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Pipe Restoration Technologies LLC, owner of ACE DuraFlo, has been awarded its fifth patent for methods designed to improve the in-place cleaning and coating of smaller-diameter pipes.
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Pipe Restoration Technologies |
| The patent covers the company’s technology for cleaning and coating interior walls of piping systems. |
US Patent 8,206,783 describes the Santa Ana, CA, company’s enhancements to its barrier coating control methods and systems for interior piping systems.
Cleaning and Coating Process
The patent covers the company’s methods and six-step process for cleaning and providing barrier coatings to interior walls of piping systems.
“An entire piping system can be cleaned in one single pass by dry particulates forced by air and the piping system coated in one single pass,” according to the patent. “Pipes can be protected from water corrosion, erosion and electrolysis.”
The technology is designed for potable water lines, natural gas lines, drains, HVAC and fire sprinkler systems in and supporting institutional, commercial and residential buildings. The pipe lining is about 4 mils. The company says the pipe systems can be returned to service in about 24 to 96 hours.
In-Place Restoration
The patent details 27 objectives of the invention, but the basic goal is to repair interior walls of pipes by cleaning and coating them in place, without having to remove them or disturb the built area around them.
The process is designed for piping systems from about 3/8 inch to six inches. The system is suitable for a variety of piping materials, including galvanized and black steel, lead, brass, copper and composites, according to the patent.
The company says the newly patented process “provides enhanced evacuation of dust and other debris when cleaning, allowing the pipe to be lined in a more consistent manner.” The improved cleaning process also improves coating adhesion, the company says.
About the Process
The company’s patented ePIPE process involves restoring pipes in place with an application of an epoxy barrier coating. The process is designed to prevent pinhole leaks, control corrosion and prevent lead leaching from drinking-water pipes.
The system involves air-drying the pipes with pre-heated, filtered air; cleaning the pipes using an air and abrasive mixture; then applying an epoxy lining to seal and protect the piping system from future corrosion.
“Our research and development team are proud of our ongoing innovation program and this accomplishment,” said CEO Larry Gillanders.
“Focusing on commercializing smart innovative green solutions is part of our ‘Made in America’ philosophy. This patent, added to our existing portfolio of patents and IP supports us in this pursuit.”
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