By rdnewsNOW staff

What Lies Beneath

Cure-In-Place-Pipe Program described as cost-effective sewer/storm solution for Lacombe

Jun 12, 2024 | 9:24 AM

The City of Lacombe’s CIPP (Cure-In-Place-Pipe) program, which will run throughout May and June 2024, is described by City officials as a long-term, cost-effective solution for public infrastructure in the community.

Officials say the CIPP Program uses a method of renewal that allows for the installation of a lining on the interior of existing aging sewer mains.

“The City of Lacombe is always looking to ensure our infrastructure is safe, modern, and economically friendly to our residents,” explains mayor Grant Creasey. “The CIPP program allows us to extend the effective lifespans of our sewer and stormwater systems without expansive dig operations, which are time-consuming and affect the wallets and commutes of our citizens.”

The advantages of this program are said to include:

• The extension of the life of sewers and stormwater systems in a cost-effective way – cheaper than replacement;

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• Avoiding the need to dig up roads and alleyways;

• Reducing infiltration into the pipes during storm events, which helps lower the cost of pumping the sanitary sewer system;

• Minimizing the impacts of road construction on residents (One day vs 6-10 weeks); and

• Better performance of the existing pipes.

In the CIPP process, officials say the interior of the sewer main is first cleaned using various tools, including high-pressure washers and scrapers. The City says this cleaning removes sediment, tuberculation, and buildup to create a smooth surface. Furthermore, the liner is saturated with a thermos-setting resin and inserted into the existing sewer main. Following installation, the liner is cured using hot air or hot water until hardened.

According to City officials, sewer service connections are re-instated using a robot that cuts a plug out of the liner from the pipe’s interior at each service location. Finally, in addition to laboratory testing of liner samples, the liner quality is inspected using a closed-circuit TV camera to identify any deficiencies. Residents affected by this process will be notified through letters and door hangers.

While utility crews are working in your neighbourhood, residents are asked to refrain from:

• Washing clothes or dishes;

• Taking showers or baths;

• Flushing toiles; and

• Operating sump pumps that are connected to the sewer system.

Any disruptions to traffic will be shared on social media and available online at https://www.lacombe.ca/441/Construction-Projects-and-Notices.

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