#Japan #Osaka #Sekisui Chemical #SPR Method #Sewer Rehabilitation

Expansion of the SPR Method

Sekisui Chemical Co., Ltd. (President: Keita Kato), through its Environment and Lifelines Company (President: Yoshiyuki Hirai), is enhancing the lineup of the SPR (Sewer Pipe Rehabilitation) Method in collaboration with Tokyo Sewerage Service Co., Ltd. and Adachi Construction Co., Ltd. The SPR Method now offers various solutions capable of rehabilitating a wide range of sewer pipe sizes from small to extremely large diameters, revitalizing old pipes to make them equivalent to new ones.

From July 29 (Tuesday) to August 1 (Friday), 2025, Sekisui will be showcasing at the "Sewerage Exhibition '25 Osaka" held at Intex Osaka. They will present the latest self-standing pipeline rehabilitation method, the "SPR-SE Method Expand Type"—marking its debut in the Kansai region—as well as a variety of solutions aimed at repairing aging pipes of all shapes and sizes.

SPR Method Overview

The SPR Method was developed in 1986 and is a trenchless pipe rehabilitation technique. It involves creating a rehabilitation pipe made from rigid polyvinyl chloride (PVC) profiles that are inserted into the existing pipe. The gap between the existing and rehabilitation pipe is filled with a special backing material, creating a durable composite pipe that rejuvenates the old sewer infrastructure.

This technique has been recognized with numerous awards, including the first Monozukuri Nippon Grand Award Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Award (2005), the 59th Okouchi Memorial Prize (2014), and the Good Design Award in 2013, among others.

Features of the SPR Method

1. Trenchless Installation: All machinery can be inserted from the manhole, eliminating the need for road excavation. This minimizes waste generation and traffic congestion, contributing to CO2 reduction.
2. Flowing Water Installation: The method allows for installation while water is still flowing, eliminating the need for temporary drainage measures.
3. Versatile Shapes: It accommodates all cross-sectional shapes, including circular, rectangular, and horseshoe.
4. Seismic Resistance: Ideal for pipelines under critical infrastructure such as evacuation facilities and major roads, enhancing their seismic resilience.

Evolution of the SPR Method

The introduction of the "SPR-NX Method" (effective for diameters ranging from 800mm to 2200mm) has taken the original SPR Method's features and enhanced equipment compactness. This minimizes flow obstruction during construction, significantly shortening project timelines.

1. Flow Obstruction Rate: Reduced to less than 10% due to smaller equipment,
effectively managing abrupt water level increases from heavy rainfall.
2. Shortened Construction Time: Simplified support structures lead to a shorter time frame for installation.

SPR-SE Method: Innovative Self-Standing Technique

The SPR-SE Method is unique as the only self-standing rehabilitation method that allows for the pipeline to be installed while water flows. It no longer relies on the strength of the existing pipe to maintain its structure, enabling rehabilitation of severely degraded pipelines with unknown residual strength.

1. Broad Diameter Application: Supports pipes ranging from 450mm to 2000mm.
2. Compatibility with Various Pipe Types: Suitable for reinforced concrete pipes, reinforced plastic composite pipes, and corrugated pipes.

Latest Method: SPR-SE Method Expand Type

With the same advantages of the SPR method, the latest "SPR-SE Method Expand Type" allows for installation while maintaining a fully trenchless approach without odor control measures. By expanding the rehabilitation pipe, it closely adheres to the existing pipe, efficiently constructing a robust self-standing infrastructure with minimal materials required.

Comprehensive Solutions at the Expo

At their booth during the Sewerage Exhibition '25 Osaka, Sekisui Chemical will not only showcase these various SPR methods but will also present solutions addressing diverse challenges surrounding sewer management, including rainwater flooding measures, emergency manhole toilets, and Water PPP projects. In partnership with affiliated company Sekisui Aqua Systems Corporation, they will introduce water treatment technologies as well.

We encourage attendees to visit the Sekisui Chemical booth for a detailed exploration of these innovative technologies.

Event Details

• - Date: July 29 - August 1, 2025 (Open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with early opening at 10:30 AM on July 29 and a closing at 4:00 PM on August 1)
• - Location: Intex Osaka
• - Booth: Hall 5, Zone A, Booth 5-118

Pre-registration is required for attendance.

For more information, visit Sekisui Chemical's Environment and Lifelines Company contact page.