When Sandia National Laboratories, an engineering and science laboratory, was looking to fix their fire suppression main in a non-invasive way, they found an epoxy lining technology to renew and extend the life of the system.
In this situation, the 500 feet of 6 in. fire suppression main consists of ductile and cast iron pipe that runs six feet underneath the foundation and into rise rooms of several buildings. The pipe has 90-degree elbows and a 260-foot section underneath finished concrete and interlocking pavers. Instead of tearing up the ground to access and replace the pipes, Sandia National Laboratories chose the Nu Line process to clean and coat the pipes from the inside.
MIC (Microbiologically Induced Corrosion) caused pinhole leaks, tuberculation and flow reduction in the ductile and cast iron fire suppression main. MIC is common in fire sprinkler systems in buildings, factories and warehouses. MIC can attack all types of metals in a fire sprinkler system, with steel pipe being the most vulnerable.
Working in conjunction with general contractor RMCI, technicians sandblasted the inside of the pipes to get rid of the corrosion in the system. Once complete, the pipes were rehabilitated by applying two evenly coated layers of epoxy inside the pipe. A pressure test was then performed to ensure the pipes were leak-free and the system was reconnected.
Nu Flow Technologies’ epoxy is certified safe to NSF/ANSI Standard 61. The epoxy was developed and patented by the U.S. Navy and has been successfully applicated by Nu Line Certified technicians since the mid-1980s for the U.S. government and in domestic, commercial, industrial and other applications.
Epoxy restoration of pipes systems is a non-invasive process. This process is ideal in preventing damages to the external and internal surrounding of the pipes system. Beyond being a pipe restoration tool to prevent corrosion and leaks, it is also a preventative tool and can extend the lifeline of the piping system.
Using conditioned air, the epoxy coating is applied and evenly distributed through out the pipes. After the pipe is coated, continuous and controlled air is blowing through the pipe to aid with the epoxy-curing process. When the epoxy has cured, valves and coupling are refitted. There is a final inspection to insure the integrity of the pipe system. Water quality, volume and flow test can confirm the functionality of the system.
Nu Line is an epoxy lining technology for potable water systems offered by Nu Flow Technologies. After the pipes go through and intense cleaning, epoxy is blown into the host pipe, evenly coating the metal of existing and damaged pipe. The life expectancy of
Nu Line is 100 years outliving most pipes. The barrier coating will also prevent pinhole leaks and cracks.
Interested in becoming a Nu Line Installer? Contact us today 800-834-9597