Manhole Equipment And Rehabilitation

Manhole Equipment And Rehabilitation
The A-LOK Premium flexible rubber pipe-to-manhole connector

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Taking measures to rehabilitate faulty manholes rather than installing new structures can lead to substantial savings for municipalities. Here are several lining systems, sealants and epoxies, manhole components and installation safety equipment designed to aid in rehabilitation.

Manhole Liners

Concrete pipe lining system

The CentriPipe structural concrete pipe lining system from AP/M PERMAFORM provides a no-dig solution for underground infrastructure rehabilitation. It uses a bidirectional spincaster to centrifugally compact a precision liner at the proper design thickness for the size, shape and conditions of deteriorated pipe. It inhibits rust, waterproofs and seals, is resistant to abrasion, and structurally reinforces and protects round, arched and elliptical pipe. It is professionally applied through a global network of certified applicators. 800/662-6465; www.centripipe.com.

Polyurea-based lining system

The PolySpray polyurea-based lining system from HydraTech Engineered Products resembles spray-applied plastic. It provides abrasion and corrosion resistance and is utilized in applications that require a tough, high-build lining. The rugged, but flexible, properties provide a coating ideally suited to withstand mechanical shock, and the snap cure allows for immediate return to service. The environmentally friendly lining can be spray-applied to various thicknesses and cures in minutes. The application can be used as a structural repair to partially deteriorated culverts or manholes, or as a protective barrier to degraded inverts. It resists fracture to impact or load, exposure to most chemicals, reduces wear and extends life of the system, enables an immediate return to service, complies with ASTM F-1216 and ASTM A849, and has a 50-year design life. 513/827-9169; www.hydratechllc.com.

Spray-applied structural lining system

The EcoCast centrifugally cast, spray-applied structural lining system from Inland Pipe Rehabilitation combines application equipment with a custom-formulated geopolymer for consistent application and long-term performance. It can restore concrete, brick or corrugated metal storm and sewer pipes and manholes, and noncircular infrastructure. It is an effective solution for infrastructure with limited access, and large-diameter applications starting at 36 inches and up. 855/832-6477; www.teamipr.com.

Stretchable manhole system

The stretchable CIPMH manhole lining system from LMK Technologies produces a cured-in-place seal that resists freeze/thaw conditions. It fits all manholes including barrel sections, eccentric and concentric cones constructed of brick and mortar, precast or block. Since it utilizes a stretchable liner, site preparation and installation can occur in the same day, eliminating lead time for ordering. It can be installed as a chimney seal or full-depth manhole lining. Once the liner has been vacuum impregnated and manually inverted into the manhole, it will cure ambiently under pressure in one to two hours depending on depth. 815/433-1275; www.lmktechnologies.com.

Two-component lining system

The two-component lining system from Madewell Products Corp. consists of a high-build restoration mortar and a 100 percent solids epoxy corrosion barrier coating. First the mortar is shot onto a damp substrate, using the water on the surface to achieve a strong bond. Then an epoxy topcoat is applied while the mortar is still soft, and the two materials cure together. The final result is a strong and corrosion-resistant monolithic lining that provides a continuous surface. The mortar and topcoat are tightly bonded to the substrate and each other. This system eliminates the need to dry the structure prior to mortar application. The need for a second mobilization to apply the epoxy after the mortar has cured is also eliminated because the two materials cure simultaneously. 800/741-8199; www.madewell.net.

Manhole rehabilitation liner

Manhole rehabilitation liner from Perma-Liner Industries is universally sized and engineered to create a structural cured-in-place seal to fit all manholes, including barrel sections, eccentric and concentric cones constructed of brick and mortar, precast or block. The vacuum-powered, resin-impregnated liner is inverted manually into the manhole and uses an inflation device to press it against the existing wall, forming it to the shape of the manhole. Excess resin migrates into imperfections, where the liner is sealed and mechanically held in place. The cured-in-place liner is engineered to resist freeze-thaw cycles and create a watertight, corrosion-resistant structural lining that eliminates infiltration and inflow. Depending on chimney or depth, cure times will occur within 1 to 2 hours ambient. 866/336-2568; www.perma-liner.com.

Life-extending lining system

The Raven 405 Series from Raven Lining Systems provides long-term performance in harsh, damp environments. Its 100 percent solids, zero VOC polymers demonstrate adhesion, low porosity and high chemical and abrasion resistance. It stops recurring inflow and infiltration, with ultra-high build properties that make it ideal for overhead and vertical application. It is used on new concrete to protect against corrosion and extend the life of the structure, and can be used on deteriorated structures such as brick, concrete or steel. 800/324-2810; www.ravenlining.com.

Epoxy-modified cement mortar

RestoKrete No. 208 epoxy-modified cement mortar from Sauereisen is a substrate repair material and water-resistant barrier for the prevention of inflow and infiltration in concrete or brick substrates. It can be used when structural integrity needs to be restored, and is designed to fill voids, irregularities and air pockets in concrete. It is pumpable and sprayable, easily applied by spin-cast or straight-shot method, trowelable up to 1/2-inch thickness, moisture tolerant, and compatible with all SewerGard and ConoFlex systems. 412/963-0303; www.sauereisen.com.

Rehabilitation material

Strong-Seal MS-2 C manhole rehabilitation material from The Strong Company is formulated for moderately corrosive applications with a pH of 2.0 or higher. It is a calcium aluminate mix with alkaline-resistant fiberglass reinforcement used to form a structural monolithic liner covering all interior substrate surfaces, stopping inflow, infiltration and exfiltration while restoring structural integrity. It meets or exceeds ASTM testing standards. 800/982-8009; www.strongseal.com.

Sealants

Manhole chimney sealant

EasySeal SG two-component spray-applied urethane sealant from Cretex Specialty Products provides a flexible seal in the grade ring area of manholes to reduce or eliminate frame-chimney inflow. It’s formulated for use in sanitary sewer manholes and allows for quick, easy application with minimal surface preparation. It has elongation, peel strength and tensile strength in excess of 3,000 psi, and is a thixotropic material that gels within seconds of application, allowing for easy material buildup. It is dry to the touch in minutes. It is an alternative to the company’s “Classic” or “LSS” internal manhole chimney seal when the conditions may limit or prevent the use of mechanical seals. 800/345-3764; www.cretexseals.com.

Epoxies

Three-part epoxy-modified ceramic enhanced mortar

MortarTec Ceramico three-part epoxy-modified mortar from Epoxytec is aggregate and ceramic reinforced for surfacing, patching and filling voids and bug holes in concrete substrates. Proper application results in a smooth, hard surface, with ideal adhesive properties. It is generally topcoated with a variety of high-performance epoxies for use in mild to extremely aggressive exposures. It can be used on green concrete, and early topcoating. 877/463-7699; www.epoxytec.com.

Epoxy system

The HydraLiner single base resin epoxy system from HammerHead Trenchless Equipment comes with three choices of curing agent hardeners. Winter Blend is the fastest curing hardener and is ideal for cold weather conditions or for short applications that require a fast return to service. Standard Blend is the customary hardener with an increased working and cure time sufficient for most project applications. Summer Blend is useful in long or large-diameter pipe runs and high temperature applications with a sustained temperature of up to 200 degrees F. The speed of cure for any of the hardeners increases with the addition of heat via hot water, hot air or steam. 800/331-6653; www.hammerheadtrenchless.com.

Concrete and manhole repair epoxy

Infragard concrete and manhole repair epoxy paste from Infrastructure Repair Systems can repair a small area or an entire concrete wall or manhole, stopping both infiltration and exfiltration leaks. It can be simply troweled on, has superior adhesion to either damp or dry surfaces, is corrosion resistant and conforms to any shape. It is a two-part environmentally friendly ambient cure epoxy system that is nonhazardous with zero VOCs. There is no special training needed, and application instructions are included. 877/327-4216; www.irsi.net.

Modified epoxy

Dura-Plate 301, a solvent-free, surface and humidity tolerant two-pack modified epoxy from Sherwin-Williams, can be applied over damp steel without dew point restrictions in treatment facilities with pipe galleries. It protects sweating pipes from corrosion and eliminates odors from coatings that contain high levels of solvent. It is suitable for marginal surface preparation, preventing damage to equipment such as treatment pumps and motors that can be affected by abrasive blasting. 800/524-5979; www.sherwin-williams.com/protective.

Coatings

Structural, spray-applied polyurethane

SprayWall structural spray-applied polyurethane from Sprayroq is a restorative and protective lining solution for wastewater infrastructure with a fast cure time, corrosion- and abrasion-resistant properties, and ability to be applied in any desired thickness in a single pass. Structures can be returned to service rapidly, in some cases within hours. Environmental and climatic factors such as freeze/thaw cycling and humidity or aridness have a minimal effect. It is 100 percent VOC free and has undergone extensive ASTM third-party testing to assure product performance. 800/634-0504; www.sprayroq.com.

Chemical Grouts

Hydrophilic urethane gel chemical grout

AV-254 Gelseal hydrophilic urethane gel chemical grout from Avanti International quickly permeates various soils and cures to create an effective, long-lasting water barrier while providing soil stabilization. It is designed to stop water infiltration into manholes, sanitary and storm sewer mainlines, pipe joints, service laterals and other underground structures by providing support and strengthening surrounding soils. Typical injection techniques are curtain grouting and by remote packer. It is easy to handle, contains no acetone and is nonflammable. It is typically pumped at an 8:1 water to resin ratio, but in injection areas with high water flow it can be pumped without water. 800/877-2570; www.avantigrout.com.

Computerized grouting system

The Easy Grout computerized grouting system from CUES has a graphical user interface that leads the user through the joint testing and grouting processes. The software includes help files, tool tip descriptions, real-time monitoring and recommended settings. The system consolidates all the valves, electrical controls, etc., into a single instrumentation cabinet that can be quickly swapped with a loaner unit if required. Portable, truck- and trailer-mounted grout rehabilitation systems for mainline, manhole and lateral joint sealing feature a full line of CCTV equipment and decision-support software. 800/327-7791; www.cuesinc.com.

Applicators

Spinning application nozzle

The Model 360 hand-held, high-speed, air-powered spinning nozzle from RFI Construction Products is used to apply fine-grain mortars, grouts and epoxies to circular surfaces. It has the capacity to line 4- to 96-inch-diameter pipe, manholes, storage tanks and pipe fittings. Linings can range from 1/8 to 1 inch. This system allows the installer to efficiently increase production safely. Coatings go on with a controlled wall thickness, and the operator stays above ground to spray. 631/752-8899; www.rficonstructionproducts.com.

Safety Equipment

Manhole protection ring

The MPR100 manhole protection ring from H2 Technical Rescue Equipment protects lines from the rough edges of manholes by simply dropping it into the manhole prior to any equipment. It is produced in a highly visible safety orange to help identify the site and the open manhole, reducing potential hazard. It provides a full 360-degree area of edge protection. 517/204-2121; www.h2tr.com.

Rupture-protected domehead plug

Rupture-protected plugs from Lansas have a built-in relief valve that will help prevent the plug from being over inflated. Once the valve cracking pressure is reached, the relief valve opens, allowing excess air pressure to escape. It then resets and reseals just below the required inflation pressure. Over-inflation as a factor in plug failure will be greatly reduced, as the relief valve will allow air to escape in excess of 85 cfm. The relief valve is mounted into the end plate to prevent physical damage when the plug is being transported or installed. It can be used multiple times. A protective sleeve can be added for added protection and extended plug life. 800/452-4902; www.lansas.com.

Manhole rehab pipe plug

Multisize flow-through inflatable pipe plugs from Logiball can be used to divert flows without costly bypass setups, keeping work zones dry. They are ideal for use in manhole rehabilitation jobs, where flow control can be an important part of the cost. 800/246-5988; www.logiball.com.

Manhole cover remover

The Lifter from Rock Mills Enterprises safely and efficiently removes manhole covers and drainage grates with the push of a button. It mounts into a standard 2-inch trailer hitch receiver and is powered by the vehicle battery. A roadway camera and dash-mounted monitor positions it directly over the cover, which can be removed via remote control. With an optional swing arm, the cover can be swung away from the opening and replaced after work is completed without moving the vehicle. 712/451-6550; www.rockmillsent.com.

Pole camera system

The Investigator pole camera system from RS Technical Services provides clear color video for visual assessment of manholes, unsafe areas or structures too small for human entry. It uses two high-intensity LEDs with a 10X optical and 4X digital zoom capability. Mounted on a telescopic fiberglass pole that extends to 21 feet, the head is motorized to provide remote tilt adjustments. All functions are adjustable by the operator from the viewing station. A soft-side bag contains a DVR with integrated display and a 13.2 Ahr lithium-ion battery. It can also be adapted to any RST system to power the unit and send video to the base station for recording and report writing. 800/767-1974; www.rstechserv.com.

Tube holder

The Deep-Vac manhole tube holder from Southland Tool Mfg. eliminates the threat of vacuum tubes extending up in the air. Simply clamp the device around a tube in any location, then lower it into the manhole while supported by the device’s four steel extension arms. Tubes are added by unclamping the device and moving it up and over the next flange connection. The suction boom hose can be connected to the end tube to support the weight as tubes become heavier. The device weighs 10 pounds, and is designed for manholes from 24 to 36 inches, with extensions available for larger openings. 714/632-8198; www.southlandtool.com.

Manhole Parts and Components

Pipe-to-manhole connector

The A-LOK Premium flexible rubber pipe-to-manhole connector ensures sealing pressure under differential loading or pipe deflection. Inside the connector a blend of fibers, binders, polymers and congealing agents create a dynamic fluid that maintains the watertight connection, preventing infiltration and exfiltration in wastewater and stormwater systems while meeting ASTM C-923 and F-2510. Installation is fast and easy since no grouting is required. Just bevel, lube, install and backfill. 800/822-2565; www.a-lok.com.

Heavy-duty hole saw attachment

The HS-57 heavy-duty hole saw skid-steer attachment from Coneqtec Universal removes the collar and surrounding area of concrete and asphalt encasing manhole covers. It reduces the hours required to repair manhole covers to typically 10 to 20 minutes in concrete and twice as fast in asphalt. It has up to a 14-inch-depth cut, improved positioning and optional centering arms. It has heavy-duty hydraulic motors, a hydraulic-powered break-out feature (no rocking or loader break-out), 45 carbide-tipped picks to cut through concrete, asphalt and brick, a self-aligning hydraulic clamp that securely attaches to the collar, and a 57-inch-diameter hole cut. It lifts the collar and surrounding layers of concrete/asphalt when the cut is finished. 888/832-3462; www.coneqtec.com.

Manhole cleaner

Manhole Cleaners from NozzTeq are made of rustproof stainless steel and have two protective guard plates at top and bottom. While they are available in several different sizes, the most popular are 3/4- and 1-inch sizes that connect directly to the hose on a truck. The turbo rotary arm is counterbalanced and precisely equilibrated to withstand high revolutions. Rotating parts are also surrounded by safety guards. They are reinforced with self-lubricating, stainless steel ball bearings with a carbide gasket system, and are designed for a high number of revolutions, ensuring long-lasting durability. Just lower the unit into the manhole and it cleans within minutes. 866/620-5915; www.nozzteq.com.

Annular seals

Multi-Flex annular seals from Petersen Products Co. slip over the end of a pipe to seal between a bypass pipe and the sewer main, simplifying manhole bypass. They can be made for almost any size, pressure, chemical and temperature requirements. They are flexible, easy to install and have many inflation connection options. They are ideal for bypassing a pipeline during repairs or any other temporary small to large pipeline connection. 800/926-1926; www.petersenproducts.com.

Manhole channel system

The Manhole Channel Repair System from RELINER/Duran has a molded fiberglass flume combined with a PVC pipe section used to rehabilitate inverts without flow interruption. Field-installed modular components bolt together with minimal tools, are adaptable to a wide range of field conditions and manhole sizes, and are compatible with current field manhole-lining systems. The full depth lined channels are high flow and easy to maintain. Standard 8- and 12-inch-depth channel sections fit through 24-inch manhole frames and will accommodate 6- through 12-inch pipes. Larger sizes are available. 800/508-6001; www.reliner.com.

Cleaning nozzle

The Alphajet cleaning nozzle from USB – Sewer Equipment Corporation cleans grease, sludge and crusts from lift stations and manholes prior to rehabilitations. It is actuated by water coming from the pressurized hose of the jetter truck. Four driving nozzles enable 360-degree controlled rotation in a horizontal plane, eliminating the need to cover the manhole. The horizontal rotation only allows for observation of the cleaning progress. The body requires no lubrication or replacement of internal mechanical parts within the first 12 months of operation. Driving nozzles can be extended to accommodate various sizes of manholes/lift stations. 866/408-2814; www.usbsec.com.

Lids

Composite manhole cover

Composite manhole covers from Fibrelite Composites are used for applications where corrosion can destroy underground infrastructure. They are available with company logos and other brand markings. Any style logo or other marking can be permanently molded into the upper surface of the cover, in single or multiple colors. They are ideal for branding and product identification, or to blend in with the color or layout of a building, plaza or sidewalk. They can be molded in nearly any color or combination of colors. 860/501-2479; www.fibrelite.com.

Locking manhole cover

FiberShield lightweight locking manhole covers from McGard are constructed of a durable, fiber-reinforced polymer material with multiple security points. They are lightweight and easy to handle and transport, eliminating the lifting and dropping injuries caused by heavy, cast-iron manhole covers. Weighing 80 percent less than cast iron, they exceed an H20 traffic rating. They are installed in seconds and removed without bending over. They require a key to operate, and have no scrap value, eliminating theft. 888/888-9192; www.manholelocks.com.

Inserts

Stainless steel inflow shield

InflowShield manhole cover inserts from Rowland substantially decrease inflow and infiltration. They are custom sized and manufactured from 18-gauge 304 stainless steel. Their deep-dish design allows for easy removal of the manhole cover without contact to the bottom of the insert. Each insert is equipped with a nylon strap or high-grade stainless steel handle. 855/545-3815; www.rowland-inc.com.

Leak-proof manhole insert

SSI Manhole Inserts from Sealing Systems Inc. stop the inflow of rainwater through manhole covers. Sewer evaluation studies indicate that a typical manhole casting will allow an inflow rate from 0.20 to over 5 gpm during rainfall occurrences. Inserts are custom sized to provide an enhanced fit and seal, and are manufactured from an ultra-high-density polyethylene copolymer material known as Marlex HXM 50100. They can be inexpensively installed utilizing in-house collection system maintenance personnel. 800/478-2054; www.ssisealingsystems.com.

Manhole odor filter insert

The Wolverine manhole odor insert from Simple Solutions Distributing eliminates hydrogen sulfide-based odors that eminate from wastewater sewer line manhole covers. It is custom made to exact dimensions to ensure a quality installation and trouble-free operation. Each insert is manufactured from a durable high-density polyethylene copolymer material that meets ASTM Specification Designation D-1248 Class A, Category 5, Type III. The carbon canister is manufactured from PVC and corrosion-resistant components. 866/667-8465; www.industrialodorcontrol.com.

Risers

Riser ring

Manhole riser rings from LADTECH can be installed in minutes. The rings nest together, and include a 2 percent slope ring and a 1/4-inch spacer ring for a precision fit. They’re made of high-density, lightweight recycled polyethylene, meet AASHTO’s HS-25 axle-loading spec, and are impervious to H2S corrosion that destroys concrete. 877/235-7464; www.ladtech.com



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