Experts from the fields of construction, mechanical engineering and web technology have combined to create a state-of-the-art solution for the trenchless rehabilitation of pressure pipes. Raedlinger Primus Lineå¨ provides a trenchless relining technology that is characterised by flexibility, portability, a light weight and low wall thickness – all while having the material strength of a steel pipe. Raedlinger Primus Line can transport different fluids such as potable water, natural gas, crude oil, salt water, kerosene and even some fluids containing abrasive components. The relining hose is produced in nominal diameters from 150 to 500 mm and can withstand pressures of up to 62 bar.
Composition and installation
The Raedlinger Primus Line hose consists of three different layers. The inner layer of the hose can be selected based on the specific fluid to be transported. The middle layer consists of a seamless aramid fabric which functions as a static load-bearing layer. For higher pressures, a second layer of the aramid fabric can be added. The outer layer is made of wear-resistant polyethylene, regardless of the transported fluid, and protects the middle layer during the installation process.
The Raedlinger Primus Line hose is inserted into the host pipe from small construction pits and is self-supporting. The hose is not attached to the host pipe and an annular space remains between Raedlinger Primus Line and the host pipe. Specially developed connectors on each end connect the hose to the host pipe with flanges or welded ends. Raedlinger Primus Line offers two types of connections: a high pressure connector and a low pressure connector.
The high pressure connector consists of a contoured internal core and external sleeve. The external sleeve has a malleable steel jacket on the inside. A two-component resin which is injected through a valve on the external sleeve forces the steel sleeve and hose into the contours of the internal core. Thus, a durable and pull-proof connection is achieved. The low pressure connector works like the high pressure systems, but uses mechanical force instead of the two-component resin. A durable and pull-proof connection can be achieved for operating pressures up to 28 bar and sizes from 150 to 300 mm.
Unique characteristics
Raedlinger Primus Line has a range of unique characteristics. Due to the hose’s flexibility, bends of up to 45 degrees can be negotiated and installation lengths of up to 2,000 m in one step can be achieved. Therefore fewer construction pits are needed and additional cost and time savings can be achieved. Further, pipelines that run in difficult to access areas with long insertion lengths (such as siphon pipelines) can be rehabilitated with this trenchless relining method. Since the hose is self-supporting and is not glued to the existing pipe, a rough cleaning of the host pipe will suffice.
Consequently, time and energy for the activation of adhesives can be saved. Additionally, the hose is delivered on a drum which can hold up to 4,500 m, reducing space requirements on-site. Lastly there is little need for machinery on-site. With its reduced mobility costs and small footprint, Raedlinger Primus Line is ideal for high traffic areas. The connectors, specifically designed for the Primus Line hose, can be installed in a short period of time. Raedlinger Primus Line has a minimum life span of 50 years.