IT3 System Features
Key Features of the IT3 System
The IT3 Multiwall Pipe System is built on a design principle that ensures the plastic carrier pipe is separated from the steel containment pipe, delivering several key benefits and features that make it the ideal solution for challenging pipeline environments.
Three-Phase Design
The IT3 System features three distinct layers: an inner plastic liner, an outer steel or hard material casing, and a cement grout filling the annular space between them, creating a robust multiwall piping solution.
Flange or Flange-Free Installation
The system eliminates the need for numerous flanges, simplifying installation and reducing potential leak points. This is dependent on valves, flow monitors, and other components.
Controlled Stress State
The plastic liner remains within its elastic deformation range, extending its lifespan and preventing stress-related failures common in other piping systems.
Liner Material Flexibility
Any type of plastic pipe can be used as the liner, offering adaptability for different applications and fluid types, from corrosive chemicals to high-temperature streams.
Corrosion Protection
The high pH of the cement grout passivates steel and acts as an inhibitor between the OD of the inner liner and ID of the outer steel casing, providing a secondary corrosion defense system.
High-Performance Under Pressure
The IT3 System can handle pressures from vacuum to 3500 psi, making it suitable for a wide range of industrial applications from low-pressure drainage to high-pressure transport lines.
Specialized Features
Collar Coupling
New IT piping systems incorporate a patented coupling device, the Collar, enabling simultaneous welding of the steel and fiberglass components for a robust joint. This innovative coupling technology ensures:
- Leak-free connections between pipe sections
- Maintenance of the three-phase integrity throughout the pipeline
- Simplified installation and joining process
- Enhanced structural integrity at connection points
In-Situ Rejuvenation
This proprietary process revitalizes existing pipelines, restoring them to optimal performance and operating standards through the IT3 multiwall system. The in-situ rejuvenation process offers:
- Minimal disruption to surrounding infrastructure
- Significant cost savings compared to full replacement
- Extended pipeline life by decades
- Improved flow characteristics and reduced maintenance
- Ability to address localized corrosion issues effectively
Centralization Technology
The IT3 System features a unique approach to liner centralization within the outer casing:
Without the use of any centralizers, the plastic liner surrounded by cement slurry with a specific gravity of 1.8 will rise to the top/12:00 position causing a buoyancy effect. This is exceptionally beneficial in rejuvenation applications since the majority of localized corrosion occurs at the bottom of the pipeline.
Even with varying grout thickness (e.g., 0.3" at the top and 1.2" at the bottom), stress on the plastic liner varies insignificantly. With most standard in-situ rejuvenations, it is preferred to avoid the use of centralizers, though in other intricate situations, centralizing techniques have been and will be used.
Applications
The main target with the majority of multilayer processes is to combine various properties that are difficult, if not impossible to achieve in a single material. The IT3 System is suitable for a wide range of applications:
Oil & Gas Pipelines
For crude oil, refined products, and natural gas transport with corrosion protection
Chemical Processing
For handling corrosive chemicals and preventing contamination
Mining Operations
For slurry transport and acid-resistant applications
Municipal Infrastructure
For water and wastewater systems with extended service life
Submarine Pipelines
With enhanced stability and corrosion resistance in marine environments
Power Utilities
For cooling water systems and process piping with thermal insulation
Discover the IT3 System Advantage
Contact our team to learn more about how the IT3 System's features can address your specific pipeline challenges.