pipebursting

Pipe bursting is a trenchless technique used to replace buried pipelines without extensive excavation. In a typical installation, an old pipe is fractured or split while a new pipe is pulled into place behind a bursting head, allowing replacement of the line while minimizing surface disruption.

The process begins with access pits dug at intervals along the line. A bursting head attached to a cable or rod string is driven through the existing pipe by hydraulic or pneumatic force. As the head advances, it fractures the old pipe and pulls new pipe behind it, which is connected to the trailing end of the tool. The broken pipe fragments are crushed and pushed into surrounding soil, while the new pipe takes over the service.

Pipe bursting is commonly used for water, sewer, and gas lines, and can accommodate ductile iron, PVC, and other materials, including some aged pipes. It enables upsizing and restoration with minimized surface disturbance, and can be faster and less disruptive than open-cut replacement in suitable soils.

Site selection depends on soil conditions and utility access, with limitations in rocky terrain, high groundwater, or shallow cover. Safety and planning are essential, including utility locating, permits, shoring of excavation pits, and testing of the new line after installation.