How Trenchless Pipe Bursting is Carried Out

There’s no question that trenchless technology offers a more streamlined approach to repairing or replacing underground pipes. One of the more popular methods is pipe bursting, a cost-effective and efficient solution for dealing with severely damaged or failing pipelines. Read on as our experts at Sewer Solutions NW outline this process of trenchless pipe replacement.

Initial Inspection

Like any other method of trenchless pipe repair or replacement, a thorough inspection and assessment are done before any work begins. Inserting a specialized camera can help determine the extent of damage, the type of material used, and any potential obstacles that may impede the pipe bursting process.

Preparation

Once an inspection has been completed and the damaged areas have been identified, technicians will prepare for the trenchless sewer repair process by locating the entry and exit points for the new pipe. This is done by creating small access pits at both ends of the damaged section or using existing access points such as manholes or cleanouts.

Insertion of Bursting Equipment

A bursting head with a diameter slightly larger than the old pipe is then inserted into one of the access pits. This bursting head is attached to a high-powered hydraulic system that pulls it through the old pipe, breaking it apart and pushing the fragments into the surrounding soil.

Installation of New Pipeline

As the bursting head moves through the damaged pipe, a new seamless pipeline is pulled behind it and inserted where the old pipe used to be. The new pipe is typically made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), known for its durability and resistance to corrosion.

Final Touches

Once the new pipe has been successfully pulled into place and connected to the existing system, final touches are made such as sealing any remaining gaps or repairing any damage to landscaping that may have occurred during the trenchless sewer replacement process. The access pits are then filled and compacted, leaving minimal disturbance to the surrounding area.

Sewer Solutions NW specializes in no-dig solutions like pipe bursting and trenchless pipe lining in Bellevue, WA. We are dedicated to providing efficient, cost-effective services for all your sewer-related needs. Contact us today or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment.