Introduction
Project Name: Pitch Fibre Re-Rounding and Lining
Client: Maxys Homes LTD
Date: June 2025
Service Type: Trenchless Drain Rehabilitation
Client Overview
The client contacted Express Commercial Solutions to address ongoing drainage issues within the property’s foul water system. The existing pitch fibre pipework had deteriorated over time, causing deformation and restricting flow through the drainage network.
Project Overview
In June 2025, Express Commercial Solutions was commissioned to investigate and repair a section of pitch fibre pipework between two manholes (MHA and MHB), spanning approximately 11 metres. The goal was to restore the internal diameter and structural integrity of the pipe without the need for full excavation or replacement.
Investigation
The project began with High-Pressure Water Jetting (HPWJ) to clear the drain of any obstructions and debris, allowing for a detailed CCTV inspection of the internal condition.
The survey revealed that the 100mm pitch fibre pipe was severely delaminated and deformed along its entire 11-metre run, compromising its hydraulic capacity and posing a risk of collapse.
Recommended Solution
Express Commercial Solutions proposed a no-dig rehabilitation approach consisting of:
- Re-rounding the pipe using specialist winching equipment to restore the internal diameter to 100mm.
- Installing a structural liner to permanently reinforce the pipe and prevent future deformation.
This trenchless method offered a cost-effective and minimally invasive alternative to excavation, significantly reducing disruption to the client’s property.
Scope of Work
The works were carried out in the following sequence:
- Set up winch system at the receiving manhole.
- Winch re-rounding tools through the drain from MHA to MHB, using progressively larger re-rounders to restore the pipe’s shape.
- CCTV inspection of the re-rounded pipe to confirm suitability for lining.
- High-Pressure Water Jetting to remove residual debris and prepare the pipe surface.
- Insertion of an 11m, 100mm structural drag liner, left to cure in situ.
- Final CCTV survey to verify the liner installation and confirm flow restoration.
Challenges
- Severe deformation: The original pitch fibre pipe exhibited significant internal collapse, posing a risk during re-rounding.
- High-risk operation: Due to the condition of the pipe, there was a possibility of failure during re-rounding, which the client was advised of prior to works.
Despite these challenges, the project was successfully completed using advanced trenchless rehabilitation techniques and experienced operatives.
Health and Safety
All works were conducted in full compliance with the Health and Safety at Work Act (1974) and HSE regulations.
Safety measures included:
- Method statements and risk assessments for each work phase.
- Use of appropriate PPE (hard hats, high-visibility clothing, gloves, and eye protection).
- Confined space entry procedures and atmospheric monitoring where applicable.
Outcome
The re-rounding and lining works successfully restored the full structural integrity and hydraulic performance of the 100mm drain. The no-dig solution avoided the need for costly and disruptive excavation, providing the client with a long-term, maintenance-free repair.
Conclusion
This project demonstrates Express Commercial Solutions’ expertise in advanced drainage rehabilitation, offering sustainable and non-intrusive repair solutions for deteriorating pitch fibre systems.
Through the combination of precision engineering, safety compliance, and technical innovation, the team successfully delivered a durable, efficient, and environmentally conscious outcome for the client.
