How Does an Inversion Drum Work in CIPP Pipe Relining?
Cured-In-Place Pipe (CIPP) relining has revolutionized the way damaged pipelines are repaired. This trenchless technology eliminates the need for excavation, making pipe repair faster, less disruptive, and more cost-effective. One of the essential tools in the CIPP process is the inversion drum, which plays a crucial role in lining the existing pipe with a new, durable interior.
In this blog, we’ll explain how an inversion drum works, why it’s a key component in the CIPP process, and how it ensures the successful restoration of pipelines.
What Is an Inversion Drum?
An inversion drum is a specialized tool used in the CIPP pipe relining process to insert a resin-saturated liner into the damaged pipe. The drum uses air or water pressure to "invert" (turn inside out) the liner as it is pushed through the pipe. This inversion ensures the resin-coated side of the liner adheres perfectly to the interior walls of the existing pipe, creating a seamless new pipe within the old one.
How Does an Inversion Drum Work?
1. Preparing the Liner
Before the inversion drum comes into play, the liner (usually made of felt or fiberglass) is impregnated with a thermosetting resin. The resin is carefully saturated into the liner to ensure even coverage, which is critical for the success of the repair.
2. Loading the Liner
The resin-saturated liner is loaded into the inversion drum, with the resin-coated side positioned to invert during installation. The drum is sealed to ensure proper pressure is maintained throughout the process.
3. Positioning the Drum
The inversion drum is placed at the entrance of the pipe being repaired. Depending on the setup, this could be a manhole, access point, or pipe opening.
4. Inverting the Liner
Once the drum is properly positioned:
- Air or Water Pressure: The drum is pressurized with either air or water to create the force necessary to push the liner into the pipe.
- Inversion: As the liner is pushed out, it inverts (turns inside out), allowing the resin-coated side to adhere to the inner walls of the pipe.
5. Curing the Liner
After the liner is fully inverted and positioned:
- The resin is cured (hardened) using heat, steam, or ultraviolet (UV) light.
- This curing process solidifies the liner, forming a new, durable pipe within the existing one.
Key Features of the Inversion Drum
1. Controlled Pressure
The drum allows precise control of air or water pressure, ensuring the liner is inverted smoothly and without damage. This control is essential for lining pipes with varying diameters or lengths.
2. Versatility
Inversion drums are compatible with a range of liner materials and pipe sizes, making them a versatile tool for CIPP projects.
3. Seamless Installation
The inversion process ensures that the resin-coated side of the liner adheres tightly to the host pipe, eliminating gaps or weak points that could lead to future leaks.
Why Is the Inversion Drum Crucial in CIPP Relining?
1. Minimally Invasive
Using an inversion drum avoids the need for extensive digging, preserving landscaping, driveways, and structures. This makes it an ideal solution for urban and residential areas.
2. Precision
The drum ensures even application of the liner, which is critical for the structural integrity and longevity of the repaired pipe.
3. Efficiency
The inversion drum streamlines the pipe relining process, significantly reducing downtime compared to traditional pipe repair methods.
Applications of Inversion Drums in CIPP
Inversion drums are widely used in:
- Residential Sewer Lines: Quickly repairing damaged pipes under homes or yards.
- Municipal Infrastructure: Restoring large-scale drainage and sewer systems.
- Industrial Pipelines: Addressing wear and tear in factory or plant piping systems.
Final Thoughts
The inversion drum is an indispensable tool in the CIPP pipe relining process. By ensuring precise, efficient, and seamless liner installation, it contributes to the success of this revolutionary trenchless technology. Whether you're dealing with a small residential repair or a large municipal project, the inversion drum plays a key role in restoring damaged pipes with minimal disruption and maximum durability.
At CIPP Global, we specialize in CIPP relining and use state-of-the-art inversion drums and other advanced tools to deliver exceptional results. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help with your pipe repair needs