Inverted Filament Winder for Pipe Lining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pipe lining technologies, such as CIPP and SIPP, face issues with wrinkling, creep failure, and inability to meet Class IV lining standards for long-term hoop strength and resistance to internal pressure, especially in large diameter pipes, due to the limitations of thermosetting polymers and the need for multiple layer applications which increase cost and risk of mechanical failure.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for applying a multi-layer pipe lining structure with spirally or helically wound reinforcement filaments embedded between elastomeric and rigid layers, using UV-curable or heat-curable resin, to enhance hoop strength and reduce creep failure by distributing stress more evenly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If thermosetting polymer linings are applied to meet Class IV lining standards for long-term hoop strength, then the lining can resist internal pressure, but the lining suffers from creep failure under long-term continuous stress
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a composite lining structure combining thermosetting polymer with high-strength fibers (such as glass, carbon, or aramid fibers) arranged in specific orientations. The fiber-reinforced composite material provides enhanced hoop strength and creep resistance, allowing the lining to meet Class IV standards while maintaining long-term reliability under internal pressure loads.
2Strength
If multiple layers of lining are applied to large diameter pipes to achieve required strength, then the structural requirements are met, but the application time and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the reinforcement into discrete high-strength fiber layers with specific orientations (e.g., circumferential, helical, axial) applied in a optimized sequence. This segmentation allows each layer to provide specific structural functions, achieving required strength with fewer layers compared to conventional multi-layer polymer applications, thereby reducing application time and cost.
3Strength
If the lining wall thickness is increased to meet structural requirements, then the hoop strength is improved, but the cross-sectional diameter and flow capacity of the rehabilitated pipe are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameters by using high-strength fibers with superior mechanical properties compared to conventional polymers. This parameter change allows achieving the required hoop strength with significantly reduced wall thickness, thereby maintaining the cross-sectional diameter and flow capacity of the rehabilitated pipe while meeting structural requirements.
4Shape
If CIPP liner material is designed with shorter circumference to remove wrinkles, then the liner smoothness is improved, but annuluses or circumferential gaps are created between the liner and host pipe
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses flexible fiber-reinforced composite material that can accommodate pipe bends and irregularities without wrinkling. The high elongation capability of the fiber composite allows the liner to conform to the host pipe geometry while maintaining smoothness, eliminating both wrinkles and circumferential gaps through proper material selection and layer configuration.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution significantly increases the working life of pipe linings against creep failure and meets Class IV lining standards by reducing stress on the rigid liner, allowing for long-term resistance to internal pressure without compromising flow capacity or increasing costs.
Implementation Method 1
exposing the filament to UV light to set and adhere the filament to the elastomeric layer
Implementation Method 2
UV-curable or heat-curable resin, to enhance hoop strength and reduce creep failure
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe lining apparatus having a settable, resin-impregnated reinforcement filament that is helically wound onto the inner surface of a pipe or pipe lining by an inverted filament winding apparatus, the apparatus having multiple spools and applicator arms to retain and apply the filament. The applicator arms may be aligned circumferentially or axially.