Commercial plumbing assets are often within or underneath your premises, which makes repairs a costly, time-consuming and destructive venture. However, you can minimise the potential negative effects of conventional repairs by leveraging Nuflow’s commercial pipe relining solutions. 

What is pipe relining? 

Cured-in-place-pipe (CIPP) relining is different to traditional commercial plumbing services. It involves installing advanced composite resin into a damaged pipe, essentially creating a pipe within a pipe. The new relined section is fixed better than new, improving the flow rate and lifetime of your commercial pipes. 

Our CIPP relining is particularly effective due to the fact we are the only Australian reliners who develop our own resins in-house. Our solutions are custom designed by a team of chemists and engineers implementing cutting-edge technology to suit the specific requirements of clients across Australasia. 

The benefits of commercial pipe relining for commercial pipe problems 

Commercial pipe relining is more than just a quick-fix solution. It is an innovative, customisable and effective alternative to pipe replacements. Let’s investigate the benefits it could bring to your organisation. 

Less costs to your operations   

Pipe relining removes the need to knock down walls, dig trenches, or destroy any part of your property. Our products and processes have been specifically designed to enable you to maintain your operations throughout the relining process. Your local Nuflow will sit down with you to develop an installation plan that ensures your operational needs are met and tailor our approach accordingly. Because of this process, we find that most of our repairs can be completed within a day. 

This saves you from downtime expenses or the costs it would take to restore your infrastructure, not to mention what you save on labour. Depending on your site characteristics, you can save anywhere between 10% to 75% with Nuflow’s services. 

Suited for a variety of issues   

No matter what commercial plumbing issues your business is facing, Nuflow can help. Pipes come in all different shapes, sizes and materials, and our composite materials and linings can be custom-designed to ensure a solution. We can even perform repairs for junctions, laterals, dead ends, and patch relining. 

Just some of the commercial pipe repairs we provide include:

• Cracks in stormwater drains or sewer pipes of new developments
• Internal fire or water systems in corporate offices suffering from deterioration
• Water mains and similar piping 
• Reactive repairs for commercial plumbing projects 
• Rural and farming assets 
• Commercial and corporate facilities like shopping centres, hotels, theatres, etc. 
• Public utilities and facilities like pools, drainage infrastructure, community centres and more.

Compliance with industry and safety standards 

With our materials produced in-house, we ensure all are manufactured to meet the requirements of the ISO:9001 Quality Management System. Products are also independently tested to ensure they meet international standards, including approval for potable water applications. This means that you can trust in the quality of the materials we use and that they are more than up to the task of repairing your infrastructure. 

We can also promise the safety of you and your people when we are onsite. We pride ourselves on adhering to strict WorkSafe practices by prioritising the safety of our workers and everyone around us. This is built into the approach to every job. 

Less environmental impact  

If your business is seeking to be more environmentally friendly or you have set certain environmental obligations within your organisation, investing in pipe relining from Nuflow is a smart choice. 

Our processes mean no digging or excavation, thereby eliminating environmental damage. Plus, without the need for big machines to carry out excavation, we produce significantly less carbon emissions. Our resins are also environmentally friendly and offer no impact to the surrounding ecosystem. 

Gain visibility over your assets

Along with our commercial relining, we can conduct proactive maintenance that helps you understand the shape of your plumbing. This includes an audit of your systems, with provided CCTV footage, identification of damage or deterioration, and a full report. The report details tailored recommendations for approaching repairs based on the potential consequences of certain pipes failing. 

During and after the relining process, we also produce detailed reports, footage and information on the job for your reference. To streamline this process, we developed a quality assurance application that logs all materials used and assists in registering your warranties. With our warranties being up to 50 years long, we consider it essential that these documents are thoroughly recorded and that you have easy access to them. 

Access the expertise of a fully qualified team    

The Nuflow network is expansive and filled with fully trained, qualified commercial plumbers and installers. All technicians are licensed and insured and are required to conduct continual product and workplace training. This ensures they can maximise the efficiency and effectiveness of our processes and products, as well as deliver solutions that take your specific needs into account. 

We combine our collective expertise with knowledge and insight sharing across the network. This helps us share complex solutions and gives clients across the continent the same high-value service. 

Check out some of our recent commercial plumbing projects 

From rust to robust: Nuflow Manawatu repairs corroded pipes on tanker terminal project

Nuflow Tasman changes the tides for major exporter with stormwater system repair

Nuflow seals up pipeline cracks at Taronga Zoo in time for school holidays

Nuflow’s stormwater relining at Base Ohakea

Sort out your commercial plumbing problems with Nuflow 

No matter your industry or the kind of infrastructure you have, we are equipped with a solution. Our friendly team will operate with transparency and a commitment to getting things resolved fast, and to your budget. Leverage our commercial relining skills today, and get in touch. 

The post Repair your commercial plumbing issues with pipe relining  appeared first on Nuflow.

A contamination incident despite the best laid plans

Sometimes, things happen that you don’t expect. You can do everything right and have the best contingencies in place, only for a series of unforeseen circumstances to lead to a major incident. This is exactly what happened to an industrial food manufacturer in Sydney. 

During operations, a yeast spill occurred inside the facility. While the manufacturer had done the right thing by creating bunded areas to contain the spill, they didn’t realise that the trade waste line buried in the ground had failed. The volume of the spill was so significant that it actually fed into the sewer line, which then also failed and leaked the contamination into the stormwater system. 

Once in the stormwater system, the spill ran along the pipeline until it came across holes, fractures, and failed rubber connection points. These damages meant the yeast drained into the surrounding water system and into a spillway where a member of the public noticed a slick on the surface. After the council was alerted, they tracked the spill to the storm drain outlet connected to the site. As soon as the manufacturer was informed, they took immediate action and reached out to their contracted plumber requesting that things be rectified as quickly as possible. 

Stormwater system damage reveals relining as the only solution 

Once the contracted plumber was able to assess the damage, he saw that the impacts to the trade lines and sewer lines were a relatively straightforward fix. However, when his CCTV drain inspection captured the scope of the impacts to the stormwater system, including collapsed and busted pipe junctions, he realised a reline was the only way to get things repaired. Not only because of tricky access, but because the alternative would mean excavating the sewer line, waste lines, and ammonia plant located above the stormwater system. So, he reached out to his local plumbing supplier seeking a recommendation. 

Nuflow Blacktown and Hills District has great relationships with all suppliers, and are constantly getting referrals from frustrated plumbers not able to find a reliner with the skills, service, and attention to detail required to do the job right. So, when this contracted plumber reached out, he was sent straight to Nuflow.  

Nuflow’s fast response and adaptability to the rescue  

Once the team was brought in, they were given CCTV footage and an instruction that things were extremely urgent. Owner Dane reviewed a whopping 4 hours of footage that same night and emailed his recommendations to the plumber. Within a week of the order, Nuflow Blacktown was on site ready to repair the stormwater system using top relining tech, Blueline. 

This particular job posed a lot of challenges, from accessibility to safety to the weather. The team only had about 300-400m of working room to insert the relining bladders which would prove difficult for the damaged pipe junctions. These are connections from a sideline that lead to an appliance or different area of the building, feeding them into a common drain line. Because of their position in the pipes, good accessibility is usually a requirement to effectively complete the reline. Despite their space limitations, the team was able to use their expertise to effectively reline and repair the pipeline junctions. This was even more impressive in the face of their other major hurdle – the rain. 

While the job was being done, Sydney was dealing with nonstop rain. There was no option to reschedule due to the urgency of the job, so the Nuflow Blacktown and Hills District team had to adapt. To counteract their battle with the weather, they used resins that would cure underwater and wouldn’t wash away while they were installing the liners. Plus, because of the size of the site, the stormwater drain needed to be in operation during the reline. To allow for that, the team used flow-through bladders that allowed the water to run through a hose within the liner. 

The amount of rainfall was also a major safety concern since the team would be working in the stormwater pits, so they had to mitigate that risk. Nuflow Blacktown and Hills District is ISO accredited across three tiers, meaning they are dedicated to safety and quality. Throughout the duration of the job, they made sure they upheld working standards that aligned with these accreditations, ensuring the safety of the team and great outcomes for the client. 

Fast, effective service the client could trust

By the time the job was done, twenty-two liners were installed, consisting of two 225mm x 150mm junctions, fourteen 225mm sectional patches, five 150mm sectional patches, and one 300mm sectional patch. This only took three weeks, and in under a month the stormwater system was structurally repaired and running efficiently. 

The client was thrilled with the speed of the job, and the fact that their operations could continue without interruption. They could simply put their faith in Nuflow, and know that everything would be done to an exceptional standard. 

Nuflow’s here to help

No matter how complex or complicated your project, your local Nuflow has the capability to help. Whether you’re in need of commercial, residential, or industrial pipe repair, our market-leading, innovative relining solutions can provide the results you need. Learn more on our website, or get in touch today. 

The post Rising to the occasion: stormwater system relining saves the dough after yeast spill appeared first on Nuflow.

Without the right preparation and attention, these issues could become something much bigger and impact your summer enjoyment. That’s why we wanted to offer our knowledge and help you figure out how to both prevent and remedy the plumbing difficulties you’re most likely to encounter. Here are 6 of the most significant plumbing problems and their relevant solutions. 

1. Blocked gutters  

The hot summer weather means dead and dry leaves can make their way into your gutters. Not only is this an eyesore, when debris accumulates it can stop your gutters from functioning the way they need to. During a summer storm, overflow may spill into your yard and cause damage or flooding to your property. Debris can make its way into your downpipes and accumulate in your storm drain, causing serious blockages during heavy rainfall.

Solution  

Well before the full swing of summer, you should ensure your gutters are as clear as possible. From there, you need to conduct ongoing maintenance throughout the season to prevent things building up over time. If you’re unable to do this safely, a plumber or drain specialist can handle this for you. While they’re there, it’s a good idea to get your drains and downpipes inspected for any leaks or blockages to ensure everything is working correctly. 

2. Clogged toilets 

School holidays start over the summer, which means your kids are home a lot more often. It’s also likely you’ll have people over more consistently. All of this means a lot more work for your poor toilet.

With more toilet paper heading down your pipes, the chances of things getting clogged are heightened. No one wants to deal with a backed-up toilet, so here are a few things you can do. 

Solution  

If you have younger kids, make sure they know the proper bathroom etiquette. The last thing you need is food and toys blocking your sewer pipes. Likewise, ensuring that toilet paper is the only thing going down there can help prevent big build-ups. Even ‘flushable’ wipes may not disintegrate as promised and cause a blockage. 

In the event that something does cause a clog, try out your luck with a plunger. If that doesn’t work, don’t leave it and hope that it sorts itself out – this can lead to a much bigger problem. In this situation, you should definitely call in a professional. 

3. Slow draining showers 

Outdoor adventures are a summer time staple. Maybe you’re going to a beach, a local waterway, or even a park. A lot of fun memories are made through these experiences, and so are build-ups in your shower. With people outdoors a lot more, there is more to clean off in the shower. Extra dirt, debris, and sand can accumulate in your shower drain and cause it to empty a lot slower. 

Solution  

Give your drains a clean at the start of summer so anything you wash down doesn’t add to what’s already there. You can also call a professional to look at the state of your shower drain and clear anything out before it becomes a bigger problem. 

Then throughout the season, it’s a good idea to rinse off as much as you can before getting into the shower. This reduces the debris being washed down your drain and can help prevent things from getting blocked.  

4. Dripping outdoor taps 

Your outdoor taps get used a lot during the heat, whether it’s for washing the car, watering your garden, or just summer fun shenanigans. This extra use can mean that your faucet’s washer undergoes a bit of wear and tear and can result in it leaking. Otherwise, the pipeline leading to your tap may have moved around or even frozen during winter, resulting in cracks along it somewhere. This makes a leak a little harder to detect, but you’ll soon learn from your water bill. 

Solution  

If your tap is leaking, ensure that the rubber washer is in good condition and that the faucet is sealed to the wall. If that doesn’t fix it, calling in a plumber to fix any potential pipeline issues can save you utility expenses in the long run and be better for the environment. 

5. Tree root intrusion

We all need a little extra water in summer, and so do the trees around your home and pipes. In warmer weather, tree roots will seek out groundwater further down in the soil. Unfortunately, they usually end up finding your pipes instead, where they make their way inside through small fissures and cracks. This causes blockages throughout your drainage systems, waterlines, and sewers. 

Solution  

There often isn’t much you can do in the way of initial prevention of tree root intrusion, aside from being ready to call in someone to help at the first sign of trouble. Professionals can conduct a CCTV inspection to confirm the source and location, and then get things removed for you. 

If you find this becomes an ongoing issue, there are a few things you can do. One is to remove the offending tree, which isn’t ideal, and the other is to reline your pipes with advanced materials. With Nuflow’s CIPP relining technology, our tough composite resins are resistant to tree root intrusion and can stop them from invading your pipes. 

Talk to Nuflow for help with your summer plumbing 

The team at Nuflow are prepared to help with every issue on this list. Our expertise and knowledge can help ensure that your plumbing systems keep flowing smoothly over the warmer months. That way you can stay focused on enjoying time with your loved ones. Reach out to us today and we’ll conduct checks on your drains and other systems to get you summer-ready.  

The post Summer plumbing tips from Nuflow appeared first on Nuflow.

Take your pipes and drains. These are something you use daily, whether it’s to wash your hands, clean your dishes, or take a shower after a long day. If you can take steps to be more sustainable and environmentally conscious in this space, it can go a long way in reducing your footprint. 

Why is it important to lessen environmental impact? 

We only get one earth, so it’s important to do our bit to preserve our natural resources and ecosystems as much as possible. For example, taking steps to save water can reduce the strain on local water sources as well as the energy used to treat and transport it. This can also help minimise gas emissions that impact our atmosphere. 

If everyone is able to make small changes, it can add up to a big difference that helps maintain balance and reduce the effects of climate change. It can even benefit our health by reducing pollution and any toxic chemicals we might be exposed to. 

Practising more sustainable plumbing is one great way you can help reduce environmental impact. Here’s how. 

5 ways you can be more environmentally conscious with your pipes and drains 

1. Use a drain strainer 

A lot of yucky stuff can make its way into your pipes when it’s washed down your drain. Hair, chunks of food, oil, grease, garbage and more can start to culminate and cause blockages in your pipeline. If these blockages add up, they can put pressure on your pipes and eventually result in them bursting. This means a lot of water is wasted and could even impact ecosystems by flooding certain areas, or release untreated sewage into waterways. Not to mention the resources that are used up to get this repaired. 

Plus, the more debris that makes its way into your systems the higher the chance it has of polluting water or being eaten by an unsuspecting animal. By using a drain strainer, you can help to minimise the chance of this happening. 

2. Keep your pipes clean and clear  

Sometimes blockages happen, no matter how many drain strainers you use. We’ve already discussed how bad blockages can be when left to build up, so when they do occur you should get things cleaned and cleared as soon as you can. Try and use an environmentally-friendly drain cleaner since chemical options can be harmful to the environment and your pipes. Some natural alternatives like baking soda, lemon juice and vinegar are great options. 

If this doesn’t work, never fear. Call in a professional to help. At Nuflow, we use a high-pressure cleaning system to easily blast blockages away. You can find out more about clearing your blocked drains here.

3. Get your pipes inspected regularly  

Pipe problems aren’t always visible. You might not easily notice things like blockages further down the pipeline, leaking pipes, or broken assets but they can still have a significant environmental impact. Large amounts of water can be wasted, and if waste from systems like sewers leaches into the surrounding soil it can become a biohazard that affects the ecosystem. 

With regular pipe inspections, you can prevent minor issues from snowballing into much larger problems, and identify broken and leaking plumbing before things escalate. Nuflow uses top-of-the-line CCTV drain inspection technology that identifies the exact nature and location of a problem, enabling us to easily find a solution. 

4. Don’t pay the price of a replacement  

If your pipes are damaged, it won’t just be your wallet that is impacted by a full replacement. The impact of construction on the environment is significant, and replacing pipes involves extensive excavation that disrupts the surrounding ecosystem and displaces flora and fauna. Plus, it requires the use of heavy machinery with large CO₂ emissions that make their way into the atmosphere. All around, it’s not a great option for the environment. 

Pipe relining is a fantastic, no-dig alternative. Not only does it eliminate the need for construction, it reduces the amount of waste. At Nuflow, our fit-for-purpose solutions are made to the exact specifications of each job. That means we only engineer the resin we need to reline the diameter of the pipe and nothing more. Plus, there’s no pipe to dispose of when we’re done, so there’s less rubbish making its way into landfills. Discover more about the environmental benefits of pipe relining. 

5. Dispose of hazardous materials appropriately

You shouldn’t treat your drain as a garbage disposal. Pouring things like batteries, paint, chemicals and medications down your sink is a big no-no and can be extremely harmful to the environment. If they make their way into waterways, they can contaminate water supplies and harm aquatic life. You need to dispose of them safely, like at a designated recycling centre. That way, you can reduce your environmental impact and practise greater sustainability. 

Practise sustainable plumbing with Nuflow 

We can help you do everything you need to be more environmentally conscious with your pipes and drains. From inspections, to drain cleaning, to pipe relining, our systems and processes offer great options for reducing environmental impact and contributing to a better, greener world. Talk to us today. 

The post How to reduce the environmental impact of your pipes and drains appeared first on Nuflow.

By conducting effective yearly maintenance on your plumbing systems, you can help ensure that everything works the way it should and set yourself up for an easy-flowing year. Let’s investigate why this is important. 

The importance of regular pipe and plumbing maintenance 

More efficient functioning  

When blockages, leaks or other damages are impacting your pipes, it means your plumbing system isn’t able to function effectively. This results in clogged toilets, overfilling drains, poor water pressure and other issues that you don’t want to be dealing with. One of the best ways you can boost the performance of your systems is by running through an effective pipe maintenance checklist each year. 

Reduce the risk of costly problems 

It doesn’t take much for minor plumbing problems to snowball into much bigger issues. For example, a small leak that goes undetected could turn into a burst pipeline that causes serious damages that are costly to remedy. If this issue is caught in its beginning stages thanks to your maintenance processes, you can prevent this from happening. 

Lengthen the lifespan of your assets 

When you look after your pipes, it can reduce the amount you need to spend on repairs and keep your assets viable for longer. Take a blocked drain – when this is cleared out it reduces the pressure on your pipes and keeps things running smoothly. 

Be prepared for extreme weather  

Extreme weather is unpredictable, so you want your pipes to be ready for anything. A lot of homes and businesses were impacted by major rainfall and flooding throughout 2022, so stormwater systems have a major part to play in avoiding or minimising damages. Ensuring important systems like this are in top condition can help put you in the best position and get your assets prepared for whatever comes their way.

Your plumbing maintenance checklist  

Now that you know why you should conduct regular pipe maintenance, let’s discuss what you should do. These are our top 5 tips for ensuring your systems are ready for the year ahead. 

1. Check for damage   

We’ve established that regular pipe maintenance can help stop minor issues from becoming something more serious, so inspecting them for visible damage should be high on your list. Failure to do so could impact your water quality and cause contaminants to enter your water supply. Small cracks can also act as an entry point for tree roots to invade and clog your systems. 

Make sure you check for cracks, holes and any other problems. You can use a flashlight to look inside and gain some visibility. It’s also a good idea to call in a professional to do this for you. Nuflow uses industry-leading CCTV technology in our inspections, which allows us to clearly identify the cause and location of any problems. 

2. Test for leaks   

Leaking pipes are a common problem. They can cause water waste, mould growth, low water pressure and, in extreme cases, structural damage to your home or business. An obvious sign is water stains on walls, floors or ceilings, along with dripping taps. You can also use leak detection kits or turn off your water supply and check your meter. From there, you can call in a professional to help remedy the problem.  

3. Get things cleaned and cleared   

Clogs and blocked drains are often caused by the build-up of everyday debris like dirt, hair, soap scum, or grease and oil. It’s unavoidable that these items will make their way into your pipes, but you can stop them from majorly impacting your systems. 

Start the year with regular cleaning that clears out this debris and minimises the build-up within your pipes. As things make their way into your systems, there’s less for them to add to and thus less chance that your pipes will become clogged. At Nuflow, we make use of a high pressure cleaner that blasts away any blockages and leaves your pipes clear. 

4. Inspect your water pressure   

Problems with water pressure can be caused by a variety of issues, including obstructions, leaks, corroded pipes or even damage to your water main. When left unchecked, unbalanced water pressure can cause burst pipes and very high water bills. That makes it important to keep an eye on your water pressure. 

You can do this by inspecting your taps and showerheads, or even using a pressure gauge on your pipe valves. If you do notice an issue, you should contact a professional to inspect your pipes and remedy the source of the problem. 

5. Inspect for corrosion   

Aging and corroded pipes can be your worst enemy. Not only do they impact how well your systems function, they have a high risk of bursting. Signs of a corroded pipe might be blue or green deposits, rust, or just general wear and tear. If you see any indication of this, you should contact a professional to get things fixed. 

Rather than paying for the expense of a full replacement, you can contact Nuflow and enquire about pipe relining. This no-dig solution creates a new, stronger pipe within your aging assets and can even improve your flow rates. We have a range of products suited to different assets, and we’ll use our expertise to find the best fit for you. 

Get on top of your plumbing maintenance with Nuflow   

We’re well-equipped to help you make sure your systems are set for 2023. Our friendly team can drop by anytime and work with you as we tick off your pipe maintenance checklist. Reach out to your local Nuflow today to book your yearly maintenance check. 

The post Get your pipes ready for the year with a plumbing maintenance checklist  appeared first on Nuflow.

Nuflow Manawatu has recently launched a partnership with Semtex, a local plumbing company that specialises in commercial and civil project contracting. Semtex boasts a collective 200 years of combined industry experience in plumbing, gas, drainage and civil pipelaying. As well as serving the Manawatu region, it operates New Zealand-wide on a number of key specialist contracts.

According to Managing Director, Matthew Nieper, the partnership will bring a new area of proactive, new-age plumbing and relining solutions that are crucial to Manawatu’s pipe infrastructure and its residents.

“We’re really excited to partner with Semtex. Nuflow will be able to lend its expertise to a whole new range of commercial and civil projects, and Semtex will have access to our market-leading relining solutions and pipe inspection technology.

“Ultimately, this is guaranteed to benefit local government, businesses and residents, as we’ll be able to provide modern solutions to monitor, assess and repair even more damaged or aging pipes in the area.

“It’s especially exciting as our solutions are cutting edge, and aren’t yet mainstream or highly available to the Manawatu area. We’ll be able to help shape the region with pipes that are more durable, resilient and efficient than ever before,” Matthew said.

Nuflow is best known for its specialist relining services that repair and rehabilitate pipes by creating a ‘pipe within a pipe’. This is created with an epoxy liner that bonds to the host pipe’s interior wall, sealing and protecting the system from further deterioration while dramatically extending the life of the piping system. Nuflow boasts a range of products that have been developed in-house by the company’s own research and development team, all with special applications to cover all types of problems. ‘Greenline’, for example, is AS/NZ 4020: 2005 approved and deemed safe for drinking water, while ‘Ultraline’ contains a specialised UV resin which cures with an LED Ultra Violet light.

Nuflow’s unique approach is all about providing non-invasive, low impact plumbing solutions that make it easier to be proactive rather than reactive. One of their key services is CCTV inspection, which allows for a detailed, high-definition assessment of a pipe’s condition without needing to dig trenches and create unnecessary environmental or societal impact.

“Our team uses the latest IBAK Tractor Cameras and Pushreels, operated by ProjectMax CCTV trained operators, Matthew said.

“Paired with WinCan VX and WinCan Webflex Cloud Software, we’re able to generate professional reports and grade pipelines to NZPIM 4th Edition along with providing Laser Deformation and Inclination Reports from 50mm to 3000mm.”

Matthew said this CCTV and assessment technology, while not widely available, is becoming increasingly valuable to major commercial and civil projects. The approach allows for quick, accurate and low impact evaluation of the pipes before major project assets, like repair equipment, need to be on site. Ultimately, this helps government and commercial stakeholders to benefit from a significantly more efficient and cost-effective solution.

“Whether it be stormwater, drinking water or sewage, pipe infrastructure plays a crucial part in a modern, developed society. The trouble is that costs, logistics and societal impacts are major factors in deciding how and when to maintain critical pipe infrastructure.

“A potential issue may be left until it becomes an immediate problem that justifies the cost, labour and time to excavate and make the necessary repairs. By then, it might be too late,” Matthew said.

This is particularly important for the aging pipe infrastructure in the Manawatu region, which has the potential to impact water quality and environmental health.

Nuflow’s CCTV solutions are able to view pipes with minimal impact, providing a clear view of issues underground so that reliable and accurate condition reports can be done efficiently and more frequently. This is expected to help increase the frequency of assessments every year, allowing local councils to keep a closer eye on the conditions of pipes that serve their communities.

“At Nuflow Manawatu, we’re eager to deploy this technology more frequently so we can be more proactive with how we maintain our critical pipes. Everyone should have the right to clean drinking water and a reliable sewerage system, and our goal is to ensure this is a pillar for the region.”

The post Nuflow Manawatu set to enhance NZ pipes with new-age solutions that increase quality, not cost or impact appeared first on Nuflow.

It’s what makes being part of the Nuflow team such a rewarding franchise opportunity – the chance to be a part of a movement that sets a new standard and changes the way our plumbing sector operates.

What makes Nuflow a unique franchise opportunity

Challenging the old ways 

Traditional pipe replacement and servicing can be costly and time consuming. This is largely due to conventional practices that are based on replacing old or damaged pipes, which requires excavation, new materials and labour. 

Conventional practices can also be disruptive and impactful to property, landscaping, the environment and day-to-day activity. Depending on the location of the issue, excavation and pipe replacement can also be incredibly invasive and cause future issues for surrounding structures if not done correctly. 

New technology and continuous R&D 

Nuflow takes plumbers away from excavation and replacement. With our cured-in-place-pipe (CIPP), or ‘pipe within a pipe’ approach to relining we’re able to minimise disruption to properties, reduce costs and extend the lifespan of existing pipes. This makes CIPP an ideal option for addressing various plumbing issues like leaks, cracks, corrosion, and structural damage in sewer, water and even gas pipelines.

What makes our CIPP delivery particularly unique is that we are the only Australian reliners who develop our own resins and materials. Our products, from Blueline to our Sumoline manhole rehabilitation solutions, are produced through a dedicated team of Nuflow chemists and engineers, who create the resins in-house to be readily available to our franchise partners. No one else is doing this, which gives Nuflow the edge over our competitors. 

What’s more, we invest heavily in research and development. Our teams are constantly investigating cutting-edge technology to address new challenges and cater to specific requirements across Australasia.

Thinking about joining the Nuflow family? Here are the benefits.

There are several reasons why Nuflow is one of the best franchise opportunities for plumbers and aspiring business owners who truly want to make a difference in their community.

Be associated with market leading reputation 

Nuflow is a name synonymous with reliability and excellence. By joining our franchise network, you’ll instantly leverage our established reputation and benefit from the trust that customers place in our brand. This credibility will open doors to new opportunities, referrals, and steady business growth.

Leverage local resources  

Franchise partners have convenient access to products, resources and support because of its commitment to localised service, with a headquarters in Queensland and franchisees throughout the Asia Pacific region. With Nuflow, there are no delays or challenges from dealing with an unseen international provider. Product development is in-house and service delivery is tailored to the community.  As a Nuflow franchisee, your local access to products and expertise will allow you to elevate your business and deliver unparalleled service to your customers.

Fair costs, fairer profits 

Franchisees join Nuflow for a reasonable upfront purchase price and modest monthly fees, which can be quickly recouped through strong profit opportunity. Without the need to invest in excavation tools or spend copious amounts of money on replacement materials, using relining technology developed and provided in-house can significantly expand your profit margins.

Nuflow is a family, we support each other 

Nuflow is more than just a company. It’s a family of passionate and forward-thinking professionals. As a franchisee, you’ll join a thriving network of like-minded individuals who share the same commitment to innovation and customer service. 

As a Nuflow franchisee, you work independently but you’re never alone. We invest heavily in training, networking and annual conference to create opportunities to collaborate, share insights, and learn from the best in the business. Franchisees are equipped with everything they need to succeed, from technical and operational support like Head Office guidance and marketing, to physical resources like highly trained relining staff, specialised tools and equipment hire if required.

Be a part of a plumbing renaissance  

We are fortunate to be at the forefront of a growing trend in modern plumbing solutions. CIPP relining is still in its early stages and is not widely adopted in the industry, despite the clear benefits for customers and our plumbing infrastructure. This means there is low competition and abundant opportunities for immediate growth. 

Franchisees are also expected to benefit from long term year-on-year growth opportunities thanks to pipes being installed under roadways, buildings and other infrastructure. As this continues to occur, there will be ongoing demand for Nuflow’s expertise, as well as potential new markets that will appear as we continue to develop new products that address different plumbing challenges.

Take advantage of this exciting franchise opportunity today

Now is the perfect time to embark on a journey of transformation with Nuflow. As a franchisee, you’ll be part of a dynamic and innovative industry, where every day presents new challenges and opportunities for growth. You have the chance to redefine plumbing services in your area, build a reputable brand, and secure a prosperous future for your business. Contact us today to get more information about a Nuflow franchisee opportunity.

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Old infrastructure puts a stop to renovations 

Part of the project included refurbishing a building for commercial tenants. This engineering team was required to replace damaged sheet piling that reinforced the building against the nearby ocean. However, installing new sheet piling would inevitably cause vibrations that risked damaging a 36m 1100 x 900mm brick stormwater culvert drain, which ran underneath the building. 

Constructed from brick, the asset was suspected to date back to the late 1800s when the port was first established. A camera inspection revealed that the culvert drain was severely damaged, with huge cracks along its surface and even whole bricks missing. The engineering team suspected that it would not be able to withstand the level of intervention needed to install sheet piling without collapsing and causing irreversible damage to the heritage-listed building above. 

So, they had to pause their renovation plans and find someone to help them with the culvert drain repair. However, they soon realised that the shape of the asset would make this difficult. 

Culvert drain’s unique shape calls for a unique solution

Most drainage culvert drains are round, so most reliners are only equipped for this standard shape. However, the culvert drain running beneath the soon-to-be-renovated building were arched. This required a solution beyond the typical process, making it difficult to find someone able to deliver a suitable outcome. 

Luckily, the engineering team were referred to Nuflow WA. When Nuflow WA’s head reliner Steve saw the camera inspection footage, he knew they had the means and expertise to address the problem. Soon, they were on site conducting inspections and identifying the most effective solution and process. 

It was quickly determined that Sumoline would be the best product thanks to its strength and ability to structurally repair damaged infrastructure. Even if the pipe completely collapsed, the Sumoline resin would remain and keep things structurally sound. With the drain’s level of deterioration, this was a real possibility the team needed to account for. An added bonus was the solution’s ability to cure underwater, which would be especially useful since the team would be working with the tide. Nuflow WA also needed to develop a custom liner to cater for the unique size and shape of the arch culvert drain. Once this was all quoted, constructed and approved, Nuflow WA was able to get started.

A chilly preparation 

After their own camera inspection, the Nuflow WA team decided the best way to tackle the culvert drain was 6m at a time. However, before the relining process could begin, the technicians needed to ‘wet out the liner.’ This involves putting the resin into the liner before it can be pulled into the drain and cured.

When this is done in the sun it exposes the resin to UV, speeding up the curing process. This means the team would have to work very quickly, making the process difficult due to the sheer size of liner. Their solution was to change the climate using a 40-foot refrigerated container. Inserting the liner in this chilled environment meant the team had up to 2.5 hours to finish the job, as opposed to a one-hour time frame in the sun. 

fridge int

An ocean-assisted installation 

Once the liner was ready, it was time to get it into the culvert drain. Since it was around 300kg, this was a demanding process that required a lot of manpower. Installing this meant manoeuvring the liner from the container to the manhole access point, suspending it down the manhole and then positioning it into the culvert drain itself. The small access point and weight of the liner made manoeuvring difficult, but thanks to the team’s expertise they were up to the task.

After nine days of hard work, the final stages of the reline were complete. In order to prevent water from making its way between the Nuflow reline and the old culvert drain, installers finished off the end with Nuflow’s smooth trowel. The final result was a fully restored and refurbished brick culvert drain asset. 

Repaired culvert drain get renovation back in action 

Thanks to Nuflow’s alternative no-dig solutions, the project engineers avoided the extremely expensive task of decommissioning the culvert drain by filling it with concrete and diverting stormwater elsewhere. They were also glad to be back on schedule without needing to worry about compromising the infrastructure below. Likewise, the port and the water authority were pleased to have everything back in working order. 

[H2] Let us solve your complex culvert drain problems  

Nuflow has the skills and know-how to assist with any manner of pipe issues. Our skills and experience across the industry of relining mean that we’re able to adapt these innovative solutions to suit your unique scenario. Save yourself time and expenses, and reach out to us today.

The post Nuflow protects Fremantle’s history by repairing arch culvert pipes appeared first on Nuflow.

What is uncommon, however, is the work Nuflow Bendigo was required to do at the local private hospital. When a mystery leak appeared on the pavement outside, they were called in to put their underground pipe leak detection skills to the test. However, the team soon realised that this was only a small part of a much bigger mystery, and they were the only ones who could solve it. 

Footpath leak reveals stormwater issues 

The hospital in question is about 50 years old. Nuflow Bendigo is regularly onsite to do hospital plumbing maintenance and help make sure their assets are as close as possible to current plumbing standards. While on a regularly scheduled maintenance check-up, the team was approached by the hospital about a mysterious, reoccurring puddle of water coming from the ground. The team understand exactly how to find a leaking pipe underground, so they agreed to take a look. It didn’t take long for them to identify that the problem was related to the stormwater system beneath the pavement. 

CCTV camera inspections uncovered that the system was suffering from tree root intrusion, which was causing water to leak through the cracks to the footpath. Nuflow Bendigo was able to quickly clear away the pesky roots with pressure jet cleaning, and reline the underground pipe leak. 

It seemed like things were resolved, but there was just one problem – there had been no rain to flow into the drain, so where had the water come from? The team are not about quick fixes, so knew they needed to investigate further. 

Nuflow Bendigo is on the case  

Lead by head reliner and business owner Phil, Nuflow Bendigo began their investigation of various pipelines throughout the hospital to discover the culprit. This proved to be more difficult than usual since there were no plans for the pipe layouts, meaning they were going in blind. Things got even more challenging due to the fact that the building facades were constructed around the piping, making visibility very difficult. 

Still, this didn’t stop them from finding answers. After spending days figuring out where the different pipelines were and how to access them, they were able to use CCTV technology to inspect the interiors. This is how they discovered some corroded copper pipes beneath the maternity ward. 

These are actually pipe stacks, meaning they go up through multiple floors – three floors and into a cellar to be exact. Their purpose was to feed used reverse osmosis water from operating theatres into the sewer system. 

Reverse osmosis is a process for filtering town water, removing all contaminants and impurities to leave behind clean, pure water. The hospital’s damaged copper stack was feeding it away from the scrubs area where it was used to disinfect and sterilise equipment, but because this type of water is corrosive to copper it had started to eat away the pipe.  

The team realised that, at some point, the hospital maintenance staff must have noticed the leak in this line and redirected the reverse osmosis water away from the sewer and into the stormwater system. This solved the case of where the mystery water had come from, but now they needed a long-term fix for this short-term solution. 

A search for the right solution 

Pipe stacks always pose a challenge. There are all sorts of junctions leading into the stack that you can’t reline over without drilling out the junction’s entry point. Plus, Phil wanted to reline 1m down the junction lines to offer maximum protection. Without proper access, this is an extremely time-consuming process – and that was time the team didn’t have. 

In order to do the repairs, the pipelines would need to be completely dry so the resin was able to cure. That meant that the operating rooms could not be in use while this was happening since they wouldn’t be able to sterilise anything. Luckily, they would be shutting down over Christmas for a few days, so Nuflow Bendigo had a small window of opportunity to get the job done. 

Given the circumstances surrounding the job, Phil knew he needed to get creative with his solution. Traditional relining requires two access points, and they would only have one for each pipe. So, he began researching alternative options. 

In the past on another project, he had used a brush coating system. This involved applying multiple layers of resin in a brushing process and curing it with pressurised air. It offers easy manoeuvring, allowing the technician to go around bends and also different-sized pipes. This made it perfect for the hospital project. 

Phil conducted further research into this solution to ensure he was across all the right technicalities, which included getting in touch with technicians in Europe. Once he was confident, it was time to get started. 

Brush coating serves as the right solution 

Over the course of two days, the team was on site applying the brush coating system. The brush was attached to a milling cable, causing it to spin around inside the pipe. As it’s pulled through, it brushes the pipe with the resin, coating it from top to bottom. 

As the resin dried, it actually changed the piping integrity of the copper stack. It is now acid resistant and able to handle temperatures of over 100 degrees. This means that it will be protected from further corrosion caused by the reverse osmosis water moving forward.

Phil was very pleased with the result of the brush coating system, and what it means for pipe relining moving forward. “This is a solution that Nuflow is investing in and wants to advance in Australia.” 

Another case solved 

Nuflow Bendigo did in two days what would have taken over two months with a pipe replacement. Without relining, the operating rooms would face destruction and the hospital would need to shut things down for a long period of time. The hospital maintenance team was very happy that this didn’t need to happen, and that things could keep running smoothly. 

Call Nuflow for help 

If you are dealing with challenging pipe problems, like issues in the plumbing of your multistorey building, Nuflow has the capabilities to help. Time and time again, we go above and beyond for our clients to find solutions that suit their timelines, operations, and accessibility requirements. As our research and development teams advance the brush coating systems, we’ll be able to add this to our repertoire of high-quality, innovative solutions and offer even more extensive resolutions to your pipe problems. Talk to us today to learn more.

The post Nuflow Bendigo and the case of the water leak detection appeared first on Nuflow.

So, when a cracked stormwater system was discovered in a newly completed housing development in the North Harbour region, the managing construction company knew they needed to rectify the problem quickly. However, with the asset surrounded by newly built infrastructure for the development, they needed a solution that wouldn’t demand its destruction.  Fortunately, this is Nuflow’s speciality. 

Stormwater cracks risk infrastructure upgrades 

Piritahi is a construction company in Auckland that develops land and old subdivisions on behalf of government agency, Kāinga Ora, to provide rental housing for New Zealanders in need. 

Recently, Piritahi completed an infrastructure upgrade in the North Harbour region. Before they were able to open the new subdivision, they were required to confirm safety and building compliance for various assets across the project. This included conducting a CCTV inspection and flow report on the reinforced concrete stormwater system which had been installed as part of the upgrade. During the inspection, Piritahi uncovered a crack along a 5m section of the pipe that had occurred after its installation. 

The crack meant that the pipe was no longer structurally sound, and was at risk of collapsing if left unaddressed. It also meant that Piritahi couldn’t transfer ownership of to the local water authority until it was fixed. This would prove difficult as the stormwater pipe was located beneath a brand new 12 inch thick concrete walkway with an attached culvert. A lot of work had gone into this walkway, and a replacement would mean destroying everything followed by extensive remedial work, essentially starting all over again. Plus, It was also next to a public access park that would inevitably be impacted by the excavation required to replace the pipe. 

Initial remediation plans involving the replacement were predicted to cost over $250,000 and set the project timeline back months. Piritahi wanted to avoid this at all costs, so they looked into possible reline solutions. Having worked with Nuflow North Harbour in the past, they realised they were the best option to reach out to. 

Nuflow’s custom solution 

When head reliner at Nuflow North Harbour, David, got the request for a structural reline from Piritahi, he knew his team was up to the task. He started by organising a site visit where they inspected access points, reviewed site plans and determined the pipe specifications. 

Once he had all the information he needed, David reached out to Head Office and leveraged the expertise of Nuflow’s engineers and technicians to find the best possible solution. They came back with the recommendation for a 20mm, fit-for-purpose Sumoline liner. This is Nuflow’s strongest CIPP relining system and has been specifically designed to structurally repair built infrastructure where load-bearing capacity is critical. They decided that they would reline the pipe in two sections to account for the large size. 

As the largest pipe the Nuflow North Harbour team had dealt with, they realised they would need to custom make the liner in order to make it as effective as possible. Once they had confirmed the details, they submitted the price, plans and engineering specs for approval, and started preparing for the stormwater pipe repair. 

Unprecedented pipe size calls for problem solving 

Once the team got to the location, their first task was to establish the site. This meant determining public barriers and the area they needed for equipment and vehicles. They also needed to construct a shade tent to prep the materials so the resin wouldn’t react to the sun and begin to harden before it was in place. Nuflow is committed to safety and quality, so doing this made sure that the job would be done correctly with as little risk as possible. 

The first stage required wetting out the liner with the Sumoline resin. They then had to ‘invert the plastic’, which involves pushing a plastic skin of polypropylene the same size as the pipe into the liner to prevent the resin from sticking to the bladder as it inflates and cures. 

Usually, this is a simple process, with two or three technicians sliding it into the place with the help of an air compressor. However, because the custom liners were 150kg and filled with 300kg of resin, the plastic was meeting resistance and kept pushing out. With these weights more than double the size of the usual liners, the team realised they needed to adapt their process and come up with a better solution.  

They decided to strap the compressed air box to the liner, and then strap the liner to the truck. That way, when the compressed air was turned on, the plastic had nowhere to go except inside the liner. This proved successful, and the team could get started on the rest of the relining process. 

After clearing the pipe of debris, they got the liner in position. With weight continuing to be a challenge, the team used a capstan winch to lower it into the manhole access point, as well as a reversing vehicle that would carry the weight on the other end as it lowered. Not only did this solve the problem of its size and mass, it made it easy to reposition the placement of the liner if they needed to. 

Once in place, the bladder was inflated and left to cure for 36hours before the liner was pulled out and the process was repeated. Through what they learnt on day one, they were able to cut four hours off the preparation process and get it installed into the pipe much faster. Once again it was left to cure and pulled out after another 36 hours. The whole relining process only took four days, and left behind a structurally repaired asset that was stronger than ever. 

A fast, effective and safe pipe relining solution  

The Nuflow North Harbour team finished in four days what would have taken up to six weeks with a full replacement. All of this was done without having to touch the newly installed infrastructure, saving wasted recourses, unnecessary costs and impacts to the environment. Even the nearby public park could stay open as normal.  

Piritahi was very impressed with their work, and even commented on how well the team worked together. They were also grateful that all safety procedures and methodologies were adhered to, given the potential risks from the heavy materials.

After Nuflow North Harbour’s expert work, the asset was suitable for transfer to the council and Kāinga Ora were able to start leasing out homes to those who need it. 

Ask Nuflow about your pipe relining solutions

If you’re tossing up the merit of pipe relining vs replacement, this project should prove the benefits of the former. Don’t suffer from damaged infrastructure or unnecessary excavation. You can structurally repair your pipes in no time when you reach out to Nuflow for help. Contact us today.

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