Hi all…a new Water Research Foundation (WRF) report entitled “Evaluation of Lead Service Line Lining and Coating Technologies – 4351” has been released and is available for free download. The 331 page report evaluated a number of technologies as alternatives to full or partial lead service line (LSL) replacement, and as a means of protecting and repairing copper service lines (CSLs). The intent of the report is to help stakeholders make informed decisions regarding lining and coating of both lead and copper service lines.

http://www.waterrf.org/Pages/Projects.aspx?PID=4351

Bill

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

OBJECTIVES

“The primary objectives of this research project were: (1) to evaluate lead service line (LSL) lining and coating technologies as alternatives to full or partial LSL replacement, and as a means of protecting and repairing copper service lines (CSLs); and (2) to provide information and recommendations to water utilities, engineering consultants, consumers, property owners, state and provincial regulators, and other stakeholders to assist them in making informed decisions regarding lining and coating of both lead and copper service lines. To accomplish these primary objectives, the investigators sought, as a secondary objective, to obtain and evaluate information on many different aspects of linings and coatings, including the following:

  • Effectiveness in preventing lead release from LSLs and reducing tap-water lead levels
  • Advantages and disadvantages for full versus partial LSL replacement
  • Commercial availability, suitability for use in small-diameter pipes, and utilization of materials certified for use in contact with potable water
  • Potential, upon installation and after aging, to leach organic and inorganic chemicals of concern with respect to water quality
  • Long-term effectiveness and durability
  • Ability to control internal water-service-line corrosion, prevent metal release from both service lines and the scales inside them, and repair service-line leaks
  • Costs to both utilities and property owners, especially relative to the cost of LSL replacement
  • Engineering feasibility, commercial availability, certification, and property access issues”