FAQs

OBIC products are created using a process designed to preserve natural resources. Polyurea products are petrochemicals, but they use far less water, produce lower levels of industrial wasted, and emit less carbon than some other materials including concrete) that are often used for water infiltration, sewer corrosion, and manhole rehabilitation and repairs. 

Yes, our linings are completely safe for potable water. All of our products comply with the NSF/ANSI 61 requirements, which are certified by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) to be completely safe in contact with potable water. 

OBIC uses materials and processes that make the liners extremely effective at preventing corrosion due to H2S (hydrogen sulfide), so they can be used in a wide variety of environments where other materials are likely to decay or deteriorate over time. They are also designed to withstand chemical attack on structures that can lead to water infiltration, exfiltration, corrosion, abrasives, and other concerns. 

This is different from materials like rigid epoxy because it can withstand a wider range of temperature extremes and heavy traffic that would otherwise lead to damage. Even in these harsh environments, OBIC lining retains its flexibility so you don’t have to worry about cracking over the course of time as the concrete moves. For these reasons, OBIC liners are designed to remain intact much longer than other common materials used in water system construction or rehabilitation.

The type and amount of surface preparation varies based on the application substrate. For 4-foot diameter manholes we will use a water blaster with 3500psi to clean the interior. For larger areas (over 6 feet in diameter) we use an ultra-high-pressure hydroblaster with over 30,000psi to prepare and profile the surface. Additionally, steel or fiberglass structure linings require preparation with sandblasting or mechanical abrading. 

The exact time for surface preparation varies based on two factors: (1) the size of your structure, and (2) the presence of defects that must be addressed and corrected before we can begin the OBIC installation. We can provide you with an estimate of how much preparation will be required prior to the start of your project. Contact a member of the Advanced Lining team to discuss the specifics.

Definitely. Polyurea properties include extremely strong adhesion to both steel surfaces and concrete, making it ideal for applications in roadways. Once applied, it can withstand a higher range of temperatures than most concrete, and is flexible enough to avoid damage or cracking even under heavy traffic or freeze-thaw conditions.

Rigid materials used for rehabilitation are susceptible to damage when the area around them shifts and moves. Roadways experience significant pressure from heavy traffic, ground shifts, and disturbance from freeze/thaw cycles every year. When you add water and other corrosive elements, it leads to small cracks and fractures that allow gasses through the coating and will eventually fail. Polyurea has a very strong bond and flexibility so it bends, but won’t break (or crack).

The decision to put a structure out of service during rehabilitation is based on the structure and the work required. For example, manholes generally don’t need to be taken out of service because the OBIC lining can be prepared and installed in about four hours. However, larger projects or structures may require more prep work or longer installation, so your helpful Advanced Lining representative can provide an accurate estimate based on your needs.

Infiltration in your water system—even if it’s minor—can cost a lot of money. By eliminating even 2.5 gallons per minute in a manhole you can recoup your investment in just one year. Corrosive environments that damage structures can lead to costly repairs and maintenance as often as every 7 to 10 years. By using OBIC lining from Advanced Lining you can eliminate these expenses and the disruption caused by typical replacement construction, which can provide a significant return on your investment.

Our multi-layer liner system that uses OBIC 1000F can be installed in:

• Wastewater structures
• Industrial wastewater structures
• Headworks
• Manholes
• Wet wells
• Clarifiers
• Lift stations
• Grit chambers

You can install OBIC 1100PW in any potable water application, such as large tangs or pipes. 

The semi-structural liner system OBIC 1200C is used for higher-abrasion-resistance applications, such as municipal or industrial large diameter pipe lining or culvert lining. It has a Flex Mod of 100,000psi and Shore D Hardness of 70, and is recommended for installation into areas 60” in diameter or larger.

ANSI/NSF 61 (NSF-61) certifications are national standards that identify the standard for any equipment that will come in contact with potable water or products used in the production of potable water. These requirements are very stringent, and designed to protect consumers from contaminated water supplies. Because we are a supplier that sells or distributes water treatment products in North America, we have to comply with the section of these regulations on Drinking Water System Components – Health Effects, which regulate drinking water supply in government agencies.

Yes, OBIC 1100PW and OBIC 1505PW are both in compliance with NSF requirements, and are certified by Underwriters Laboratory (UL) for potable water use.

Yes, all our polyurea coatings are made in a facility that is ISO 9001:2015. 

Our manufacturer certifies all the products before sending them to a third party for independent testing and certification.

Yes, the OBIC Armor Multi-Layer line System comes with joint warranty of 10 years. The manufacturer certifies all the parts during that period, and Advanced Lining warranties the installation.