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Addressing A Leaky Pipe: Temporary Solutions for Municipal Water & Sewer Systems

How do you temporarily stop a leaking pipe?

Performing temporary repair on a leaky pipe within a municipal system can be a challenging procedure, especially if it’s an emergency leak. Once the severity of the leak and its potential impact on customers and/or traffic is determined, a convenient and cost-effective solution needs to be devised and implemented to restore the service and minimize downtime.

In order to ensure an effective temporary solution, the technicians tasked with the municipal pipe repair need to use high-quality equipment and products that meet the needs of the specific situation. Whether it’s a pinhole leak requiring immediate repair or a severe crack that needs a Hymax repair clamp, it is essential that the solution is carefully considered and implemented according to the relevant state procedures and protocols.

How do you temporarily stop a leaking pipe?

Once first responders investigate a reported leak, they typically classify it as an emergency or non-emergency leak depending on the level of the nature and severity of the leak, the hazard posed to the public, and the potential damage to roadways or property. In case of an emergency leak, the result is usually immediate response that often entails a temporary repair or replacement solution for the pipe.

The exact procedure will depend on the specific requirements of the situation. In general, if the affected section of the pipe can be repaired, a specialized clamp will be installed to temporarily stop the leak. If the pipe crack is more extensive, a suitable replacement is used to maintain temporary service until a more long-term solution is devised and implemented. The temporary piping replacement must:

  • Be made from materials that do not compromise the water quality
  • Conform to the same quality standards as the permanent piping
  • Installed in a sanitary and dependable manner
  • Have the necessary certifications and comply with relevant standards pipes and hoses must be performed in accordance

How do you seal a water leak under pressure?

Since water in underground pipes in a municipal water distribution system is normally under pressure, it will spray out with significant force if there is a leak. Naturally, an extensive leak in a water system can cause substantial damage if not addressed properly.

Once the leak is detected using advanced equipment and the work area is adequately prepared, the repair procedure can begin. In most cases, there are three possible options for addressing a leak in a pressurized water pipe:

  1. Repair clamps: a pipe repair clamp can be a convenient and dependable temporary solution to pressurized pipe leaks. They are chosen depending on the piping material and the nature of the crack or hole, and installed according to the relevant industry standards. Repair clamps are typically used for smaller leaks.
  2. Partial pipe replacement: if the damage is more extensive, the affected section of the pipe may have to be cut out and replaced. In this case, a new pipe section is selected according to the material of the existing pipe and installed via appropriate connectors and couplings.
  3. Full pipe replacement: if the damage is particularly extensive and it’s obvious that the pipe is in poor condition and will most likely fail again, the whole length may need to be replaced.

Need a Hymax repair clamp? Contact Blair Supply Corp. now

How do you seal a water leak under pressure?Blair Supply Corp. is your trusted supplier of top-brand materials and equipment for the water and wastewater distribution industry. Offering everything from Smith-Blair repair clamps to Krausz products, we’re at your beck and call for all your municipal water repair needs.

With three warehouses conveniently located in Monroe County, Jefferson County, and Steuben County in the State of New York, we are able to ship high-quality products across the nation at great competitive rates. Contact Blair Supply Corp. today or browse our website to learn more.

 


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