Restoring full hydraulic capacity over 645 meters with Exotec technology in Chateauguay
- Client : Chateauguay City
- Réalisation : 15/04/2025
THE CONTEXT
A challenging technical environment
The City of Châteauguay was facing a recurring issue on Ross Street: a significant reduction in hydraulic capacity within a 645-meter section of cast-iron watermain. The buildup of internal deposits and corrosion had deteriorated the pipe to the point of compromising available network pressure, notably affecting the fire hydrants—formerly “slide-gate” models—now inadequate for today’s operational requirements.
Initially, a solution involving excavation had been considered. However, in order to reduce costs and minimize surface impacts, the City chose to replace the outdated hydrants with modern models that allow direct access to the watermain without opening the ground. In this context, the City commissioned Soleno Service to carry out the rehabilitation using EXOTEC technology, a trenchless method designed to restore the hydraulic capacity of potable water pipes.
CHALLENGES
An area with low valve density
The project took place in an area with a low density of valves, which caused temporary water service interruptions for some residents between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. for four days. Despite these constraints, the work progressed quickly thanks to exemplary coordination between the City, the teams in the field, and residents.
When the pipe was put back into service after the first day of work, a connection failed. This break, caused by advanced external corrosion, provided an unexpected opportunity: the damaged pipe could be inspected directly, revealing the excellent internal cleaning achieved using EXOTEC technology. This was concrete proof that the hydraulic capacity of the network had indeed been restored.
THE SOLUTION
A measured and impressive improvement
To restore the network’s performance without excavation, the EXOTEC technology was deployed. This solution rehabilitates the hydraulic capacity of watermains from the inside using high-performance mechanical cleaning that removes internal tubercles. The work was carried out directly through the new fire hydrants, eliminating the need to open the roadway.
Network performance was measured before and after the intervention. The Hazen-Williams coefficient—an essential indicator of hydraulic capacity—increased from 33 to 108, a significant improvement demonstrating the project’s success.
This project highlights not only the effectiveness of EXOTEC technology, but also the value of close collaboration between the City, residents, and field teams. Together, they completed the work in record time despite the technical constraints.
Our Service
Soleno Service: practical solutions for more sustainable networks
The reference in underground infrastructure rehabilitation
Thanks to its cutting-edge expertise in trenchless rehabilitation and its mastery of technologies such as EXOTEC, Soleno Service offers municipalities a sustainable, economical, and rapid way to refurbish their drinking water networks. The City of Châteauguay project is a fine example of a measurable, sustainable, and intelligent result.
