Revolutionising Water Infrastructure: Australia’s First Installation of Saertex-Liner H O

Abstract

Maintaining potable water pipes is critical to water authorities and asset owners worldwide to ensure safe, hygienic transportation of water to cities and communities. When accessibility challenges and the need to minimise environmental and community impacts make replacement difficult, trenchless rehabilitation becomes essential. Selecting the right solution was key for the trenchless rehabilitation of the DN463 feeder water main running through a busy street in Geelong, Victoria. Delivered for asset owner Barwon Water, the 388-metre project had to meet strict hygienic standards, minimise costs and disruption, and extend the asset’s service life. The pipeline had deteriorated beyond spot repairs, requiring proactive action to avoid emergency work and reduce community disruption. For this project, SAERTEX-LINER® H O was the selected rehabilitation product – a UV-cured fiberglass-reinforced 2 liner developed specifically for the trenchless rehabilitation of potable water pipes. The principal contractor Total Plumbing Solutions (TPS) executed extensive planning with their suppliers to ensure precise execution of the project. Due to the length of the host pipe and the curing time requirements, the installation was completed in two phases of 194-metre section each. The TPS team of six, with supplier support, finished the installation within a week delivering a new, fully structural, hygienically approved pipe run at an operating pressure of 13 bar. This project showcases the planning, installation, and performance advantages of the utilised UV-cured GRP liner in extending the life of critical potable water assets.

Techniques