#Japan #Hiroshima #Infrastructure #Sekisui Chemical #Eslor

Introduction of a Groundbreaking Pipe-in-Pipe Technology

Sekisui Chemical Co., Ltd. has made a significant advancement in the rehabilitation of aging water pipes with the introduction of their new pipe-in-pipe method. This innovative product, named Eslor Hyper JW-PINP, is designed specifically for non-dig rehabilitation of water systems and will be officially launched on October 8, 2025. The need for advanced solutions in this field has never been more pressing, given the aging infrastructure across Japan.

Background and Necessity

As of now, Japan boasts an extensive network of approximately 740,000 kilometers of water pipelines, many established during the economic boom in the 1950s and 1960s. A concerning 17.6% of these pipes have surpassed their legal lifespan of 40 years, with estimates suggesting that by 2040, the proportion could rise to a staggering 66%. This deterioration leads to over 20,000 incidents of leaks and breaks annually, resulting in serious challenges such as murky water, water supply interruptions, health risks, and increased damage during disasters. Alarmingly, the annual renewal rate of these pipes is only about 0.64%, indicating that complete replacement could take upwards of 130 years.

Factors Hindering Rehabilitation

The slow pace of rehabilitation can be attributed to several factors, including declining water revenue due to population decrease and water-saving initiatives, as well as the presence of numerous sections where excavation work is unfeasible. The shortage of construction workers adds to the complexity of this pressing issue. As a response to these challenges, Sekisui Chemical has focused on developing a new product based on the pipe-in-pipe method using polyethylene pipes, aiming to overcome these obstacles and promote timely rehabilitation of aged water infrastructure.

How the Pipe-in-Pipe Method Works

The innovative installation process involves inserting the Eslor Hyper JW-PINP within existing pipes from a starting pit and drawing it through to a destination pit using a winch. This non-dig technique ensures minimal disruption while effectively rehabilitating old pipelines.

Product Specifications

The Eslor Hyper JW-PINP will be available in several specifications:

• - Sizes: 75×50, 100×75, 150×100, 200×150
• - Lengths: 5.0 meters and 2.5 meters

Key Features of Eslor Hyper JW-PINP

1. Reliable Installation Using Standard EF Fusion: The Eslor Hyper JW-PINP connects via the standard electric fusion method (EF fusion), allowing for consistent quality and the ability to be installed by local waterworks companies without specialized expertise.

2. Smooth Insertion with Flat Connection Area: Thanks to its design, the connection area and outer pipe diameter are flattened, which allows for seamless insertion into existing infrastructure.

3. Size Reduction for Improved Flow: The system enables rehabilitation with a reduction of one size from the original pipe diameter, minimizing flow loss compared to traditional methods requiring a two-size reduction.

4. Exterior Protective Layer: The outer section of the pipe includes a protective layer to prevent damage during installation.

Showcase at the 2025 Hiroshima Water Exhibition

The Eslor Hyper JW-PINP will make its debut at the 2025 Hiroshima Water Exhibition, which is set to take place from October 29 to 31, 2025. Attendees are encouraged to visit the Sekisui Chemical booth and view the product firsthand.

Event Details

• - Date: October 29-31, 2025
• - Location: Hiroshima Gate Park, Hiroshima, Japan

Visit 2025 Hiroshima Water Exhibition for more information.

Conclusion

Sekisui Chemical's new pipe-in-pipe product represents a significant milestone in the modernization and rehabilitation of Japan's aging water systems. With its innovative features and non-dig approach, it promises to address the urgent need for infrastructure renewal and ensure the continued safety and reliability of water supply throughout the nation.