Pipeline Cleaning
An important part of efficient pipeline maintenance is ensuring the top performance of the pipeline. There are a number of factors that can impact your pipeline performance over time.
The cleanliness of your pipeline can influence how well your pipeline runs. Let’s say your pipeline is showing signs of restricted flow. The cause of this restricted flow is the buildup of debris in your pipeline. Thus, the best solution for your restricted pipeline is to clean it.
The best cleaning method to use in your pipeline system can vary. Generally, the solution you use depends on the type of buildup in your pipeline system.
Keep reading to learn more about the pipeline cleaning services that American Pipeline Solutions offers.
American Pipeline Solutions’ Picote Pipeline Cleaning Process
Before cleaning any pipeline system, American Pipeline Solutions must first determine the issue. To do this, a number of factors and methods can be utilized. Has there been a visual inspection of the inside of the pipe? What is the flow rate? How hard are the pumps working?
Once the issue has been determined, American Pipeline Solutions can choose the most appropriate solution for your pipeline. From pipeline pigging (learn more on our pigging page), to water blasting and rotary head cleaning, American Pipeline Solutions performs a wide variety of cleaning solutions.
While each pipeline cleaning process will vary, we put together our rotary head cleaning process (using a Picote machine) to give you a better understanding.
The first step that APS takes is to shut off the flow going into the pipeline. Once this is done, APS must gain access to the pipe to clean it. This can involve removing a flange, a 90-degree bend or a section of the pipeline.
Next, APS’ team will set up the Picote machine. This is done by plugging the machine in, either to a wall socket or into a generator brought on-site by APS.
With the Picote machine ready, cleaning of the pipe can begin. During the cleaning process, APS uses a bucket under the pipe to catch any sludge or broken down tuberculation.
After the pipe is properly cleaned, APS puts the removed pipeline sections back into place. Then, APS will flush the pipeline to ensure that all tuberculation that wasn’t removed during the cleaning is flushed out. This is an important step to complete before the pipeline can be turned back on. When APS confirms that the pipe has been flushed out, it is turned back on.
APS responded to a call for a failed fire flow test. The condominium complex had heavy tuberculated pipe, and therefore not getting the pressure they needed.
What Types of Pipes Can be Cleaned?
Any type of pipe can be cleaned. Overall, APS has experience in cleaning pipes that range in sizes from 1” to 140”.
Examples of the types of pipes that APS has experience in cleaning include the following:
Cast Iron
Ductile Iron
PVC
HDPE
Fire-lines
Wastewater
Water & Force Mains
This is by no means an exhaustive list of the types of pipes that APS offers pipeline cleaning services for. Customers are welcome to contact APS to learn what pipeline cleaning solution is best for their pipelines.
What are common pipeline issues that APS can address with cleaning services?
The issues you may experience in your pipeline will depend on the type of material that flows through the line. Some common issues that can be addressed by cleaning your pipeline include:
Low flow rates
Flow rates decreasing from the original pipeline’s rate
High pressure in the pipeline
Accumulation of debris
Blockage in the pipeline
Are there preventative measures to stop pipeline buildup?
Once your pipeline has been cleaned, you can take preventative measures to protect the integrity of your pipeline. One method to consider is internal pipe coating. By coating your pipeline, you can avoid emergency pipeline replacement jobs. Additionally, you won’t have to clean your coated pipeline for 30 to 50 years, while an uncoated pipeline must be cleaned after five years.
Are you in need of an efficient pipeline cleaning solution?
Contact the team at American Pipeline Solutions to learn more about our pipeline cleaning services.
