Doesn’t adding an epoxy lining to pipes make them narrower? Wouldn’t that mean that there would be less water flowing through and at higher pressure?

-Patrick

Patrick, depending on the diameter of the pipe, the epoxy coating is applied to a thickness between 0.20 and 5 millimeters, resulting in a corresponding reduction in interior pipe diameters. Applied to these specifications, it has never caused velocity or delivery problems in systems. In fact, cured epoxy’s surface is so smooth that it creates less friction than new copper. So even with the reduced diameter caused by the coating, the flow rate is actually greater than an uncoated pipe. We have upgraded over 12,000 suites during the past 10 years, and to date we have not had a velocity or flow problem.

The existing copper pipes in your building may already have a coating of copper oxide (green scale), galvanized steel pipes may have extensive corrosion and buildup. While the corrosion build up in copper pipes may not be as thick as the epoxy lining we apply, the corrosion currently coating your pipes can be extremely rough, causing turbulence and reduced water flow.

By contrast, lined pipes are glassy smooth. This offers little restriction to water flow. Most importantly, unlike new pipes, they remain glassy smooth over the years and never restrict water flow.

-Brian

Do city and county governments approve of using CuraFlo epoxy pipe lining, or any other companies’ epoxy pipe lining?

-Don

Don, the epoxies we use for the lining of plumbing systems have been tested and certified to meet the ANSI/NSF Standard 61 which is the strictest health standard for products coming in contact with drinking water. Based on this certification, Regional Health Authorities have approved the lining.Epoxy lining processes can also be certified to meet industry-recognized standards. Our lining process is certified to meet IGC-189, which is the standard set by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO). The codes established by this organization are recognized and adopted by many regional authorities.

Many regional municipalities have been using epoxy lining in their own water mains and reservoirs since the early 1990’s and in water treatment plants since the 1950’s. They value this technology for its ability to preserve water quality and restore and protect easily eroded and corroded surfaces.

Special note: A mechanical engineer with an understanding of epoxies, corrosion and metallurgical experience is your best bet for a detailed evaluation of your existing plumbing system. They can test review and write the specifications for the epoxy lining (upgrading) of your water delivery system.

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