Arlington (TX) Water Utilities (AWU) maintains over 1,440 miles of water mains, including approximately 578 miles of existing asbestos cement (AC) pipe. In 2015, 72% of water main breaks were on AC pipe. AWU is taking a proactive approach to ensure system reliability by targeting high maintenance water mains. AWU previously employed pipe bursting construction methods that relied on rod type bursting systems. In 2017, AWU field operations teamed with TRIC Tools, Inc. to replace approximately 850 feet of existing 6-inch AC water main with 8-inch HDPE by pipe bursting methods. The TRIC Tools system utilizes a wire steel cable instead of rods to provide the pull force required to burst existing pipe materials and pull in a new larger diameter pipe. The maximum installation rate achieved was approximately 200 feet per hour. The pilot project was completed in two days and saved residents more than $125,000, when compared to traditional open cut methods. In addition, AWU crews gained valuable experience for future pipe-bursting projects. Pipe bursting construction preserves right-of-way and minimizes surface disruption (pavement, sidewalks, etc.), resulting in lower overall costs and less customer impact at productivity rates equal to or exceeding traditional open cut methods. This presentation will address issues that require consideration when replacing water mains by pipe bursting methods.
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