Research requirements in support of the renovation of pressure and non-pressure pipes

Abstract

In the UK a Trenchless Technology Network (NETTWORK; www.ttn.bham.ac.uk) has been established with the prime objective of gaining a broad consensus between academia and industry on research needs so that collaborative research proposals can be developed to expedite the required information. This paper summarises the initial phase of this work in respect of the renovation of deteriorated pipework by lining. The paper considers pressure and non-pressure pipes in turn, as the factors limiting performance in the two situations are significantly different. In each case current practice and knowledge are first summarised, whence research needs are identified based on the experience of experts from all sides of the pipeline renovation industry. For both classifications of pipe research requirements are identified in the generalised areas of: host pipe condition assessment, lining design, lining installation, and system maintenance.