In November 2022, SAERTEX multiCom LP, in collaboration with Lafontaine Inc. (Lévis, Québec), successfully installed SAERTEX-LINERS H2O S+ XR across the Concorde Bridge (Pont de la Concorde) in the city of Montreal, Québec. The DN 425 x 4.3mm installation spanned more than 1400 meters and comprised two parallel pipes lined in 8 separate installations. This critical infrastructure project will bring fresh, clean drinking water across the Saint Lawrence River to Saint Helen’s Island, which hosts many visitor attractions, including amusement parks, museums, and concert venues. This installation was the first in Canada to rehabilitate drinking water pipes using the state-of-the-art and proven UV Cured-in-Place pressure liner technology from SAERTEX multiCom GmbH.
Planning and preparation for this project began with Lafontaine Inc. in February 2022. They included the requirement of the BNQ (Québec Bureau of Standardization) approval process in conjunction with our yearly NSF 61 drinking water-approved product certification. SAERTEX multiCom and Lafontaine Inc. worked closely together to achieve the BNQ approval and allow the installation of SAERTEX-LINER H2O throughout the Québec province. SAERTEX-LINER H2O now has the designation of being approved for installation in the entire North American continent and many other markets worldwide. The host pipe was carefully measured in length and inner diameter to provide precise dimensions for custom manufacturing by SAERTEX multiCom GmbH. New, single flange spool pieces were welded to the 8 host pipe ends, providing a new pipe for liner termination, a clean non-porous surface for liner end seals, and a flange for easy reconnection.
For the next crucial step, members of the Lafontaine Inc. team flew to Saerbeck, Germany, to attend pressure training at the SAERTEX multiCampus training facility. Once they achieved their SAERTEX-LINER Pressure Certification, they were educated and prepared to begin their first installation. Two SAERTEX multiCom team members joined the Lafontaine Inc. team in Montreal, Québec, for the installation of the liner across the Concorde Bridge. Preparations by Lafontaine Inc. and installation site conditions could not have been more ideal. The double pipeline was fully contained in the structure of the bridge allowing for easy access, minimal traffic hinderance and complete shelter from the elements. The long-term planning of this project and careful considerations from both teams led to a perfect liner fit and flawless installation process. After completion of pressure testing, and sanitizing of the new H2O pipe, the drinking water transmission lines were returned to service, completing the project.
SAERTEX multiCom and the SAERTEX-LINER H2O product is a proven technology that is paving the way for safe, clean, and cost affective rehabilitation of drinking water pipelines worldwide. The entire SAERTEX multiCom team would like to congratulate everyone involved in the success of this great project!
Author: Thijs Teepe, North American Manager of Pressure Products & Training at SAERTEX multiCom LP