A first in Western Visayas, Metro Pacific Iloilo Water (MPIW) introduced a new technology dubbed Tyfo Fibrwarp Pipe (TFP) Rehabilitation System that will hasten the repair of leaky pipelines.
The technology was unveiled at the Carpenters Bridge pipeline in Molo, Iloilo City during a site visit on January 17.
The 150-meter, 600-mm water pipeline constructed in 1987 is a critical asset that supplies water to residents in Molo, Arevalo, and City Proper.
According to MPIW’s asset assessment conducted in January 2023, the pipeline’s structural integrity revealed a potential risk of collapse, necessitating repair.
Engr. Jerry Guillergan, engineering head of MPIW, explained, “This is to improve the life of the pipeline; it will be extended.”
Initially considering pipe replacement, MPIW opted for the TFP Rehabilitation System due to its effectiveness and the inconvenience associated with water interruption during pipe replacement which lasts 2-3 months.
MPIW Chief Operating Officer Robert Cabiles said that while the pipe met the 150-pound per square inch (psi) test pressure, significant issues were identified during the assessment, prompting the need for immediate repair.
The Tyfo Fibrwrap system was chosen for its reliability, shorter repair schedule, and flexible installation processes.
Through the combination of innovative trenchless technology and repair methods, MPIW can safely renew a vital piece of infrastructure while minimizing expense and impact on the Esplanade River.
“We want to recover more water for our customers at the soonest possible time without causing interruption to our customers, to property, and the environment so we are constantly on the lookout for technologies and innovations that will allow us to do this” added Cabiles.
The rehabilitation project, costing Php 15 million, is significantly less than the conventional approach of replacing every pipe segment, which could cost up to Php 57 million.