Pipe Restoration Technologies, LLC, (PRT) makers of the ePIPE®, Lead-Free, Leak-FreeTM and LeadSmart® product lines, recently announced that it has been granted European Patent 2744605.
This invention relates to the use of specialised protective barrier coatings and processes that are applied ‘in-place’ to the interior of drinking water piping systems. Pipes from 12 mm (1⁄2 in) diameter can be protected, ready for return to service in as little as 1 hour. Patent coverage has also been granted on several related US patents.
USEPA and Water Research Foundation sponsored WRF Report 4351 concluded: “Coating technologies can effectively reduce or eliminate release of lead (Pb) from Lead Service Lines (LSLs). Recommended for consideration by both public water systems and property owners.”
The patented ePIPE process provides protection of the LSL, from inside a building to the curb stop or water main, eliminating partial or incomplete line replacement. Lead leaching will be brought into compliance with WHO guidelines for lead (Pb).
The process significantly minimises the time and expense usually associated with current methods used to replace lead service lines.
US and UK authorities claim there are more than 16 million LSLs still in use. In the US alone, President Biden’s American Jobs Plan describes lead service lines affect as many as 22 million people.
Recently, in the US, considerable focus on Government funding and programmes to address lead service lines and lead in schools has once again brought the nation’s attention to the dangers of lead and the need to ‘get the lead out’ of drinking water.