Municipal pipeline systems are essential to delivering clean water, managing wastewater, and maintaining public health for towns and cities around the world. However, aging infrastructure and increasing demands put many of these critical systems at risk. United Pipeline Systems has been a trusted partner for municipalities for over 40 years, delivering advanced thermoplastic lining solutions that extend pipeline lifespan and reduce overall maintenance costs.
With over 20,000 miles of Tite Liner® installed worldwide, United Pipeline provides municipalities with a proven alternative to full pipeline replacement. By reinforcing existing infrastructure, cities and utility providers can prevent corrosion, reduce leaks, and improve water quality—all while minimizing service disruptions.
Challenges Facing Municipal Pipeline Infrastructure
Much of the municipal pipeline infrastructure across North America is well past its intended lifespan. Many water and wastewater pipelines were designed to last 75 to 100 years, yet much of the network in operation today was built between the late 1800s and mid-1900s. As these pipelines age, corrosion, leaks, and contamination become increasing concerns, threatening both water quality and public safety.
At the same time, urban populations continue to grow at a rapid pace, with 4.4 billion people (more than half of the world’s population) currently residing in cities. This shift to urbanization puts an even greater strain on aging municipal systems that were not designed to handle modern demand—leading to higher stress on existing pipelines and an increased risk of failures. Leaks and bursts disrupt essential services and require expensive emergency repairs.
Replacing failing pipelines is a major financial burden for municipalities, with costs reaching millions of dollars per mile. Full replacement projects also involve extensive excavation, road closures, and service interruptions. As a result, many cities and utility providers are turning to rehabilitation strategies that restore pipeline integrity without the high costs and disruptions of replacement.
United Pipeline’s Lining Solutions for Municipalities
Municipalities need solutions that help extend infrastructure lifespan but that still fit within their budgets and minimize disruption to vital services. United Pipeline’s Tite Liner® system delivers long-term pipeline protection by preventing corrosion and minimizing leaks in existing pipelines. Designed for durability, flexibility, and chemical resistance, Tite Liner® offers municipalities a cost-effective alternative to full pipeline replacement.
United Pipeline’s compressed-fit technology allows for a seamless, continuous lining inside existing pipes, ensuring maximum performance and flow without reducing internal diameter. This system includes two primary liner types, engineered to meet different pipeline needs:
- Non-Structural Compressed Fit Liners (Class III) – Designed for pipelines that remain structurally sound but require corrosion protection. These thin-wall liners (typically DR 32.5 or thinner) rely on the strength of the host pipe while eliminating leaky joints and internal corrosion. The maximum internal pressure is determined by the existing pipe’s capabilities, making this an ideal solution for extending service life without major structural modifications.
- Structural Compressed Fit Liners (Class IV) – Built for pipelines that are no longer structurally sound and need additional reinforcement. These liners are thicker (typically DR 32.5 to DR 17) and can handle external loading, ensuring pipeline integrity even when sections of the host pipe must be removed. This solution addresses both internal and external corrosion, restoring functionality to compromised pipelines.
By integrating proven technology with decades of expertise, United Pipeline helps municipalities rehabilitate critical infrastructure and reduce long-term maintenance requirements.
Why Tite Liner® is the Smart Choice for Municipal Projects
Aging pipelines create financial and logistical challenges for cities and utility providers. Extensive excavation and full replacement projects put significant strain on tightly managed budgets, disrupt local communities, and can take years to complete. Tite Liner® eliminates these roadblocks, offering a solution that strengthens pipelines while keeping costs and disruptions low.
- Cost Savings – Rehabilitation is significantly cheaper and faster than full pipeline replacement, reducing capital expenses and project timelines.
- Minimal Disruption – Trenchless technology eliminates the need for extensive digging, preserving roadways and reducing impact on traffic and residents.
- Improved Flow Efficiency – HDPE’s low-friction coefficient enhances water flow, outperforming both ferrous and non-ferrous materials.
- Long-Term Reliability – Designed for a 50+ year service life, minimizing ongoing maintenance and replacement costs.
- Secure, Seamless Fit – The liner is locked in place without the need for grout, creating a continuous barrier that spans leaky joints, holes, and gaps.
- Custom-Engineered for Complex Installations – Manufactured to fit a range of pipeline conditions, offering added flexibility in challenging environments.
City projects demand reliable, long-term pipeline solutions that minimize cost and disruption. Tite Liner® delivers proven durability, improved performance, and a streamlined installation process—keeping infrastructure intact and communities running efficiently.
Case Studies: Real Projects, Real Success
When pipeline integrity is compromised, the consequences can be disastrous. Municipalities need solutions that work under real-world conditions, and these projects demonstrate how Tite Liner® has delivered lasting results, even in complex installations.
Tredyffrin Township, PA
A 30-inch PCCP force main installed in the 1970s was showing signs of failure, putting wastewater infrastructure at risk. With traditional replacement options too costly and disruptive, they needed a fast, durable solution. United Pipeline installed 18,000 feet of custom 30-inch HDPE liner across 31 pulls, including two river crossings, to create a seamless, corrosion-resistant barrier. The project increased flow capacity, reduced long-term costs, and was completed with zero safety incidents—earning recognition as an award-winning rehabilitation effort.
Learn more about this project here.
Laramie, WY
An 18-mile carbon steel gravity pipeline built in the 1940s had deteriorated due to internal coal tar coating failure, threatening drinking water quality for thousands of residents. To restore pipeline integrity, United Pipeline installed HDPE liner across 46 sections, with the longest pull spanning 3,100 feet. The result was a fully rehabilitated system that improved water quality, met project deadlines, and stayed within budget. With zero safety incidents, this project was recognized as Wyoming’s Project of the Year for its efficiency and effectiveness.
Learn more about this project here.
United Pipeline: Engineering Better Solutions for Municipalities
Maintaining safe, reliable pipelines is a growing challenge as city infrastructures age and are simultaneously tasked with withstanding increased use. United Pipeline delivers more than just a quick fix—it provides a long-term solution. With industry-leading compressed-fit liner technology and a track record of award-winning projects, their solutions restore pipeline integrity while keeping costs and disruptions low.Municipalities across the country trust United Pipeline to extend pipeline life, improve flow efficiency, and eliminate corrosion risks. Get in touch today to see how Tite Liner® can strengthen your infrastructure for the future.