Pipe Splitting for Replacing Sewer and Water Lines
Pipe splitting is a trenchless method used to replace existing pipelines without the need for excavating an open trench. This process involves drawing a head with cutter blades the length of the pipe to split the existing pipe along its length while simultaneously pulling a new pipe of the same or larger diameter into place behind it. This makes for an efficient method for pipeline replacement.
Pipe Splitting is particularly useful in areas where digging trenches would be highly disruptive and costly. Pipe Splitting is useful for upgrading aging infrastructure, especially sewer and water lines, without causing major disruptions to traffic and daily life.
Lead Pipe Replacement
A typical use for pipe splitting is replacing old lead water pipes. Although lead pipes were banned for use as water lines in 1986, millions of miles of them are still in use today. Replacing lead pipes with pipes made from other materials is the most reliable way to eliminate lead exposure from drinking water. Let General Rooter determine if your pipes are lead and need replacing.
Is Pipe Splitting Right for Me?
There are several considerations that the experts at General Rooter need to consider:
- Pipe Material: Pipe Splitting is commonly used to replace pipes made of ductile steel, ductile iron, and plastic pipes that don’t fracture easily with other bursting techniques. Brittle materials, such as clay or concrete, may not split cleanly.
- Pipe Condition: Severely collapsed or deformed pipes may not be suitable for slitting, as the cutting tools might be unable to navigate through the damaged sections.
- Adjacent Infrastructure: There is a risk of damaging nearby underground utilities, especially in congested areas. Accurate location and identification of adjacent services are crucial.
- Diameter Limitations: The technique may not be suitable for very large-diameter pipes or significant upsizing.
- Soil Conditions: Certain soil types, such as high water tables or loose soils, can complicate the process and reduce its effectiveness.
The trenchless technology experts at General Rooter will determine which pipe repair or replacement method would work best for your situation. We also provide pipe bursting, pipe lining, and excavating for open trench pipe repair, whichever is deemed necessary and cost-efficient.
Would you like to explore alternative methods for pipe replacement or have any other questions about trenchless technologies? Call General Rooter at 507-550-2564
What about Pipe Slitting?
Pipe Slitting is a term less commonly used than Pipe Splitting when discussing trenchless pipe repair technology. It generally refers to the process of cutting a pipe into segments longitudinally along its length using an internal head with cutter blades. It can be used in various industries for different purposes, such as creating pipe openings for maintenance or installing new components.
Contact General Rooter
For all your damaged pipe repair or replacement needs in Southern Minnesota, call General Rooter of Southern MN at 507-550-2564. We provide these services in and around the cities of Albert Lea, Austin, Le Sueur, Mankato, Owatonna, Rochester, and Saint James.