Pitch fibre pipes were mainly used between the 1950s to 1970s. They were considered a more affordable option when compared with any other clay material, which was about 8-foot lengths which were easy to install. It is made up of wood cellulose mixed with coal tar under high pressure. These are considered a much cheaper, lightweight option than any other expensive clay pipes used. Any drainage channel, pitch fibre, plastic, or clay, is prone to stress and pressure. So to keep the drains in check, one can use a CCTV drain survey to get an idea of the condition of the pipes.
What Is A Pitch Fibre Drainage System?
Pitch fibre drains comprise a natural base (cellulose/wood) made into a tube filled with bitumen. Pipes are even strengthened with asbestos fibers to improve quality and efficiency. They are cheap when compared to any other pipe present today. Pitch fibre pipes have an estimated life of about 40 years. Delamination means the lack of adhesion from the layers, so layers divide, making the tube weaker and more prone to damage. The process of deteriorating is slow, which gradually happens over the years because of temperature or chemicals.
Fibre Drainage Cleaning Method
Pitch fibre drains are subjected to more stress and pressure, and when during a jet spray, cleaning or rodding can often lead to blister the inner layers of the pipe. As the layers get removed, the structure of the tube also gets affected. The drain lining of the tubes can be relined with polyester, and the operator will cover the cracks and holes. There is also an option of patch lining, including covering up holes and cracks using a patch. The most reliable and effective way to control the drainage system is to get a drain survey done. CCTV will help to identify the problem in the drains.
Repairing The Fibre Drainage System
After assessing the condition of the pipes, then the worker can decide only the proper repairing method, some methods might fail, but first, the lines have to be investigated. If the primary issues are internal blistering with no shape loss, the drain lining can be modified using the Cipp lining method. But if there has been a significant change in the shape and structure of the pipe, then pipe bursting will be the best way to renew. Each repairing method has its merits and demerits, and the operator should do a detailed CCTV drain survey to see the exact issue.
Repairing the channels is more affordable and less intrusive than digging and reconstructing the sewers entirely. It is also a more sustainable approach as it would get repaired rather than replaced, which would be more eco-friendly. However, sometimes it’s better to replace when the pipes when they can’t be fixed. Delamination is a severe obstacle for fibre drains; if the issues are left unsolved, tubes will fall entirely. However, if you notice any problem within 40 years, it can be resolved.
