Overseeing A Seal Installation

Overseeing A Seal Installation

Market

Drinking Water

Challenge

A leak was discovered in a 96″ drinking water pipe in Montreal, Canada. A trenchless solution was preferred to avoid the cost of dig and repair methods.

An entrance to a drinking water pipe
A light being shone on a separated joint in a drinking water pipe
A separated joint in a drinking water pipe
An entrance to a drinking water pipe
A separated joint in a drinking water pipe
An entrance to a drinking water pipe
A light being shone on a separated joint in a drinking water pipe
A separated joint in a drinking water pipe

Engineered Solution

A single double-wide HydraTite Internal Pipe Joint Seal with a test valve, backing plate, and three retaining bands, was the selected method to rehabilitate this joint without excavation.

Scope

HydraTech personnel oversaw this installation and instructed the client step by step. The interior surface of the pipe near the joint was prepared for installation by eliminating irregularities. The backing plate was positioned over the joint and held loosely in place with a retaining band. The rubber seal was then worked into position. The retaining bands were then put into position, expanded to pressure, and locked in place. The air test valve was then opened and air was pumped behind the rubber. A soapy solution was then applied around the edge of the rubber and inspected for bubbles. Initially, bubbles were found, denoting an area of concern. Adjustments were made and the seal was again air tested. This time no bubbles formed. The project was completed in less than 8-hour work day.

A backing plate over a joint in a drinking water line
A rubber seal loosely held in place with a retaining band that is not yet locked

Solution

This large-diameter pipe was rehabilitated in very little time at a fraction of the cost associated with other repair options. This seal will prevent leaks at this joint for a lifetime.


Bubbles escaping from underneath a HydraTite seal, denoting minor alternations needed
HydraTite installed with three retaining bands inside a drinking water line
HydraTite installed in a dark drinking water pipe