The rapid development of cities put huge pressures on the infrastructure which means that traditional solutions fail in a relatively short time. Such was the case in Shanghai where, after only 20 years, an iron water main in a congested inner suburb needed urgent replacement. The solution was PE relining. Requiring only 30 small pits and a mere three months time, the Shanghai Pudong Water Company replaced 2.6 km of water pipes with a durable system, ensuring minimal disruption for residents and preservation of the surrounding greenery.
Improving efficiency of the water supply is a key element to ensure sustainable management of the resource – particularly in areas of high water stress and rapid development. Whether caused by decaying infrastructure or poor pipe standards, water leaks and service disruption are a plague affecting many networks and cities around the world. In mega-cities like Shanghai, the renovation of water networks has to satisfy many sustainability challenges.
With a population of 2.8 million people, Pudong is one of the most vibrant areas of Shanghai in China. After only 20 years of operation, a 2.6 km cast iron pipe network in the area has begun showing signs of age. Leakage has occurred at the joints and across parts of the pipe, resulting in frequent repair and maintenance. The pipeline had to be repaired 36 times in a period of merely four years, causing disruptions to residents in their daily lives. The city water authority, the Shanghai Pudong Water Company, decided to replace this section of the pipeline and started evaluating alternative options.