How to Repair a Live Leak with Belzona 3D Mesh

INTRODUCTION TO BELZONA’S UTILIZATION OF 3D TECHNOLOGY

With the use of the latest 3D printing technology, Belzona has developed a Belzona 3D mesh to assist with live leak repairs on straight pipes. This 3D mesh is currently available in North and South American regions and is made from high strength flexible nylon. The flexibility of the mesh allows it to contour pipes of any diameter that is ≥ 3″ (7.62 cm). This eliminates the need to fabricate a metal plate to match the specification of a pipe each time an emergency arises.

Designed to be used with Belzona 1100 and 1200 series, the repair with Belzona 3D mesh is safe, easy to carry out and does not require hot work or specialist tools. The repair can be done in situ without the need to disassemble equipment or remove from service. Belzona repair composites allow for reinforcement of the structural integrity of the pipe and keep it in service for years to come. The Belzona 3D mesh live leak repair not only stops a leak in a timely manner, but also offers corrosion resistance and extends the service life of equipment.

BELZONA HOW-TO

In this blog post we demonstrate how Belzona 3D mesh combined with Belzona repair composites perform a live pipe leak repair in a matter of couple of hours. This repair makes it an excellent alternative to other traditional methods of stopping pipe leaks.

BELZONA 3D MESH DRAWING

VIDEO: HOW TO STOP A PIPE LIVE LEAK WITH BELZONA 3D MESH

To carry out a live pipe leak repair and to reinforce the structural integrity of the pipe, we used Belzona 1212, Belzona 3D Mesh and a few tools from our machine shop. First, we prepared the surface by removing the old paint and roughening it with a file. The entire repair area was then degreased with Belzona 9111 (Cleaner/Degreaser). We measured a suitable length of the reinforcement sheet and cut a hole in the middle to match the opening in the mesh. Next, the entire contents of Belzona 1212 Base and Solidifier were transferred onto a Belzona mixing board. The components were thoroughly mixed until a uniform color was achieved and the material no longer showed any streakiness. Following the mixing, a layer of mixed Belzona 1212 was applied to the Belzona 3D mesh and to the clean repair area on the pipe. The Belzona 3D mesh with the reinforcement sheet was then positioned on the pipe and aligned with the leak. The pipe was wrapped with the reinforcement sheet to secure the Belzona 3D mesh. We smoothed out the surface using the remaining product. Once cured, the plug was inserted and tightened with an Allen key.

SUPPLIES AND TOOLS NEEDED FOR THIS REPAIR

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS OF A LIVE LEAK REPAIR WITH BELZONA 3D MESH

STEP ONE

Prepare Surface

Roughen the surface around the leak area with a file

STEP TWO

Clean Repair Area

Thoroughly clean the repair area to remove all grease, dirt and other contaminants.

STEP THREE

Cut Opening in Reinforcement Tape

As shown below, fold the reinforcement tape and cut a hole to match the opening in the Belzona 3D mesh.

STEP FOUR

Position Tape over Mesh

Carefully position the tape over the Belzona 3D mesh to make sure the opening fits perfectly flush.material in place until it is fully cured.

STEP FIVE

Mix Belzona 1212

Transfer the entire contents of Belzona 1212 Base and Solidifier onto a Belzona mixing board and mix thoroughly until a uniform color, free of any streakiness, is achieved.

STEP SIX

Apply Material onto Mesh

Using a short bristled brush apply the mixed product around the gasket on the Belzona 3D mesh, pressing well into the surface.

STEP SEVEN

Apply Material onto Pipe

Using a short bristled brush apply the mixed product onto the entire repair area of the pipe, pressing well into the surface to ensure excellent adhesion with the substrate.

STEP EIGHT

Wet Out Tape

Wet out a suitable length of Belzona 9341 (Reinforcement Sheet) with the mixed product.

STEP NINE

Wet Out Tape

Wet out a suitable length of Belzona 9341 (Reinforcement Sheet) with the mixed product.

STEP TEN

Position 3D Mesh

Position the Belzona 3D mesh over the hole and wrap with the reinforcement sheet, pressing down firmly.

STEP ELEVEN

Smooth Out Repair Area

Using a Belzona applicator, smooth out the surface to remove excess product.

STEP TWELVE

Insert Plug

Insert the plug into the hole and tighten with an Allen key.

Interested in purchasing Belzona’s repair composites and protective coatings?