Link-Pipe Inc.’s Grouting Sleeve - Case Study
Background
Link-Pipe Grouting Sleeve is manufactured by Link-Pipe inc. of Canada. It is a local repair system developed for the structural renovation of gravity sewers.
The system is comprised of a stainless steel structural core, which uses a mechanical lock to hold it against the host pipe, the core is surrounded by an absorbent foam gasket. Limit straps prevent the sleeve from expanding beyond a preset diameter, preventing it from harming the host pipe.
The annular space around the structural core is filled with a polyurethane gasket impregnated with grout on site before the sleeve is installed. Being monitored by a CCTV camera, the sleeve is positioned over the damaged area in the sewer. The air plug is then inflated to expand the sleeve until the locks engage. The air plug is then deflated and withdrawn. The installation is complete. The foaming grout continues to expend to fill the annular space and penetrate pipe cracks.
Scope of assessment
WRc assessed the performance, the strength and effectiveness of the Link-Pipe Grouting Sleevesewer repair system by conducting loading tests on soil-embedded sleeves.
Assessment Program
1. WRc developed an assessment schedule based upon local repair research projects and with reference to the Sewerage Rehabilitation Manual.
2. A technical audit of the product specification, quality control, design method and installation method was undertaken.
3. A test program was undertaken to assess the structural performance of the Grouting Sleeve in the soil-embedded broken vitrified clay pipe.
4. The on-site procedures followed manufacturer’s installation instructions (see: Link-Pipe Manual: Part 2: 21 October 2000)
Testing
The Grouting Sleeve was subjected to an underground loading test to determine its manufacturer claimed capacity to restore the pipe to its original strength.
300mm diameter clay pipes were embedded in non-compacted pea gravel in depth 150mm over the crown of the pipe. The second test was conducted in compacted clay 300mm deep over the crown of the sewer.
A vertical load was then applied through the backfill to the buried pipes until failure occurred in a 4-point break. The test was then continued until pipe deformation reached 10%.
The Grouting SleeveÔs (with strain gauges incorporated in the body of the sleeve) were installed into the broken pipes while the test pressure was applied to the overburden.
The load regime used to break the pipes was then repeated on the repaired pipes.
All locks remained engaged and there was no evidence of damage to the steel core.
It was concluded that the Link-Pipe Grouting SleeveÔ has the capability to reinstate a broken sewer pipe to its original structural strength.
-
Most popular related searches
Customer comments
No comments were found for Link-Pipe Inc.’s Grouting Sleeve - Case Study. Be the first to comment!