Patent ID: 8083975

Claim:
A method for trenchless rehabilitation of an existing pipeline from a first access point to a second access point by inserting a flexible resin impregnated liner from the first access point to the second access point and inflating the liner to conform the liner to the existing pipeline and curing the resin in the liner, comprising: providing a selectively sealable bulkhead fitting with a cap closing the bulkhead fitting mounted to a catch sleeve with an opening through the catch sleeve; placing the catch sleeve and closed bulkhead fitting at the second access point; installing the resin impregnated liner in the existing pipeline from the first access point to the second access point and through the catch sleeve at the second access point; inflating the liner to sealingly engage the catch sleeve about the liner and urging the bulkhead fitting against the inflated liner without deflating the liner; removing the cap and installing a porting valve and exhaust assembly with a gland for receiving a hole saw shaft on to the bulkhead fitting while maintaining pressure in the interior of the liner; forming an opening in the liner with the hole saw without allowing the liner to deflate; closing the valve and removing the hole saw; installing an exhaust hose on the ported bulkhead exhaust assembly; introducing steam into the interior of the liner; opening the valve to allow the steam to flow through the liner and exit through the exhaust hose; and allowing the resin in the liner to cure.