Pipe Restoration Technologies, LLC, (PRT), makers of the ePIPE®, Lead-Free Leak-Free and LeadSmart® product lines, announced that it has been granted European patent #EP2974800. This patent is related to the ePIPE System of “in-place” pipe restoration providing protection against leaks and harmful lead leaching from water supply pipes including lead service lines (LSLs). PRT’s United States’ patent portfolio also provides coverage of the ePIPE process for reduction of lead and copper leaching from water supply pipes.

The latest patent comes as the UK ePIPE service provider, Pipe Restoration Services, uses the patented epoxy coating pipe lining system in its rehabilitation projects involving approximately 35,000 LSLs in the Greater London area. 

In the UK, ePIPE is the only epoxy-based product and process approved by both the Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) to Reg 31(4)(a) and the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS) for use on lead service lines, providing approved protection from the water main to the kitchen tap.

U.S. EPA and Water Research Foundation sponsored WRF Report 4351 - Evaluation of Lead Service Line Lining and Coating Technologies concluded: “Coating technologies can effectively reduce or eliminate release of lead from LSLs, are expected to have a long service life and can potentially result in significant cost savings… Recommended for consideration by both public water systems and property owners.”

Pipes with an internal diameter as small as 12mm (1/2") can be protected in-place, preventing leaks and lead leaching into drinking water. Once lead pipes are protected by the patented ePIPE process, drinking water will test in compliance with World Health Organization Guidelines for lead (Pb). ePIPE is certified by NSF/ANSI Standard 61 for an immediate return to service in as little as 90 minutes.

An estimated 16 million LSLs in the U.S. and the U.K. remain in use.