An innovative technology is currently being used in Sibiu, one that eliminates discomfort for residents when it comes to replacing water networks.
No more need for digging up streets or blocking traffic, as local authorities have turned to a technology called „relining.” More precisely, it involves building new pipes inside the old ones.
The pilot project started in Sibiu, in the area of Calea Poplăcii - Ștrand neighborhood, as reported by the local publication Turnul Sfatului.
How does it work? First, access points are dug into the water network, allowing Austrian workers to reach the water-drained pipes. Using cameras mounted on "robots," the inside of the old pipes is inspected. Then, the pipes are cleaned of deposits with high-pressure jets. Next, the "robots" come back for inspection.
Subsequently, a composition of fiberglass and polyethylene is inserted into the pipes. With the help of steam pushed at high temperatures and pressures, this composition forms a film that molds to the inside of the pipes. In essence, a new pipe is built inside the old one.
And the new pipes constructed inside the old ones have a lifespan of 50 years.
"These works are currently taking place in the networks where there are cast iron pipes, structures much more vulnerable especially in joint areas, which are now being addressed in this way. Through these rehabilitations, the transport capacity also increases, as there is no longer the roughness presented by the old cast iron pipes," stated Vasile Maier, the general director of Apă Canal SA.
After Sibiu, the whole team is moving to Gura Râului for the same operation.
"The town hall of Gura Râului did not give us permission to dig there, as the streets are narrow and their closure would isolate certain communities. Therefore, in Gura Râului, we will also rehabilitate the pipeline over a four-kilometer stretch using this technology," said Vasile Maier.
It is an expensive technology, but ultimately the costs are about the same as in the case of traditional works.
"The advantage is primarily that we eliminate the discomfort of citizens: traffic is not disrupted, the specific noises of construction sites are eliminated, and all the associated inconvenience. In addition, the time required for these rehabilitations is shorter than in the case of 'classic' construction sites," added the director.
