Why do you say VCP is the easiest sewer pipe to maintain?
All other pipe materials commonly used for gravity sanitary sewer limit the options for cleaning processes used. VCP is the only pipe material that permits the use of mechanical cleaning methods and tooling. While other pipe materials allow hydro-jetting, they limit jet pressure to 1,200 – 1,500 psi, while the upper limit for VCP is 5,000 psi. That 300 – 400% difference in pressure used in cleaning, allows for much greater workforce efficiency. These cleaning options make the long-term maintenance of VCP pipelines the most fiscally responsible option.
Are there any cleaning processes that are not recommended for VCP?
NO. VCP is the only pipe recommended by the EPA for use with all types of cleaning tools and techniques.
Can I use a mechanical rodder in VCP?
Yes, mechanical rodders and bucket type machines are popular methods for aggressive cleaning. It is possible to use these methods in VCP because of the material’s hardness and abrasion resistance.
Should I use a lower psi when cleaning older clay pipe lines?
No, NCPI recommends that all VCP be cleaned at high velocity flows and pressures. VCP is non-age dependent and does not physically degrade with age. Regular maintenance, including aggressive cleaning is key to keeping pipelines functioning at design capacity.
Do you recommend tier-rated nozzles to clean clay pipe?
The “Tier” Nozzle rating system relies solely on how efficiently water flows through the nozzle. It does not rate the cleaning efficiency of the nozzle or how it actually cleans a pipe. NCPI recommends a 36˚ to 45˚ jetting angle for effective cleaning of VCP. See the Jetting Angles Chart on page 14 of the VCP Operations & Maintenance Handbook.
How do I remove plaster from our mainline sewer?
In most cases plaster can be removed with high-pressure, high-GPM controlled rotation nozzles or in VCP lines by Hydro-Mechanical cutting tools. Be careful to follow the tool manufacture’s operational guidelines.
How does clay pipe compare to other products for cleaning procedures?
Because VCP is a 9 on Mohs hardness scale, any modern cleaning tools can be used to clean this pipe, including aggressive cutting tools and flails. For flexible, thermoplastic pipe, the ONLY cleaning method approved is hydro-jetting, with pressure limits of just 1,500 psi. To see an annotated chart of the cleaning options for VCP, PVC, HDPE, CIPP and FRP/GRP pipe, see our Allowable Cleaning Methods chart.
How is cleaning VCP different than cleaning other pipe materials?
Other pipe materials have limitations about tools and jetting pressures that can be used. ALL mechanical cleaning methods are acceptable in VCP pipelines and VCP allows for the highest jetting pressures of any pipe material. Download the Allowable Cleaning Methods chart here or see page 10 of the VCP Operations & Maintenance Handbook.
Is there a cleaning method used to remove hard deposits from inside the spur (wye connection)?
Yes, a lateral cleaning system (LCS) provides high-pressure water cleaning power to open clogged service laterals from within the mainline pipe. Utilizing a nozzle and two-position launch angles optimizes entry into the service lateral.
What are the best Nozzles to have on a truck?
For a general “toolbox” of nozzles to fit out a municipal sewer cleaning truck you should start out with the “BIG 3:”
- A “Chisel Point” stoppage nozzle
- A Static Cleaning Nozzle
- A Controlled Rotation nozzle
What do I need to know about cleaning or maintaining VCP sewer lines?
A regular, scheduled cleaning program is key to maintaining design capacity in any pipe. For a comparative review of cleaning methods used in various pipe materials, please see our Cleaning Methods chart.
For a complete review of O & M considerations, see the VCP Operations & Maintenance Handbook.
What hydro cleaning pressure is recommended for clay pipe?
VCP can be cleaned using hydro pressure at more than 3X the pressure recommended for any competitive pipe products at 5000 psi and 125 GPM. Download the Allowable Cleaning Methods chart here or see page 10 of the VCP Operations & Maintenance Handbook.
What is the appropriate method to repair a 15" ESVP sanitary sewer at 20 ft depth?
This depends what the failure is. Point repair options are chemical grouting, open trench dig and replacement, pipe bursting, CIPP etc. When in doubt, contact your pipe manufacturer to discuss the specific challenges and options.
How can you prevent root intrusion in any pipeline?
Aggressive cleaning as part of regularly planned pipeline maintenance is the most effective way to prevent root intrusion in any pipeline. VCP is the only pipe material that allows for chemical, mechanical and hydro-jetting cleaning methods. See the Allowable Cleaning Methods in Various Pipe Materials chart for a full comparison.
For complete technical information, download our Manual or one of our Handbooks.
*Qualifies for PDH Credits
