Re-Lining of Pipes Across Denver

Relining of Denver's water mains resumes this summer, a rehabilitation program necessary to maintaining the system for our cutomers. When the work is completed in the fall, 22,000 feet of 6", 10" and 12" mains will have been relined.

Denver Water must recondition sections of its water system to ensure continued dependable water service. Over time, pipes develop sediments and mineral deposits, such as rust and calcium. Periodic flushing of the mains removes most of this deposit, but eventually the pipes must be scoured, much like the hull of a ship. Since the pipes are deep underground and not easily accessible, this kind of maintenance had been difficult and disruptive before adoption of a new relining method, trenchless rehabilitation.

Trenchless rehabilitation reduces access problems. Because the work is underground and conducted from small trenches, intrusion on the streets is minimal. The process scrapes mineral deposits from the interior of mains using a device similar to a heavy-duty plumber's snake. Once the pipe is scraped clean, workers guide a hose that injects a thin layer of epoxy resin along the interior of the water main, creating a new lining and inner seal.

Reconditioning of the pipes maintains the delivery of water to homes and businesses, and supports essential fire protection. The process improves water flow, ensures high water quality, and increases the life of the pipe.

Pipe on the left is scraped clean of mineral deposits.

Residents and businesses along affected routes are being supplied with temporary water supplies because the water main must be taken out of service to be relined. During the process, temporary alternative pipelines are laid on affected streets to maintain continued water supplies.

Note: Large amounts of water with high cocentrations of chlorine-based disinfectant are used to flush the pipe at the end of the lining process. If you have questions about the mortar lining project, please call 303-628-6553.

Source: mortarwork.html