Rehabilitation of Underground Infrastructure Utilizing Trenchless Pipe Replacement

Abstract

Trenchless pipe replacement, or pipe bursting, is a construction method that provides an alternative for rehabilitating underground infrastructure with minimal disruption to surface traffic. It is recognized as the only method of trenchless pipe rehabilitation in which a buried pipe can be replaced with a completely new pipe that functions independently of the existing line and permits the diameter of the new line to be increased. This paper presents an overview of three bursting systems currently used in the North American industry with discussion on the anatomy of a pipe bursting project, sequencing, risks, and a comparison of project elements to traditional open trench methods of construction. This paper concludes with three case studies describing the application of pipe bursting on projects that extended the current operating envelope of the technology to illustrate project specific engineered solutions to particular rehabilitation requirements. Through the sharing of knowledge and experience, a greater understanding of the technology and its application may be achieved to promote trenchless pipe replacement as a viable alternative to open cut construction methods.