of the conduit, at least one of the circumferential chambers may be utilized for this purpose. The associated chamber or each chamber is configured to receive a substrate material. The substrate material is applied to the inner surface of the conduit in a manner similar to that of applying the resin, i.e., the substrate material is applied to and wiped from the inner surface of the conduit. It is clear that the chamber or each chamber utilized for the substrate placement is in front of the chamber utilized for resin delivery to join the tube structure in place.

  Again, the substrate material may be vibrated to optimize the deposition of material on the inner surface of the conduit.

  The body may optionally incorporate a front section for performing preparatory work on the inner surface of the conduit in order to properly prepare for receiving the substrate material or resin.

  The preparatory work may involve removing dirt and other materials from the surface. For this purpose, the front section may comprise a circumferential brush device configured to brush the inner wall of the conduit.

  There may be a plurality of brush devices spaced axially from one another to form an air pressure chamber therebetween. In the pressure flow, there may be a differential pressure gradient between the chambers to generate from the last chamber to the first chamber.

  The preparatory operation may also include applying a preparatory material to the inner surface of the conduit. The preparation material may comprise a low viscosity adhesive that is sprayable or otherwise applicable.

  Also, the forward portion of the device in a preferred embodiment may incorporate collection means for collecting debris in the conduit prior to installation of the tube structure to provide a liner. The collecting means may comprise a suction system for collecting debris.

  The tube structure is preferably delivered to the main body in a folded state. In this arrangement, the folded tube structure is preferably opened during the turning process.

  The tube structure may have a folded state with at least one concave fold. For convenience, there are at least two concave folds adjacent to each longitudinal edge of the folded tube structure.

  In order to assist the movement in the axial direction during the folded state, an installation cable (such as a rope) may be provided in the folded tube structure. Typically, cables are used to axially pull a folded tube structure. The interaction between the installation cable and the folded tube structure may occur via a coupling action between them as a result of the tube structure being folded around the cable. The cable may be stepwise separated from the tube structure when turned over.

  The body may be provided with means for establishing a “wet-out” in the tube structure folded before turning over to increase the efficiency of resin penetration.

  This may involve a lance structure that protrudes outward from the contact surface and terminates at the free end, and the folded tube structure is inserted into the tube structure when the lance structure approaches the contact surface to flip over. So as to surround the lance structure.

  The free end of the lance structure is configured to widen the folded wall of the tube structure to create a cavity for receiving the resin.

  In order to do this reliably, it is further provided with means for monitoring and / or controlling the speed of travel of the body and the amount / thickness of resin applied to the conduit and the tube structure being turned over. Is preferred. Such means may be part of the quality control system, the body may react to the system, communicate with a remote operator providing remote control, or to change pump and advance speed The liner pull may be communicated via a pressure controlled remote feedback loop. It is also possible to control the supply pressure of resin injection into the inverted tube structure, the expansion pressure of the pressure chamber and tube structure, and the vacuum of the tube structure along with it. In this way, the device can be self-controlled to ensure that the optimum travel speed is maintained. This can then be plotted and the plot can be provided to the customer.

  The lance may incorporate an axial passage for receiving the installation cable when separated from the tube structure during turning over.

  The apparatus may further comprise a temperature measuring device for monitoring the temperature of the conduit / liner that may be in communication with the remote operator. There may also be a feedback loop in the resin supply to control the ratio of catalyst to resin that matches the temperature and conditions in the pipe. It may also be part of a quality control system.

  The apparatus further comprises means for sensing and / or monitoring selected conditions relating to liner installation and for modifying the installation process in relation to such conditions and, if necessary. Such conditions may include the delivery rate and composition of the resin, loading on the inside-out tube, and the surface condition of the conduit.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for lining a conduit utilizing the apparatus according to the first or second aspect of the present invention as described above.

  According to a fourth aspect of the invention, the conduit is provided with a tube structure as a liner, the tube structure is turned over into the conduit, the tube structure includes an inner tube portion, an outer tube portion, and an inner portion. Contact with an inside-out portion that extends between the outer tube portion and the exposed surface of the inside-out portion of the tube structure is provided with a curable resin on the inside-out surface for impregnation A method of lining a conduit is provided that includes sliding engagement with a surface.

  The method may further comprise sensing and / or monitoring a selected condition associated with the installation of the liner and varying the installation process as needed in response to such condition. preferable.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a tube structure characterized in that the tube structure has a folded state in which at least one concave fold is formed and extends in the longitudinal direction. Yes.

  The invention will be better understood by reference to the following description of seven specific embodiments as shown in the accompanying drawings.

  Referring to FIGS. 1-9 of the accompanying drawings, there is shown an apparatus 10 according to a first embodiment for installing a liner 11 on an inner surface 13 of a pipeline 15. The liner 11 provides a hermetic seal barrier that is resistant to both corrosion and wear.

  In this embodiment, the liner 11 is in the form of an inverted tube structure 17. Prior to turning over, the tube structure 17 comprises a first tubular layer 17a of a resin-absorbing material, such as a fully or partially impregnated or dried glass fiber fabric, and a second tubular layer providing a membrane. ing. Before the tube structure 17 is turned over, the first layer 17a is located on the innermost side, and the second layer 17b is located on the outermost side so as to surround the first (inner) layer. The material of the membrane that provides the second (outer) layer 17b is selected according to the requirements of the liner 11 in the pipeline 15. For example, when wear resistance is required, the second layer 17b may be made of polypropylene. In other cases, the second layer 17b may be formed from polyester (Mylar), nylon urethane rubber, or other materials suitable for the intended use.

  When turned upside down, the first layer 17 a faces outward and is applied to the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15. As will be described in detail below, a curable resin is applied to the first layer 17a before being applied to the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15. The expansion fluid is delivered to the inside 20 of the inverted portion of the pipe structure 17 so that the pipe structure is kept in intimate contact with the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15 until the resin is cured. And the fiberglass fabric combine to provide a rigid composite structure that lines the pipeline 15 and a second layer 17b that provides a membrane is on the inner surface of the composite structure and continues to flow along the pipeline Touching.

  The curable resin may include an acrylic resin such as epoxy, vinyl, polyester, or methyl methacrylate. The curable resin may be exposed to air depending on the application.

  The apparatus 10 is movable along a pipeline and includes an installation head 21 having a main body 23. The installation head 21 is configured to move stepwise along the pipeline 15 during installation of the liner 11.

  The main body 23 has a front end portion 27 and a rear end portion 29. In this embodiment, the body 23 is pulled through the pipeline 15 by a towing line (not shown) connected to the front end 27 and extending to a station (not shown) located outside the pipeline. It is comprised so that.

  As best shown in FIG. 1, the tube structure 17 is carried to the pipeline 15 in a flat or folded state, pulled along it, and turned upside down from that state. As shown in FIG. 9, the tube structure 17 has two opposing longitudinal side portions 18, 19 and a folded portion 22 between them in a flat or folded state. Yes. In FIG. 9, two longitudinal side portions 18 and 19 are shown spaced apart for the purpose of clearly showing the drawing. In practice, the two parts 18, 19 are in contact with each other and face each other.

  When the tube structure 17 is turned upside down, an inner tube portion 31 and an outer tube portion 32 are produced, and the two portions 31 and 32 are connected by a portion 33 that is being turned over.

  One end of the pipe structure 17 is attached to the rigid installation duct 34 located adjacent to the inlet end of the pipeline 15. Typically, the tube structure 17 extends around the tube and is connected to one end of the duct 34 by a clamping collar (not shown) that hermetically connects it to the end of the duct.

  Delivery duct 35 extends between installation duct 34 and delivery structure 37 incorporating delivery chamber 39. The delivery duct 35 includes a flexible hose structure that is inflated to provide the duct. The expansion chamber 41 is formed by combining the inside 20 of the tube structure 17 turned upside down, the installation duct 34, the delivery duct 35, and the delivery chamber 39. A position where an expansion fluid (air or the like) is introduced into the expansion chamber 41 so as to push the tube structure 17 turned upside down and the applied resin is cured and contacts the inner surface 13 of the pipe 15 to be joined. It is arranged in.

  The inflation fluid is introduced into the inflation chamber 41 by a delivery chamber 39 at the inlet end of the duct 35. The delivery chamber 39 is defined by a housing 43 having an inlet end 45 and an outlet end 47 that communicates with the duct 35. The inlet end 45 of the delivery chamber 39 is closed to maintain inflation pressure in the chamber and a fluid seal mechanism 49 is provided at the inlet end 45 so that a folded tube can be inserted. The fluid seal mechanism 49 includes a pair of sealing rollers 51 arranged in a positional relationship so as to receive the folded tube structure therebetween. The sealing roller 51 is elastically deformable in order to establish a good sealing contact with the tube structure 17.

  Due to the expansion pressure, the tube structure 17 is turned over as the installation head 21 moves along the pipeline 15.

  The installation head 21 has a contact surface 63 at a rear end portion with which the tube structure 17 turned upside down comes into contact. The contact surface 63 is configured to fit and guide the inverted portion 33 of the tube structure 17 when inverted between the inner tube portion 31 and the outer tube portion 32. Contact surface 63 is defined by pressure plate 65. A resin chamber 67 is disposed in the main body 23 adjacent to the pressure plate 65. The pressure plate 65 gives a boundary to the resin chamber 67, and separates the resin chamber from the tube structure 17 being turned over. A resin delivery line 69 is provided for delivering a curable resin from a supply source (not shown) to the resin chamber 67.

  The pressure plate 65 is provided with a plurality of openings 71, and the openings 71 extend from the resin chamber 67 and open to the contact surface 63 by a port 72 incorporated in the contact surface 63. In the case of this arrangement, the tube structure 17 being turned over is rubbed on the contact surface 63 and exposed to the resin delivered from the resin chamber 67. Further, the resin from the resin chamber 67 flows into a space 68 defined by the pressure plate 65 and the tube structure 17 being turned over so that the tube structure being turned over is completely exposed to the resin. As the plate 65 is approached, the tube structure is advanced rearward and downward so as to fill and immerse the tube structure.

  The lance structure 73 projects rearward from the pressure plate 65 and terminates in a projecting portion 74 housed in the folded interior of the tube structure 17 between the side portions 18, 19 as the tube approaches the installation head 21. ing. The protrusion 74 is of a spherical configuration and has a rounded tip 75 that is provided to the folded folded tube structure 17. The projecting portion 74 acts to expand the folded tube wall, and the resin is delivered by a delivery port 77 incorporated in the distal end portion 75 to create a cavity 76 that circulates with the central hole 78 of the lance structure 73. Yes. The boundary between the protrusion 74 and the tube structure 17 that slides over it provides a seal between them. The central hole 78 is adapted to receive the resin from the resin supply portion by the delivery line 80. The lance structure 73 is designed such that the base is attached to a small circumferential pressure plate 65 and a larger circumferential projection 74. Thus, the lance structure 73 follows the general shape formed by the tube structure during turning over, the face itself being turned over is the highest pressure point, and the area just before the face turned upside down is low. Pressure point. Therefore, it is easier to form the cavity just behind the surface being turned over. The cavity 76 through which the resin is delivered creates a “wet-out chamber” within the folded tube structure 17 to initially provide the resin to the tube structure. The objective is to create a long “wet out” chamber due to the water pressure of the resin inflating the tube structure 17 being turned over. The length and size of the wet-out chamber are controlled by the resin injection pressure and the expansion pressure in the tube structure 17 that is turned over. The balance achieved is the length of the wet-out chamber and the wet-out speed. The longer the wet-out chamber length, the longer the resin is exposed to the glass fibers and the faster the progression rate.

  In this embodiment, the separation of the resin chamber 67 from the force of the tube structure 17 that is turned over to push the rear of the installation head 21 in other words, the resin pressure only needs to satisfy the depth of the chamber, This is consistent and can be monitored. Also, the resin content in the chamber can be monitored by various means to ensure that all air is purged from the resin volume.

  In this embodiment, the installation head 21 further includes a guide structure 81 through which the tube structure 17 passes when turned over. The guide structure 81 includes a guide ring 82 having a ring body 83 with a central opening 84. The ring body 83 provides a guide surface 85 around which the tube structure 17 is turned around, the inner tube portion 31 enters the ring body 83 through the central opening 84, and the portion 33 being turned over is the outer periphery of the ring body. It passes around the guide surface 85 so that the outer tube portion 32 is separated from the section.

  The guide structure 81 is configured to eliminate or at least reduce the tendency of creases and folds to be formed in the tube structure 17 when turned over. In this regard, the guide structure may include a guide ring structure having a configuration disclosed in PCT / AU01 / 00563 (WO01 / 88338).

  The guide structure 81 acts to give the tube structure 17, in particular, the contact surface 63 for exposing and impregnating the first layer 17a of the glass fiber fabric to the resin.

  The guide structure 81 moves with the main body 23 as a result of interaction between the protrusion 74 and the roller 93 mounted on the support structure 95 extending rearward from the ring structure, and the tube structure 17. This wall passes through the gap 97 between the roller and the protrusion 89. As a result, the traction force applied to the main body 23 by the traction line is transmitted to the guide structure 81 so as to move integrally with the main body 23 due to the interaction between the protrusion 74 and the roller 93.

  The main body 23 incorporates a plurality of holding chambers 100 arranged along the axial direction thereof. In this embodiment, there are three such holding chambers 101, 102, 103.

  Each chamber 100 is defined between two spaced apart annular wiper seals or inflatable spreaders 104 and an inner wall 105. The outer peripheral portion of each chamber 100 is directly exposed to the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15.

  Each inner wall 105 is of a flexible structure and is subjected to vibration to pulsate and pressurize the contents of the chamber.

  As best shown in FIG. 5, an inflatable bladder 106 is associated with each inner wall 105. In order to generate pulsations in the inner wall 105, the introduction and extraction of inflation fluid to the inflatable bladder 106 is used. Further, the volume of each chamber may be changed by selectively moving the inner wall 105 under the influence of the inflatable bladder 106.

  In this embodiment, each chamber 100 receives resin from the resin source and grout from the grout source to deposit a layer of resin or grout on the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15 prior to applying the liner in place. It is configured. Thereby, sufficient resin for immersing the glass fiber fabric 17a is obtained.

  A particular feature of the flexible wall 105 that defines each chamber 101 is that, as described above, the chamber volume can be varied and thus adjustable. The ability to reduce the volume of any one or more selected chambers 100 as the installation head 21 approaches the end of the pipeline is beneficial in that little or no resin remains at the end of the installation process. . If the resin or grout remains, there arises a problem of spilling or wasting.

  The chamber 100 operates at different resin pressures. For example, the resin pressure of the chamber 101 is higher than that of the chamber 102, and the resin pressure of the chamber 102 is higher than that of the chamber 103. If the resin pressure spreading downward from the chamber 101 to the chamber 103 is reduced in stages, the possibility of resin leaking from the installation head 21 is reduced. Leakage from chamber 101 (where the resin pressure is at its highest position) is either directed backwards toward the tube structure 17 being turned over (where resin is required anyway) or chamber 102 (chamber 101). Can be either inward (with low pressure relative to). Similarly, leakage from chamber 102 is either back to chamber 101 (less likely due to higher pressure in chamber 101) or forward to chamber 103, which is at a lower pressure compared to chamber 102. It is. Since chamber 102 is at low pressure, there is little possibility of leakage from this chamber. Moreover, even if there is a leak from the chamber 102, it is only a leak that deposits resin on the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15, which is a required place anyway.

  Each of the annular seals 104 includes a seal surface 107 that is pivotally connected to the body 23 by a hinge 109. The seal surface 107 has an annular configuration such as a hinge 109. The hinge 109 is typically a film hinge.

  The seal surface 107 is incorporated into an annular seal body 111 that further incorporates an annular expansion chamber 113. The sealing surface 107 includes bristles that are directed outward to slide and sealingly engage the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15 as the chamber 113 expands as the installation head 21 moves along the pipeline. Since the sealing surface 107 is biased outward, it is possible to follow irregularities in the inner surface 13 of the pipeline. When the expansion chamber 113 contracts, the seal 104 folds inward, so that the seal surface 107 moves away from the inner surface 13 of the pipeline. This is particularly beneficial during the initial insertion of the installation head 21 into the pipeline 15 and during removal of the installation head therefrom. Because the seal 104 is contracted, it does not engage the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15 and is therefore easier to transition along the pipe when not in operation and during insertion and removal of the installation head 21. This allows the process to be performed without interference that may be caused by the engagement of the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15 and the seal 104. When the installation head 21 is in place in the pipeline 15, the various chambers 113 can be expanded to move the seal 107 to a position that sealingly engages the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15.

  As is apparent from the drawing, the wiper seal 104 extends outward and rearward with respect to the traveling direction of the installation head 21. In this arrangement, the wiper seal 104 will be urged outwardly in sealing engagement with the inner surface 13 of the pipeline under fluid pressure in the respective chamber 100 where the wiper seal is exposed. This is particularly beneficial for certain wiper seals that face the resin chamber 67 because the resin pressure acts to direct the wiper seal outwardly into sealing engagement with the inner surface of the pipeline. .

  Although the seal and diffusing surface 107 in sliding and sealing engagement with the inner surface 13 of the pipeline has been described, it is understood that there is a high probability of sliding and sealing engagement with a layer of resin or grout applied to the inner surface. I want. The sealing surface 107 is not only used for performing a sealing function but also used for performing a wiping or diffusing function by applying a resin to the inner surface 13. Therefore, the seal surface 107 needs to correspond to the resin film.

  In this embodiment, the holding chamber 100 includes three chambers 101, 102, and 103. It should be appreciated that any suitable number of chambers can be used as needed. It is particularly beneficial to have a large number of chambers 100 so that there is enough resin to fill defects such as cracks and cavities in the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15, where a series of chambers have pipes installed by the installation head 21. Moving through the line will fill the defect in stages while passing over the defect.

  The installation head 21 may further include a brush device 115 that is located behind the front end portion 27 of the main body 23 and that is provided at intervals in a series of axial directions. Each brush device 115 includes an annular base 116 from which bristle 117 for brush connection with the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15 protrudes. The brush devices 115 are coupled together by a flexible cable 118. The brush device 115 is intended to remove debris from the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15 in order to prepare the surface to receive resin for bonding the liner 11 in place.

  A series of chambers 123 are defined between the brush devices 115. Chamber 123 is configured to contain air at different pressures so that the subsequent chamber air is at the highest pressure and the preceding chamber is at the lowest pressure, and the pressure in the intervening chamber is such that the air pressure from the succeeding chamber to the preceding chamber is increased. It is at an intermediate level that gradually increases. In such an arrangement, if a leak in the pipeline 15 causes air to leak from one chamber to the next, an air flow will be generated forward from one chamber to the next. . In the process of moving from one chamber to the next, the air flow is blown forward of the installation head 21 to remove and collect debris such as sand and gravel particles, or holes in the pipeline 15. If so, the water in any cavity of the pipeline 15 is displaced by displacing the water and debris through the hole to the outside of the pipeline. In this way, the device 10 can also operate on pipes below the surface of the water by displacing the water by air pressure.

  The installation head 21 may further include a collecting means 119 for collecting debris in the pipeline 15 before the liner 11 is installed. The collecting means 119 comprises a suction system having a suction head 120 connected to the suction line 122.

In addition, before the liner 11 is arranged, means (not shown) for spraying a low-viscosity adhesive on the inner surface 13 for absorption may be provided.
The apparatus 10 is equipped with various sensing and monitoring devices to help adjust the installation process of the liner 11 in order to establish and maintain optimal conditions. Such a sensing monitoring device may comprise means for performing a visual inspection of the pipeline 15 before, during and / or after the installation process. Further, such devices may be determined (if necessary) in relation to the degree required for the surface of the pipeline.

  In addition, such devices may allow calculation of the optimal resin capacity and delivery rate. In this way, the delivery of the resin is controlled so that an appropriate amount can be applied. Thus, for example, if there is a variation in the pipeline conditions along the length, and it is necessary to apply the resin in one place rather than the other, the resin delivery speed (and hence the amount) during the installation process It can be adjusted continuously. While eliminating the waste of resin, it may be possible to increase the installation speed in a place where a smaller amount of resin is required.

  Further, the optimum curing conditions for the resin may be determined by a sensing and monitoring device in consideration of factors such as temperature and humidity. This modifies the composition of the resin as needed to optimize the curing conditions, for example by adding, removing or changing the amount of components such as accelerators, activators and / or catalysts. You may be able to do it.

  Other sensing and monitoring devices may include sensors for measuring the tension and load of the liner while turning over.

  Using a sensory monitoring device facilitates continuous, at least regular feedback, to maintain optimal installation conditions. This increases the reliability of the installation process.

  The installation head 21 is configured to be articulated so that the outer shape can be adjusted and bent in the pipeline. The flexible cable 118 extending between the brush devices and sliding on the seal spreader and scraper 115 facilitates the articulated configuration of the installation head 21.

  Hereinafter, the operation of the apparatus 10 for installing the liner 11 in the pipeline 15 will be described.

  The installation head 21 is disposed in the pipeline 15 adjacent to the end where the lining operation is started. The front end 27 of the body 23 is connected to a traction line that extends to the other end of the pipeline and terminates at a station where various operations are performed including pulling of the traction line to pull the installation head 21 along the pipeline. . The installation duct 34 is disposed at a position adjacent to the starting end of the pipeline 15, and the delivery structure 37 is typically installed at a convenient location on the ground surface near the end of the pipeline. . The delivery duct 35 is then placed between the installation duct 34 and the delivery structure 37. Due to its flexible nature, the delivery duct 35 can successfully follow the access path dug into the ground leading to the end of the pipeline. Next, the tube structure 17 passes through the inlet end 45 of the delivery chamber 39 in the delivery structure 37 in a folded state so as to protrude beyond the installation duct 34 along the delivery duct 35. . The rear end of the folded tube structure 17 is then connected to the installation duct 34 by a clamping collar that extends around the tube and seals it to the end of the duct 34. Next, fluid pressure is introduced into the delivery chamber 39 and the delivery duct 35 to expand the delivery duct 35 and start turning the tube structure 17 upside down. The fluid pressure is generated by introducing an inflation fluid, typically air. When the tube structure 17 is turned upside down, the portion 33 being turned over is provided at and guided into the end of the pipeline 15 so that the tube structure advances along the pipeline when turned over. The

  While turning over, the tube structure 17 surrounds the lance structure 73 as it advances along the pipeline 15, and the turning portion 33 engages the pressure plate 65 at the rear end of the body 23. The advancing speed of the tube structure 17 that is being reversed along the pipeline 15 is controlled by the traveling speed of the installation head 21 itself, and the inside surface 33 of the tube structure 17 is in wiping contact with the contact surface 63. Since the contact pressure applied by the tube structure 17 being reversed is mainly directed to the pressure plate 65, the resin itself passes through the opening 71 and the portion 33 of the pressure plate 65 and the tube structure 17 being reversed. It is possible to freely flow into the space defined by. Since the resin in the resin chamber 67 flows through the opening 71 in the pressure plate 65, the resin comes into contact with the inside-out portion of the tube structure 17. Impregnate. The glass fiber layer 17a is also impregnated with resin by being exposed to the resin with the nose 75 of the lance 73. As the installation head 21 advances along the pipeline 15, the chamber 100 applies resin to the inner surface 13 of the pipeline. The wiper seal 104 functions as a wiper or a scraper for uniformly diffusing the resin on the inner surface 13.

  Since resin is given to the glass fiber layer 17a of the pipe structure 17 at various places until it contacts the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15, optimum resin impregnation of the glass fiber fabric is achieved.

  The expansion pressure in the tube structure 17 being turned over presses the outer portion 32 of the tube structure 17 so as to be close to the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15. This process continues until the installation head 21 reaches the other end of the pipeline 15 at which the installation head 21 is withdrawn from the pipeline, and the extra end section of the tube structure 17 is removed from the pipeline 15. To close the end of the expansion chamber 41, thereby maintaining the expansion pressure in the tube structure 17 that is turned over until such time that the resin cures to form a composite structure with the fiberglass fabric. Will do.

  When the installation head 21 reaches the end of the pipeline 15, it is desirable to avoid resin spillage. This is because if the resin spills, both dirt and waste may occur. In connection with avoiding or at least reducing resin spillage, only the required amount of resin is contained in the chamber, with little or no excess resin when reaching the end of the pipeline. Thus, the supply of resin to the resin chamber 100 can be adjusted when the installation head 21 approaches the end.

  The extra end section of the tube structure 17 may be tightened in any suitable manner. One particular suitable method includes a clamp structure (not shown) having a base and a flexible clamping strap attached to the base at one end. The clamping strap is configured in a loop around the extra end section of the tube structure, and the other end of the clamping strap is provided in the base and connected to a mechanism operable to cause loop clamping. ing. This mechanism may include, for example, a winding mechanism capable of winding a strap.

  With such a clamp structure, a simple yet highly efficient tightening configuration can be obtained. All that is required is to wrap the strap around the end section of the tube structure, connect the free end of the strap to the wrapping mechanism, and then operate the mechanism that causes the loop to be tightened and thus the tube structure to be tightened. All you need to do is

  One feature of the apparatus 10 is that the amount of resin in the resin chamber 67 is constrained. In particular, the amount of resin is suppressed by the body 23 at one end facing the resistance force provided by the body 23. Further, the amount of resin is suppressed by the portion of the tube structure that is turned over at the other end that is exposed to the pressing force or driving force provided by the portion 33 that is turned inside out. In other words, the amount of resin is suppressed by the force applied by the main body 23 and the tube structure 17 being turned over. Such a force is acting on the amount of resin so that it is essentially a row of resin in front of the tube structure 17 being turned over.

  In this embodiment, the wiper seal 104 performs both a sealing function and a resin diffusion function. It should be understood that such functions can be performed by separate elements if desired. For example, a mechanical lever may be provided to perform a spreading function or to assist in execution.

  In the first embodiment, in order to move the guide ring structure 81 along the pipeline 15 integrally with the main body 23, the interaction between the protrusion 74 and the roller 93 causes the main body 23 and the guide structure 81 to move. There was a mechanical connection between them.

  In another arrangement, an electromagnetic connection may exist between the body 23 and the guide structure 81 for such purposes. The electromagnetic interconnect may be the only connection between them, or it reinforces any suitable type of mechanical connection as described for the first embodiment. Also good.

  The second embodiment shown in FIG. 10 uses an electromagnetic connection between the main body 23 and the guide structure 81. The electromagnetic connection includes an electromagnet 121 disposed on the pressure plate 65 on the opposite side of the contact surface 63. In this arrangement, the electromagnet 121 is accommodated in the resin chamber 67. The electromagnet 121 incorporates an opening 123 aligned with a corresponding opening 71 in the pressure plate 65 so as not to interfere with the flow of resin from the resin chamber 67 to the contact surface 63.

  A particular advantage of the electromagnetic connection is that the gap between the contact surface 63 and the guide surface 85 of the guide structure 81 can be selectively changed by the strength of the established magnetic field. In this way, it is possible to adjust the drag applied to the pipe 13 by the installation head 21 when moving forward along the passage 15. This information can be incorporated into the direct feedback loop so that the process and the thickness of the resin contained between the faces and rings can be controlled.

  In this embodiment, the installation head is not only equipped with an electromagnetic connection, but also a roller 93 supported on the guide structure 81 and a protrusion provided on a lance 73 protruding backward from the main body 23. A mechanical connection provided by interaction with the part 73 is also provided. In this way, the connection between the guide ring 81 and the main body 23 is maintained even when the electromagnetic connection is stopped.

  In the first and second embodiments, the tube structure 17 is turned over around the guide structure 81. However, it should be recognized that depending on the application, a guide structure may not be required. The action of fluid pressure in the tube structure 17 during inversion may be sufficient to cause the tube structure to turn over and advance the tube structure along the pipeline. The advancing speed of the tube being reversed along the pipeline is controlled by the traveling speed of the installation head 21 itself, and the surface 33 of the tube structure 17 that is being reversed is in wiping contact with the contact surface 63. FIG. 11 shows such an embodiment.

  In this embodiment, the tube structure 17 is not physically connected to the installation head 21 so that it can be pulled out by the installation head. To be exact, the tube structure 17 is merely placed on the installation head by contacting with the contact surface 63 of the pressure plate 65. Furthermore, the tube structure 17 surrounds the lance 73 as described above for the previously described embodiments.

  It should be understood that the contact between the portion 33 and the contact surface 63 during the turnover of the tube structure may be an indirect contact in that there is a resin film between them.

  The installation head 21 may be equipped with a mechanism 130 for extracting air from a cavity that may be present in the upper part of the upper part of the inner surface 13 of the pipeline. Such an arrangement is incorporated in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 and comprises a suction line 131 having a suction end 133. The state in which the suction end 133 enters the cavity 139 is shown in FIG. 13, and the suction line 131 adjacent to the suction end 133 enters the cavity in the upper section of the pipeline 15 at the position of reference numeral 135. It is configured to function as a spring configuration that biases the suction end to the outermost state protruding beyond the periphery of the body. Normally, the suction end portion 133 is held in a retracted state as shown in FIG. 12 by contacting the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15. However, when the suction end 133 encounters a cavity (such as a cavity 139 as shown in FIG. 13), the suction end 133 protrudes outward and can enter the cavity.

  The suction end portion 33 is slightly deviated from the normal line of the inner surface 13 of the pipeline, and the direction thereof is away from the moving direction of the installation head, so that unpleasant noise and catching noise on the inner surface 13 of the pipeline are not generated. Absent.

  Referring now to FIGS. 14-17, an apparatus 10 according to a further embodiment for installing a liner 11 on an inner surface 13 of a pipeline 15 is shown.

  The device according to this embodiment is similar to the device 10 according to the first embodiment, so that, where appropriate, corresponding reference numbers are used to identify corresponding parts. In this embodiment, the delivery chamber 39 incorporates a guide roller 141 that engages the folded tube structure 17. The guide roller 141 assists in tracking the tube structure 17 when entering the delivery duct 35.

  A roller assembly 143 is provided adjacent the end of the delivery duct 35 to align the tube structure prior to entering the installation duct 34. The roller structure 143 includes a pair of rollers 145 between which the folded tube structure 17 passes, and the longitudinal portions 18 and 19 of the folded tube structure are in engagement with the roller 145. The roller assembly 143 incorporates a lateral guide roller 147 that engages one of the longitudinal edges of the folded tube structure 17. The assembly of guide rollers 143 assists in lateral tracking of the folded tube structure as it enters the installation duct 34.

  Referring now to FIG. 18, a delivery chamber 39 of an installation device according to a further embodiment is shown. The delivery chamber 39 of this embodiment is similar to the delivery chamber of the embodiment described above, except that there is two fluid seal mechanisms 49 instead of one fluid seal mechanism as in the above embodiment. Is different.

  In the following, referring to FIGS. 19 to 25, an installation device 10 according to a further embodiment is shown. Also in this case, since there are similarities to the above-described embodiments, the corresponding reference numbers are used to identify the corresponding parts. The installation apparatus 10 according to this embodiment includes an installation head 21 that is somewhat similar to the installation head of the first embodiment. In the first embodiment, the installation head 21 has been described as being pulled along the pipeline 14 by a traction line. Depending on the application, the installation head 21 may be advanced by a driving force applied by the tube structure 17 being turned over, rather than by a traction line. Specifically, the pressure of the inflation fluid introduced into the chamber 20 within the tube structure to cause flipping and press the outer portion 32 of the tube structure to a position proximate to the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15 is: It may be sufficient to apply a driving force to the installation head 21 via the pressure plate 65 with which the tube structure 17 that is turned inside out contacts. Under such circumstances, it may be necessary to provide a mechanism for reducing the speed at which the installation head 21 advances under the influence of the fluid pressure exerted by the tube structure 17 being turned over. For this purpose, the installation head 21 according to the present embodiment incorporates a brake thread 151. The brake sled 151 is located in front of the installation head 21 and is connected to the installation head 21 by a rigid coupling 153 for transmitting a deceleration force from the brake sled 151 to the installation head 21.

  The brake sled 151 is configured to frictionally engage the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15 so as to give a deceleration force. As briefly described below, the deceleration force can be selectively changed by adjusting the degree of frictional engagement with the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15. Further, the deceleration force may be adjusted by providing a mechanism for driving the brake sled 151, and by selectively changing the driving force applied to the brake sled 151, the brake sled 151 (and thus it does not move). It is arranged so that the forward speed of the installation head 21) connected to can be controlled. In other words, the speed at which the brake sled 151 and the installation head 121 advance integrally is as follows: (1) the force applied to the installation head 21 via the tube structure 17 being turned over by the inflation fluid; And (3) a balance between a deceleration force applied to the brake sled 151 by frictional engagement with the pipeline 15.

  In this embodiment, the brake sled 151 is driven by applying a traction force by a traction line 157, one end of the traction line is connected to the brake sled at a connection point 158, the other end is a winch (not shown), etc. Connected to the pulling mechanism.

  The brake sled 151 includes three skid members 161, 162, and 163, each of which is configured to be in a position for sliding engagement with the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15. The skid member 161 functions as a base of the brake structure 151 and moves along the bottom of the pipeline 15. The skid members 162 and 163 are supported on the base skid member 161 by support columns 165 and 167. The strut 165 incorporates an adjustment mechanism 169 for selectively changing its effective length and thus the relative position of the skid member 162. In this way, it is possible to change the spacing between the three skid members 161, 162, 163, so that the radial position of the skid members and, consequently, the friction with the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15. The engaging force is adjusted.

  In this embodiment, the base skid member 161 includes a tubular member 171 filled with a ballast material such as lead. The front end of the tubular member is directed upward and a longitudinal web 173 is provided along the length of the tubular member.

  Each of the skid members 162, 163 includes an elongated element 175 that is bent inwardly at its rearward end. Each elongated element 175 is provided with a cover 177 made of a friction material (such as a tire tread) in order to increase the frictional resistance with the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15.

  The installation head 21 according to this embodiment further includes a suction mechanism 130 for extracting air from a cavity that may exist on the upper portion of the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15 as in the case of the first embodiment. Incorporated. The suction mechanism 130 in this embodiment includes a suction line 181 having a suction end 183. In FIG. 22, where the end section 187 is shown in the cavity 188, the suction line 181 adjacent to the suction end 183 is the outer end of the suction line 181 so that it extends beyond the perimeter of the installation head. It incorporates a forming portion 185 that allows the section 187 to be deflected laterally to enter a cavity in the upper portion of the pipeline 15. The formation 185 in the suction line 181 establishes a “twist” in the suction line 181 when the outer section 187 is not deflected laterally as shown in FIG. “Twist” functions as a valve to stop or at least slow down the flow to the suction line 181 when it is not necessary to extract air (ie, when there is no cavity).

  This embodiment also incorporates a feature of a clamping seal mechanism 191 for clamping and holding the outer tube portion 32 in a position that sealingly engages the inner surface of the pipeline 15. This is to ensure that there is sufficient resin coating between the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15 and the outer tube portion 32 of the section 193 immediately behind the portion 33 of the tube structure 17 being turned over. This is to prevent the resin from flowing backward. In this arrangement, the resin is suppressed at one end by the tightening seal mechanism 191 and at the other end by the pressure plate 65 and the annular seal 104 therearound. This ensures that there is sufficient resin between the inner surface of the pipeline 15 and the section 193 of the liner behind the portion 33 being turned over for the purpose of joining.

  The clamp seal mechanism 191 includes a support 194 in a split ring configuration that incorporates a mechanism 196 for expanding and contracting the ring. A deformable material layer 198 such as rubber is provided on the outer surface of the support 194 in order to accommodate irregularities of the abutting surface. The fissured ring support 194 is moved to a contracted state so that it can be mounted in place in the pipeline 15. And it expands so that it may clamp-engage with the inner surface of the pipeline 15, and the outer pipe | tube part 32 will be clamp | tightened between them.

  In the installation head 21 used in the first embodiment, the pressure plate 65 that defines the contact surface 63 is supported immovably in the installation head. In this embodiment, the pressure plate 65 is supported on an elastic suspension system 201 incorporating a spring 203. This allows pressure to be applied to the pressure plate 65 via the tube section 33 being turned over by the monitored inflation fluid and the operating system adjusted accordingly. For example, the speed at which the resin is delivered to the resin chamber 67 can be changed by adjusting the resin delivery pump according to the operational requirements determined by the pressure. In this embodiment, this arrangement uses a proximity switch (not shown) that detects the deflection of the pressure plate 65 to a given degree in response to the pressure applied to the pressure plate, to the resin chamber 67. Resin delivery is started. In this manner, when the contact surface 63 of the pressure plate 65 and the portion 33 of the tube structure 17 that is turned over are separated, the delivery of the resin to the resin chamber 67 can be stopped or at least reduced. It becomes possible. As determined by the deflection of the pressure plate 65, the resin flow can be resumed when the portion 33 of the tube structure 17 that has been turned over moves to a position that properly contacts the contact surface 63.

  The embodiment shown in FIGS. 26, 27 and 28 relates to a device 10 according to a further embodiment for installing the liner 11 on the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15. The device 10 of this embodiment is similar in most respects to the device 10 according to the first embodiment, and corresponding reference numbers are used to identify corresponding parts. In this embodiment, along with the delivery duct 35 and the installation duct 34, there is a provision for pulling the tube structure 17 folded along the pipeline 15 to increase the forward movement caused by the inflation pressure.

  The pulling system utilizes an installation cable 211 in the form of a pulling rope. The pulling rope 211 extends in the axial direction via the tube structure 17 so that the tube structure and the rope are connected when the tube structure is in a folded state. Although not apparent from the figure, in this embodiment, the tube structure comprises an inner layer 17a and an outer layer 17b, and the rope 211 extends axially along the tube structure in the inner 211 layer. The rope 211 is inserted into an appropriate position of the pipe structure 17 when the pipe structure 17 is manufactured.

  The rope 211 is pulled by an appropriate pulling mechanism such as a winch or a winding drum (not shown).

  In this embodiment, the lance 73 projecting rearward from the pressure plate 65 terminates in a projecting portion 74 having a generally spherical configuration. It may be beneficial for the lance 73 to have some degree of lateral flexibility. The protrusion 74 is housed on the folded inner surface of the tube structure 17 between the longitudinal side portions 18, 19 as the tube structure approaches the installation head. The lance 73 has a passage 221 extending in the axial direction. As best shown in FIG. 28, the passage 221 is of a size that accommodates the rope 211 with the gap space 223 therebetween. In this arrangement, the lance 73 assists in separating the pull rope 211 and the folded tube structure 17, and as best shown in FIG. 28, the rope 211 passes through the lance structure 73, The longitudinal portions 18, 19 will move to the opposite side of the lance when approaching the contact surface 63 of the pressure plate 65.

  The gap space 223 provides a passage through which air can escape when air is present in the folded tube structure 17.

  Once a seal is established at the boundary between the protrusion 74 and the tube structure 17 that slides thereon, the resin can move from the area around the resin chamber 67 and lance 73 beyond the protrusion 74, It comes into contact with the pulling rope 211 and cannot move into the passage 221. The presence of resin on the pulling rope 211 and in the passage 221 is the most undesirable situation. This is because if the resin exists, separation of the pulling rope and the pipe structure 17 and further movement of the pulling rope along the passage 221 are hindered.

  Because the folded tube structure 17 is connected to the rope 211 and separated therefrom by interaction with the lance 73, the pulling rope and tube structure advance at the same speed along the delivery duct 35 and the installation duct 34. Will do.

  Since the pulling rope 211 is pulled through the central passage 221 in the lance 73 and connected to a pulling mechanism such as a winch, the pulling rope 211 moves independently of the installation head 21.

  The embodiment shown in FIGS. 26, 27, and 28 is specially made for use with a tube structure 17 incorporating a pull rope 211, but does not incorporate such a pull rope. It can also be used with structures. FIG. 29 shows an example in which the installation head according to this embodiment is used together with a pipe structure 17 without a pulling rope.

  In the embodiment described above, the pipe structure 17 is sent to the installation head 21 in a folded state as shown in FIG.

  It has been found to be advantageous to fold the tube structure 17 into a folded state with one or more concave folds. FIG. 30 shows such a folded state in the case where the tube structure 17 includes the inner tubular layer 17a and the outer tubular layer 17b. In this embodiment, the inner tubular layer 17a is of a resin-absorbing material such as glass fiber fabric, and the outer tubular layer 17b is of a suitable material for the intended purpose, such as polypropylene.

  The tube structure 17 is folded in a folded state including two concave folds 231, 232 located between the two longitudinal side portions 18, 19. With this arrangement, each concave crease extends inwardly from one longitudinal edge of the folded tube structure. Again, it should be noted that although FIG. 30 shows the longitudinal portions 18 and 19 spaced apart, it is actually in surface contact.

  Such a folding structure has been found to be particularly beneficial in a method in which it is turned inside out. This will be described below with reference to FIGS. 31 and 32. FIG. 31 is a schematic view of the portion 33 of the folded tube structure shown in FIG. 30 being turned over, and FIG. 31 is a view of the portion of the folded tube structure shown in FIG. 9 being turned over. As can be seen from FIG. 31, the tube structure 17 is turned upside down substantially horizontally, and the virtual string 235 along the surface 237 of the part being turned upside down is almost moved as it moves from the folded state to the assembled state. It has moved relatively horizontally by the same distance. In comparison, it is clear from FIG. 32 that the folded tube structure shown in FIG. 13 is not flipped horizontally in this way.

  The folded tube structure 17 shown in FIG. 30 has two concave folds 231 and 232. It should be recognized that other folding patterns including concave folds are possible. For example, FIG. 33 shows a folded tube structure 17 that includes a plurality of concave folds 231, 232 extending from a longitudinal edge.

  Another folding pattern, not shown, may include radially extending concave folds spaced circumferentially around the tube structure. In such a case, the folded tube structure has a configuration close to a star shape.

  In the following, referring to FIGS. 34, 35 and 36, the configuration of a tube structure 17 having equipment for extracting the contained air is shown. This arrangement includes a sleeve 241 formed from a flexible plastic material or any other suitable material that is impermeable to air. The sleeve 241 encloses the folded tube structure 17. FIG. 34 shows an arrangement in a very schematic state that is not at all similar to the actual overview. In fact, the tube structure 17 is pressed against each other with the longitudinal portions 18 and 19 in surface contact, and a concave fold is compressed between them. Further, the sleeve 241 firmly encloses the folded tube structure 17. A longitudinal spacer element 243 extends axially along the folded tube structure 17 between the longitudinal portion 18 and the surrounding sleeve 241.

  In one arrangement, the longitudinal element 243 has a bundle of glass fiber strands. The longitudinal element 243 cooperates with the folded tube structure and the surrounding sleeve to form an axial path 247 through which air can be extracted. Typically, the axial air path 247 is formed of a bundle of glass fiber strands. The axial path 247 communicates with a suction source (not shown) at the rear end of the folded tube structure 17.

  In another arrangement, the longitudinal element 243 has a flexible tube that defines a path for extracting air, and the side wall of the tube is perforated at an appropriate location for air to enter. As in the first arrangement, the tube is in communication with a suction source or the atmosphere.

  As shown in FIG. 35, the folded tube structure 17 is sent out from a reel 251 to be wound. The reel 251 has a facility 253 for connecting the end of the air passage 247 to the suction source.

  In the various embodiments described above, a tube structure 17 having an inner layer 17a and an outer layer 17b is utilized. FIGS. 37 to 48 show arrangements for successfully assembling such a tube structure 17.

  This arrangement comprises an assembly line 250 that is capable of performing various operations of the configuration process. The assembly line 250 has a first end 251, a second end 252, and an assembly path extending between the first and second ends. At the first end 251, various materials used in the assembly process are routed to the assembly path from each reel to which the material is supplied. At the second end 253, the assembled components are wound around the storage reel 257. The storage reel 257 is driven so that components can be easily wound around it.

  The assembly path has various operation stages including a first forming stage 261, a second forming stage 262, a third joining stage 263, and a fourth folding press stage 264. In this embodiment, the second and third stages 262 and 263 are integrated into a single unit 267.

  As shown in FIG. 38, the first stage 261 has a former 269. The former 269 includes an outer member 271 and incorporates an opening 273 located in the outer member. A loop member 275 is received in the opening 273 spaced from the periphery, so that there are two working spaces 281, 282 defined in the former 269. As shown in FIG. 37, the space 281 is defined between the outer member 271 and the loop member 275, and the space 282 is defined within the boundary of the loop member 275.

  Hereinafter, the configuration of the inner layer 17a of the tube structure 17 will be described with reference to FIGS. 39 and 40. FIG. A roll 290 of glass fiber material is disposed at the first end 251 from which the material web 291 is fed along the assembly path, passing through the outer space 281 in the former 269, as shown in FIG. It has come to be. In this way, the longitudinal edge portions of the web 291 of glass fiber material will be oriented inward relative to each other in the first step of the process of forming the web into a tube. From the first former 269, the web 291 (having inwardly directed longitudinal sides) is the second stage 262 on which alternative longitudinal edges are arranged for joining, Continue to move along the assembly path toward the two formers. The bonding operation is performed by the third bonding stage 263. To assemble the inner layer 17a, the bonding process typically includes an adhesive bond. This completes the assembly of the inner part in a tubular shape, and is thereafter wound around the storage reel 293 at the second end 252.

  The next stage of the process involves transferring the reel 293 around which the inner layer 17a is wound to the first station 251. The material web 295 of the outer layer 17b is similarly assembled on the reel 297 at the first station. The tubular inner layer 17a is fed into the inner space 282 in the former 269 and the material web 295 for feeding the outer layer 17b is in the outer space 281 in the former 269 as best shown in FIG. Supplied. As the material moves through the former 269, the longitudinal side portions of the web 295 contained within the outer space 281 are oriented inward to initiate assembly into the outer layer 17b into a tubular configuration. From the first former, the material is brought together with the longitudinal edges of the web 295 and transferred to the second former at the station 262 where they are joined together to assemble the outer layer 17b into a tubular configuration. Is completed. Thus, this results in a tube structure 17 having inner and outer portions. The joining process in assembling the outer layer 17b typically includes plastic welding.

  As shown in FIG. 9, if the tube structure 17 will have a folded configuration, the assembly process will ensure that the folded tube structure is compressed and the bonded surfaces are well bonded to each other. Further, it continues to a stage 264 that compresses the tube structure to flatten it so that it can be easily wound on the reel 299 at the second station.

  As shown in FIGS. 30 and 33, when the tube structure 17 has a concave fold, the tube structure 17 is subjected to a folding operation. This may be performed as a separate operation on the stage before or after the tube structure is wound on the reel 299.

  As shown in FIGS. 43 to 46, the folding operation may be performed using a folding mechanism 301. The folding mechanism 301 includes an inner former 302 and a cooperating outer former 303. An inner former 302 is disposed within the tube structure 17 and an outer former 303 is disposed to cooperate with the inner former to form concave folds 231, 232.

  The inner former 302 includes a body 304 having two opposing longitudinal sides 305, with a longitudinal channel 306 between the sides 305 and between them, as best shown in FIG. Open to the central web 307. In this arrangement, each channel 306 provides a press against which the tube structure 17 is pressed to form a concave fold.

  The outer former 303 includes a body 308 having a pair of spaced apart press wheels 309 that is slightly larger than the central web 307 defined between the two channels 306 in the inner former 302. .

  In this arrangement, the outer former 303 is arranged around the inner former 302, the press wheel 309 is housed in the channel 306, and the portion of the tube structure 17 is inserted between them. . As the inner former 302 and outer former 303 move relative to the tube structure 17, the press wheel 309 presses a portion of the tube structure 17 into the channel 306, thereby forming a concave fold. Is created in stages.

  Relative motion between the folding mechanism 301 and the tube structure 17 can be achieved in any suitable manner. For example, the inner former 302 may be pulled along the interior of the tube structure 17 and the outer former 303 may move along the tube structure together with the inner former. The inner former may be pulled in any suitable manner, such as by a cable 300 attached thereto.

  In another arrangement, the folding mechanism 301 may be arranged at the folding station, and the tube structure 17 may be advanced stepwise through the folding station to undergo a folding action.

  When folded, the folds can be held in place by any suitable means during storage and handling. The restraining means is removed when the tube structure is introduced into the roller of the pressure chamber and moves down to the reversal point where it is held in a folded position by the pressure in the chamber and pipe when it is reversed. ing.

  As previously described for the embodiments shown in FIGS. 26, 27 and 28, when the tube structure 17 incorporates the pull rope 211, the pull rope 211 is incorporated into the tube structure 17 during its assembly. Is possible. Specifically, the pull rope 211 can be placed in the inner tubular layer 17a during assembly. This can be seen with reference to FIGS. 47 and 48 showing the assembly of the inner layer 17a. The rope 211 is provided on the reel 309 and is supplied into the inner space 282 in the first former 269, so that the material web 291 providing the inner layer 17a passes through the outer space 281 as shown in FIG. It has become. In this way, the inner layer 17a is formed around the rope 211.

  As shown in FIG. 50, the installation head 21 according to the above embodiment may require a plurality of service lines 310 for providing services such as power, a resin supply unit, and a winch cable. The service line 310 extends from the station 311 located outside the pipeline to the installation head 21 at the end where the installation head 21 approaches during the lining operation. The station 311 accesses the underground pipeline 15 through an access hole 313 in the ground 315. As the installation head 21 approaches the end, the required length of each service line is shortened in stages, so that an extra service line is wound around the reel. In some situations, it may be beneficial to include the length of the surface lines in the pipeline within the containment sleeve 320 to avoid entanglement and other interference between the various surface lines. This can be achieved by a containment sleeve 320 as shown in FIG. The containment sleeve 320 may be formed from a plurality of sleeve sections 321 configured to tie together by a zipper 323 to form a containment sleeve. The sleeve section 321 is opened in stages as the sleeve 320 approaches the station 311 so that the various service lines 310 can be separated for winding on their respective reels 311. Containment sleeve 320 made of a clamped sleeve section may be in the form of a shroud of the type described in US Pat. No. 6,196,766. The pull rope 211 (if used) is not housed in the containment sleeve 320.

  In the various embodiments described above, each chamber 123 was configured to contain air. In another embodiment, the back chamber 123 receives and contains nitrogen (or another suitable gas or mixture of gases) instead of air, thus providing an inert environment where the resin is exposed when subsequently applied. It may be configured as follows.

  In the above-described embodiment, the liner is applied directly to the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15. It may be beneficial to apply a substrate to the inner surface of the pipeline 15 before placing the liner. This can be particularly beneficial when the internal repair condition is poor. The substrate may include a repair and / or sealing compound or a material to enhance the engagement between the liner and the inner surface 13.

  If a substrate is applied to the inner surface 13, an additional holding chamber 100 is provided for this purpose. The substrate material is applied to the inner surface 13 of the pipeline in a manner similar to that in which the resin is applied, i.e., the substrate is applied to the inner surface 13 of the pipeline 15 and wiped. It goes without saying that the chamber used for placement of the substrate or each additional chamber needs to be in front of the chamber used for resin delivery for the purpose of joining the liner in place. The substrate material may be vibrated to optimize deposition on the inner surface of the pipeline.

  The substrate material may be exposed to air.

  In some applications, it may be beneficial for the holding chamber 100 to be divided into segments (eg, an upper segment and a lower segment) each containing a different characteristic resin. For example, it may be desirable to have an upper region of a rigid liner made using a resin that gives one feature to the upper region and a lower region made using another resin that gives a different feature to the lower region. There is also a situation. This may be beneficial in situations where the lower region of the liner needs to have good wear resistance and the upper region needs to have the corrosion resistance of the gas contained within the pipeline.

  In the embodiments described above, the lining applied by the apparatus according to the various embodiments comprises a liner that extends continuously along the length of the pipeline or at least along the extended portion of the pipeline. There may be local degradation of the pipeline that does not require lining of the entire length of the pipeline or an extension of the length of the pipeline. In such a situation, it may be beneficial to simply apply a patch to a local area in the pipeline. This is because when the tube structure is turned over, one or more separate pieces of resin-absorbing material placed in appropriate locations so that a portion of the resin-absorbing material is applied to the inner surface of the conduit where patching is required. This is because it is achieved by forming a tube structure as a membrane at the liner portion. In this arrangement, the tube structure is somewhat similar to the tube structure of the previous embodiment in that it includes an inner layer and an outer layer, but the inner layer is removably attached to the outer layer and requires patching. The difference is that it is discontinuous in the sense that it includes a separate section, each corresponding to one of the local regions. When the tube structure is turned upside down, the resin is applied to each separate liner portion so that the separate liner portion is joined to the inner surface of the pipeline at the relevant local area. When the resin is fully cured, the membrane defined by the second layer is pulled out and left in place in the liner portion as a patch in the pipeline. Alternatively, the membrane may be disposable.

  In this arrangement, resin delivery is appropriately controlled to apply to the liner portion to provide a patch, if necessary, eliminating unnecessary application in other areas that are not required.

  The tube structure is made of a separate portion of the resin-absorbing material that constitutes the first layer disposed at an appropriate location on the membrane that constitutes the second layer of the tube structure. The location for placing a separate piece of resin absorbent material will be determined in a timely manner by survey operations and other analyzes of the pipeline.

  It may also be necessary to apply the patch as a strip that extends along the longitudinal length of the pipeline or along at least part of its length without having to line the entire pipeline. is there. This can be accomplished in a manner similar to the patching operation described above, with the strip of resin absorbent material comprising the first layer placed at the appropriate location on the membrane comprising the second layer of the tube structure. It is different only in that it is done. The strip will then be applied to the pipeline in a manner similar to a separate patch as described above.

  From the foregoing, it is clear that embodiments of the present invention provide a simple and highly efficient arrangement for properly “wetting out” the tube being turned over to the pipe during installation of the liner 11. .

  Improvements and modifications may be incorporated without departing from the scope of the invention.

  Throughout this application, unless stated otherwise, the word “comprise” and variations such as “comprises” and “comprising” are meant to include the specified integer or group of integers, but any other integer or integer Note that the group is not excluded.

2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the apparatus according to the first embodiment during operation of installing a liner in a pipeline; FIG. It is a fragmentary sectional side view of the apparatus which installs a liner in a pipeline. It is a fragmentary perspective view of the apparatus which installs a liner in a pipeline. It is a fragmentary sectional view of the rear end part of an installation head. It is a fragmentary sectional view of the middle part of an installation head. It is a fragmentary sectional view of the front end part of an installation head. It is a partial cross section side view which shows the wiper seal which forms the part of an installation head and is shown in the normal state. FIG. 8 is a view similar to FIG. 7 except that the wiper seal in a deflected state is shown. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a tube structure providing a liner, shown with the tube folded. It is a fragmentary sectional view of the rear end part of the installation head of the device by a 2nd embodiment. It is a fragmentary sectional view of the rear end part of the installation head of the device by a 3rd embodiment. It is a fragmentary sectional side view of the rear-end part of the installation head of the apparatus by 4th Embodiment. FIG. 13 is a view somewhat similar to FIG. 12 except that the suction line in the installation head is shown in an expanded state. It is a fragmentary perspective view of the apparatus by 5th Embodiment. FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing a partially cut-out state of the delivery chamber forming a portion of the apparatus shown in FIG. 14 with the folded tube structure passing through. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional side view of the delivery chamber shown in FIG. 15. FIG. 15 is a partial view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 14 showing a guide roller for guiding the folded tube structure. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a delivery chamber of an apparatus according to a sixth embodiment. It is a partial front view of the apparatus by 7th Embodiment. FIG. 20 is a schematic view of a hermetically tightened seal mechanism for use with the apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 21 is a schematic view of a suction line shown in a retracted state and incorporated in the apparatus shown in FIG. 20. FIG. 22 is a view similar to FIG. 21 except that the suction line is shown in an expanded state. FIG. 21 is a schematic end view of a brake slide structure forming part of the device shown in FIG. 20. FIG. 24 is a view similar to FIG. 23 except that the brake slide structure is shown on a slightly larger scale. It is a side view of a brake slide structure. FIG. 9 is a schematic side view of an apparatus according to an eighth embodiment. FIG. 27 is a partial perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 26 for installing a liner in a pipeline. FIG. 27 is a partial side view of the rear end portion of the installation head of the apparatus shown in FIG. 26. FIG. 29 is a view similar to FIG. 28 showing an apparatus for installing a liner without using an installation cable. FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a tube structure for use with an apparatus according to any of the above embodiments in a folded state having two opposing concave folds. It is the schematic which shows the edge part in the inside-out of the folded pipe structure shown in FIG. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram for comparing the end of the folded tube structure of the type shown in FIG. 9 of the first embodiment during turning over; FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a further variation of the tube structure in a folded state having a plurality of opposing concave folds. It is a schematic sectional drawing of the further modification of the folded pipe structure. FIG. 35 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a tube structure of the type shown in FIG. 34 installed in a pipeline to provide a lining. FIG. 35 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an apparatus used to deliver the tube structure shown in FIG. 34 to a pipeline. FIG. 31 is a schematic front view of a production system for manufacturing a pipe structure of the type shown in FIG. 30. FIG. 38 is a schematic view of a former used in the system shown in FIG. 37. It is the schematic which shows the structure of the inner layer of a pipe structure. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an inner layer folded around a former. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating the assembly of the outer layer around the inner layer to provide a tube structure. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a former used to assemble an outer layer of a tube structure around an inner layer. It is a schematic plan view of the folding mechanism for performing folding operation with a pipe structure. FIG. 6 is a schematic plan view of an inner former that forms part of a folding mechanism. FIG. 6 is a schematic end view of an inner former. It is a schematic plan view which shows the folding mechanism in operation | movement for performing folding operation | movement to a pipe structure. It is the schematic which shows the assembly of the inner layer of the pipe structure provided with the installation cable. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a former used to introduce an installation cable into the inner layer of the tube structure during assembly. FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a supply pipeline assembly included in a containment sleeve and used to deliver service to the installation head of the apparatus according to any of the embodiments described above. FIG. 5 is a schematic front view showing assembly of the supply pipeline and positioning of the containment sleeve around it.

Claims (35)

A device for lining the inner surface of a conduit,
A body configured to move stepwise along the conduit;
A flexible tube structure that is inverted inside the conduit for installation on the inner surface of the conduit;
With
The body is
A contact surface that receives the action of the tube structure during turning over the tube structure;
Means for sensing and / or monitoring selected conditions in connection with installation of the flexible tubular structure;
Means to change the installation as necessary according to such conditions;
Equipped with the device. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the selected conditions is sensed and / or monitored with respect to the contact surface . The at least one of the selected conditions is sensed and / or monitored by movement of the contact surface in response to pressure exerted on the contact surface by the portion of the tube structure that is turned over. The apparatus of claim 2. 4. An apparatus according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the contact surface comprises means for delivering a reagent to the part of the tube structure being turned inside out . The apparatus according to claim 4 , wherein the reagent delivery means includes a plurality of ports on the contact surface, and the ports communicate with the reagent supply unit . The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the body comprises a plate defining the contact surface, the plate having an opening incorporating the port . The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6 , wherein the plate is supported immovably . The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the plate is elastically supported to move in response to contact with the portion of the tube structure that is turned inside out . 9. The apparatus of claim 8, further comprising means corresponding to movement of the plate for adjusting delivery of the reagent to the inside-out portion of the tube structure . The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the means corresponding to the movement of the plate comprises a proximity switch for detecting the movement of the plate . The apparatus according to claim 4 , wherein the reagent includes a curable resin, and the tube structure includes a resin absorbing material . The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the plate has a surface that faces the contact surface and forms a boundary of a resin chamber that feeds resin to the contact surface through the port . The apparatus according to claim 11 or 12 , wherein the main body includes equipment for applying resin to the inner surface . The apparatus of claim 13 , wherein the body comprises a surrounding chamber that contains a resin that is exposed on the inner surface and that is wiped on the inner surface . The peripheral chamber is defined between two spaced apart seals for sliding contact with the inner surface and an inner wall extending between the two seals. 14. The apparatus according to 14 . The apparatus of claim 15 , wherein the inner wall is defined by a flexible membrane . 17. The apparatus of claim 14, 15 or 16 , wherein the body further comprises one or more additional chambers that are axially spaced adjacent to each other along the body . 18. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims , wherein the body incorporates a front section for performing preparatory work on the inner surface of the conduit . Wherein the front portion of the device, collecting means for collecting the debris in the conduit prior to installation of the pipe structure is incorporated, according to any one of claims 1 18. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the tube structure is delivered to the main body in a folded state . 21. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein the tube structure is adapted to be opened from the folded state during turning over . 22. Apparatus according to claim 20 or 21, wherein the folded state comprises at least one concave fold . While in the folded state, in order to assist the movement in the axial direction, said folded tubular structure installed cables are al provided, according to claim 20, 21 or 22. 24. Apparatus according to any one of claims 20 to 23 , further comprising means for forming a wet-out region in the folded tube structure prior to turning over . The means comprises a lance structure projecting outwardly from the contact surface and terminating at a free end, wherein the folded tube structure is moved toward the contact surface for turning over, the lance structure being 25. The apparatus of claim 24, surrounding the lance structure for insertion into a tube structure . 26. The apparatus of claim 25 , wherein the free end of the lance structure is configured to spread a folded wall of the tube structure to create a cavity for receiving resin . 27. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims , wherein the body is configured to move along the conduit under the application of a driving force . 28. The apparatus of claim 27, wherein the driving force comprises pressure applied to the body through the tube structure being turned over . 30. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein the driving force further comprises a traction force applied to the body . 30. The apparatus of claim 27, 28 or 29, further comprising means for applying a deceleration force to the body . 31. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein the deceleration force is operatively connected to the body and applied via a brake sled that is in frictional engagement with the inner surface of the conduit . A method of lining the inner surface of a conduit,
Placing a body and tube structure inside the conduit;
Flipping the tube structure inside the conduit to form an inside-out portion, slidably engaging the inside-out portion of the tube structure with a contact surface of the body, Providing and impregnating a curable resin to the part being turned over, and installing the tube structure on the inner surface of the conduit;
Sensing and / or monitoring conditions selected in connection with installation of the flexible tube structure and modifying the installation process in response to such conditions;
Wherein the step of sensing and / or monitoring and changing the installation process includes means for sensing and / or monitoring selected conditions associated with the installation of the liner and such as incorporated in the body A method executed by means for changing the installation process according to various conditions . 35. The method of claim 32, wherein at least one of the selected conditions is sensed and / or monitored with respect to the contact surface . 33. The at least one of the selected conditions is sensed and / or monitored by movement of the contact surface in response to pressure exerted on the contact surface by a portion of the tube structure that is turned over. The method described in 1 . 35. The method of claim 34, further comprising the step of adjusting delivery of the curable resin to be supplied to the inside-out portion in response to movement of the contact surface .

Images