Time and Cost Saving Strategies for Water Pipe Lining Operations

Abstract

Repair and maintenance of existing distribution lines is an increasing concern for water utilities. While pipe lining activities are effective and generally less expensive than complete replacement, they still represent considerable time and expense. This study provides guidance on the best practices to minimize the amount of time that customers are without water service, must endure restricted service, or are served by less secure networks due to pipe lining activities. Nine utilities provided benchmarking data to identify efficient operations. Statistical analysis indicates that minor changes to task sequencing and materials may improve efficiencies by several hours to several days. However, in order to obtain a rapid lining operation, utilities must promote extensive changes to pipe lining philosophy and to the disinfectant approach. While a rapid disinfectant approach (less than