Abstract: A method is provided for cutting and removing underwater pipelines. The method comprises (a) determining the position of the underwater pipeline to be removed;(b) positioning, on the line a guide for positioning a cutter and a device for recovering the cut pipe sections, the guide being able to be repositioned along the line and being stably connected to a boat intended to collect the recovered sections; (c) guided positioning of the cutter and guided positioning of the device for recovering the cut pipe; (d) cutting of the pipe section of predetermined length and subsequent removal of the section by using the device for recovering the cut pipe; (e) transfer of the pipe section recovered by the recovery device to the boat; and (f) repositioning of the guide along the remaining line portion to be removed and repetition of the preceding steps(c) to(e) until the underwater pipeline has been completely removed. An apparatus for implementing this method is also provided.

Abstract: This document discusses, among other things, devices, apparatuses, and methods for the replacement of existing underground pipes. In general, an apparatus comprises a body, including a receiving portion, and a breaking assembly adapted to be positioned within the receiving portion and detachably coupled to the body. In one example, the body and the breaking assembly are adapted, when coupled, to split the existing underground pipe when pulled therethrough using one or more cutting wheels. In varying examples, each cutting wheel radially protrudes out of a breaking assembly housing an increasing amount along a length of the apparatus allowing for a clean, progressive cut of the existing pipe. In another example, the body and the breaking assembly are adapted, when coupled, to burst the existing pipe when pulled therethrough. Advantageously, the present devices, apparatuses, and methods may provide replacement of underground pipes requiring minimal excavation and making economical use of parts.

Abstract: A device and method for pipe replacement is shown. A pipe replacement device is shown that includes at least one scoring wheel to provide a more progressive cut that provides consistency in the split of the pipe. A pulling force is reduced using pipe replacement devices and methods in a splitting operation. A pipe replacement device is shown that includes at least one skid structures with a long and consistent profile. In methods shown, friction between a pipe replacement device and the pipe being split is reduced.

Abstract: Trenchless pipe replacement apparatus equipped with articulated lead sections that flex and accommodate an irregular path of an old pipe line. The articulated lead sections are coupled together by a flexible joint that allows the lead section assembly to flex and follow the path of the old pipe line that may be irregular due to misaligned pipe sections, dropped joints and other irregularities.

Abstract: A method of salvaging a pipeline in a marine environment is disclosed. The method provides a frame having a perimeter that surrounds a pair of opposed cutting blades, the frame having a gate that enables the frame to be selectively placed around or removed from a section of pipeline to be cut. As part of the method, the frame is placed on a pipeline by first opening the gate and then closing the gate once the pipeline is in an opening that is at the center of the frame. The center opening is generally rectangular in shape once the gate is closed. The cutter blades are moved toward one another, preferably with one blade being the moving blade and the other being a fixed blade. The cutter blades move toward one another until they overlap. At the time that they overlap, the cutter blades are prevented from deflecting in a direction normal to the direction of travel by a pair of guide rails that trap the moving blade in between the fixed blade and the guide rails.

Abstract: Device for arresting the propagation of a buckle in a double walled pipe. The device comprising an outer pipe wall having a defined external diameter and placed around an inner pipe wall, defining an annular space between the said outer and inner walls; providing predetermined regions in the annular space which are bounded between two sealing blocks with radially opposed faces which are in contact with the outer and inner pipes; placing a curable compound in each region and curing it the length of each region is at least equal to 0.5 times the external diameter of the outer wall.

Abstract: A puller is provided with a number of advantages. Pullers are described that have a high power to weight ratio, and a high power to volume ratio. Examples of pullers and pulling systems include harmonic drive gear reduction elements and configurations that provide high cable friction in a small device volume. Examples of pullers and pulling systems also include constant force pulling which is desirable in particular for small diameter pipe replacement. Using pullers and pulling systems as described, minimally invasive pipe replacement operations are possible. Reversible pullers are also provided that decrease the amount of time needed to burst or split multiple segments of pipe.

Abstract: Novel thermoplastic pipes which can withstand extremely high internally generated and/or applied pressures for utilization within, primarily, high pressure underground liquid and gas transport systems are provided. Such pipes are improvements over standard metal (i.e., steel, lead, and the like) pipes due to construction costs, shipping costs, implementation costs (particularly underground), modulus strength allowances to compensate for underground movements (i.e., earthquakes and tremors), non-rusting characteristics, and ease in manufacture. Such pipes are preferably reinforced with specific fabric articles which permit a lower thickness of plastic to be utilized than is generally required to withstand high pressure situations. A one-step, potentially on-site production method, is also contemplated within this invention.

Abstract: An expansion loop for an above-ground pipeline that utilizes cold bent pipe sections having a bend angle of less than 90 degrees and a bend rate (in degrees per foot) of relatively low severity.

Abstract: A cutting system for splitting pipes includes a main body and at least one blade and at least two blade mount assemblies by which the blade may optionally be connected to the main body. The first blade mount assembly, in a particular fitted state, holds the blade at a different distance from the longitudinal axis of the main body than the second blade mount assembly.

Abstract: A method of advancing a mole to define a passageway through a composition between first and second locations spaced from each other a substantial first distance. The method includes the steps of: attaching the mole to a cable; providing a support; providing a cable pulling assembly on the support; and operating the cable pulling assembly to cause a pulling force on the cable to be continuously applied through the cable pulling assembly to the cable and therethrough to the mole to thereby cause the mole to be advanced in a path a substantial second distance at least partially over the first distance between the first and second locations.

Abstract: Devices and methods for streamlining the completion of work functions within a lateral pipe connected to a main pipe. A variety of different lateral devices may be used to aid in the process of relining the main or lateral pipe. A lateral location device is inserted into the lateral pipe prior to relining of the main pipe and is subsequently used to aid in the conventional cutting of the main-lateral interface. A lateral cutting device actually performs the main-lateral cutting process from within the lateral or from within the main. A lateral inspection device crawls up the lateral for inspection via camera. A lateral relining device aids in the placement of a liner used to reline the lateral pipe. Each of these interchangeable work functions may be optional performed by one or more lateral devices, often carried and inserted by a delivery device.

Abstract: The concrete pipe recycling machine is transportable to job sites for breaking apart concrete pipe and recycling the concrete and the steel reinforcement therein. The concrete pipe recycling machine has a mandrel type anvil which presses the top of the pipe upward toward a hammer which impacts the outside of the pipe such that the energy imparted by the hammer is reflected by the anvil and breaks down the concrete. The concrete aggregate processed by the hammer fall through open mesh with a conveyor thereunder to transport the concrete pieces for recycling. The anvil rotates in gear fashion to rotate the pipe and the hammer traverses axially to reach all portions of the surface of the pipe. The anvil support opens to admit a new pipe to be recycled and to release the steel cage inside of the pipe when the concrete is removed therefrom.

Abstract: A system for installing warning units in a buried pipeline. A small hole is drilled in the ground to the pipeline. A collar is affixed to one of the pipes of the pipeline. A valve with an internal passage is connected to the collar. A hole is drilled in the pipe. A warning unit is installed in the pipe by moving the warning unit through the internal passage, the collar, and the hole in the pipe.

Abstract: A two-stage process for repairing pipes at elevated temperatures and at elevated pressure. The process comprises the steps of preparing and displacing a hose assembly within the pipeline needing repair. A pressure medium is then introduced into the hose assembly raising the first temperature to initiate and facilitate the cross-linking reaction, and then raising the temperature to a second temperature range and pressure to cure or harden the resin. Novel manifolds and access tubes which allow the practicing the process safely are also provided.

Abstract: A process and plant for laying a pipe in a trench comprising placing a flattened tubular preform in the trench, the perform having a reinforcement surrounding an inner seal, the reinforcement being impregnated with a resin, and inflating the perform in the trench.

Abstract: A method of replacing an existing underground pipe, especially a sanitary sewer line, uses a boring machine that advances a drill string of hollow rods through the existing pipe.

Abstract: An impactor for use with a directional boring machine having a drill string connectable to the impactor for pulling the impactor through an existing pipeline uses rotation of the drill string to drive an internal striker. The internal striker delivers impacts in the pulling direction to an impactor housing as the impactor housing tows a replacement pipe behind it. The impactor housing is free to move axially in response to impacts from the striker over a limited distance in the pulling direction independently of the replacement pipe and drill string.

Abstract: A pipe assembly comprises a flexible insulating material (16) in contact with the outer surface of the pipe (10) and a plurality of discrete spaced apart buoyant bodies (14) embedded in the flexible insulating material around the pipe. The flexible insulating material preferably forms a continuous layer in contact with the pipe and the buoyant bodies preferably comprise tubular bodies regularly spaced along the length of the pipe assembly. The provision of discrete buoyant bodies embedded within the insulating material allows relative movement between the bodies and enables the pipe to flexible without damaging the buoyant bodies.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a device (1) for heat-insulating at least one sub-marine pipe (4) comprising:

Abstract: A method for providing access to a buried pipe includes excavating the ground to expose the pipe. An access assembly comprising a curved plate and an upstanding access pipe is pressed onto the buried pipe with the curved plate embracing the buried pipe and the access pipe extending upwardly.

Abstract: The present invention provides a support sleeve for supporting an internal pipeline apparatus in a pipeline. The sleeve is provided with a number of deformable splines around its circumference which keep the pipeline apparatus centralized in the pipeline during operation. The leading edges of the splines have chamfers so that, when the sleeve encounters a reduction in the diameter of the pipeline, the splines deform in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the sleeve. It this way, less force is required to move the apparatus and sleeve through a portion of pipeline of reduced diameter than is the case with conventional disc supports.

Abstract: A method of slitting a flexible conduit in an underground bore, the conduit having entry and exit ends thereof exposed for access, includes: (1) fitting a retainer to flexible underground conduit adjacent to the entry end thereof, the retainer securing the flexible conduit to limit longitudinal movement thereof relative to the bore, (2) passing pulling means through the flexible conduit; (3) connecting the pulling means to a pipe slitter, and (4) pulling the pipe slitter through the retainer and flexible conduit to slit the conduit, the retainer holding the flexible conduit taut as the slitter passes through the conduit. In one embodiment, the retainer is a shoring clamp assembly including a pair of ring clamps that are secured onto a split end of the flexible conduit and transfer the longitudinal forces applied to the conduit during the slitting operation to an adjacent structure such as a pit wall, thereby holding the conduit taut during the slitting operation.

Abstract: An existing straight pipe 1 is cut off at two locations by rotating two seal-up housings 2 each mounted with a cutter 3, to form two cutoff groove 12C. A straight pipe portion 1p between the two cutoff grooves 12C remains left without retrieval, to impart a flexibility and contraction and expansion properties to a pipeline.

Abstract: An apparatus for the repair or maintenance of a vehicle is provided which facilitates the removal of a wheel, wheel rim, brake rotor, brake drum or the like, when these become seized or fused onto the wheel hub of the vehicle. The wheel pulling apparatus provides a pull plate to pull on, for example, a brake drum, and a push plate which acts to directly or indirectly push on the wheel studs of the vehicle. A simple, easy to use wheel pulling apparatus is provided.

Abstract: A method of abandoning a pipeline (2) being laid by a vessel having an A/R system, wherein a sealine (2, 11, 13) is initially held by a pipe laying and tensioning arrangement. The method includes a step of reducing tension at sea level of the sealine (2, 11, 13), by connecting one or more buoyant members (13) to the end of the pipeline (2). The members (13) are then lowered into the sea, using a line (16). At least one member (13) is connected to the pipeline (2) through a connection (12) which allows pivoting of the member (13) so that the end of the member (13) at the end of the pipeline (2) projects upwardly from the seabed (3).

Abstract: For laying synthetic underground piping (1) a ground channel (2) is first bored and the piping (1) is introduced into the ground channel (2). To facilitate laying an underground pipe length particularly effectively, the pipe length (1) comprising a hardening synthetic mass is manufactured at the same time as it is introduced into the ground channel (2) by the prepared synthetic mass being formed continuously inside the ground channel (2) as a run of piping (3) and left to harden.

Abstract: A modular guidance device for routing cable through an underground chamber includes a plurality of rollers positioned in adjacent relation. End plates hold the rollers in position. A support leg is connected to the end plates and a support member is secured to the support leg and is movable in different positions within the underground chamber. The support leg is further connected to articulation means for allowing the modular guidance device to be oriented according to the position of the support member during routing of the cable between inlet and outlet orifices of the underground chamber. The articulation means further includes two plates placed at right angles to a main axis of the support leg, the plates and respective support leg portions thereof facing each other and capable of rotating relative to each other and then fixed in position.

Abstract: A method of introducing a fiber optic conduit into a pressurized gas pipeline includes the step of introducing a translating member into the pressurized gas pipeline via an entry port in a first drilling nipple attached to the pressurized gas pipeline. Tools are deployed within a first pressure lock housing attached to the first drilling nipple by using a first manipulator located in the first air lock housing. The duct rod is advanced within pressurized gas pipeline by a driving mechanism, until a second drilling nipple is reached. The translating member is attached to a fiber optic conduit. The duct rod and fiber optic conduit are then pulled back or pulled forward through the pressurized gas pipeline by the driving mechanism.

Abstract: A tool for replacing existing plastic water service pipes that are buried underground. The proposed tool is pulled through an existing pipe by a stranded steel cable. The internal wall of the pipe is scored by a single cutting blade incorporated into the tool. The pipe is split open along the scoring as a result of the outward pressure created by a rearward portion of the conically shaped tool which is larger in diameter than the inside of the existing pipe. A replacement pipe is attached to the end of the tool and simultaneously pulled into place. The short tapered shape of the tool allows it to be pulled through bends encountered in the existing plastic pipe.

Abstract: A tailer for transporting coiled pipe and assisting in the unwinding of the pipe for laying in a trench. A support cradle contacts the outer surface of the coil, thereby obviating the need for a reel. The cradle includes self-centering support rollers upon which the coil freely rotates during the pipe laying operation. Horizontal rollers are provided as a retainer for engaging the inner surface of the coil. The position of the retainer rollers is adjustable to accommodate a variety of coil diameters. To remove coil set from the pipe unwinding from the coil, a reforming assembly includes a straightener and rerounder. The pipe reforming assembly is mounted on rollers on the base of the trailer for translating back and forth to track the pipe during unwinding to maintain alignment. The rerounder and straightener are provided with a releasable gate and top portion respectively, to assist in the loading and unloading of the pipe in the reforming assembly.

Abstract: An apparatus for bursting and replacing gas, water, sewer or other underground utility pipes. In a preferred embodiment the apparatus is characterized by a specially-designed rod-pulling device which is situated typically in a manhole or excavation, at one end of the pipe to be replaced. A rod is extended from the rod-pulling device through the pipe and is attached to a stored energy head disposed in a tapered bursting head which initially engages the opposite end of the pipe. A pneumatic hammer is typically seated in the stored energy head and a replacement pipe is removably attached to the bursting head. In typical operation, the rod-pulling device pus the stored energy head against the bursting head and thus, the bursting head against the pipe as the pneumatic hammer repeatedly strikes the stored energy head against the bursting head.

Abstract: An apparatus for longitudinal splitting, in particular longitudinal slitting, of pipes laid underground and for the simultaneous trenchless pulling-in of a new pipeline comprises a carriage in the form of a frame, in which a cutting wheel for cutting open the pipe wall and a support roller, which serves as an abutment and is supported on the pipe wall, are arranged above one another. The carriage or frame has a base which engages in a form-fitting manner in a frame-like window of a pull and/or push linkage.

Abstract: An improved method and article of manufacture for introducing a locator wire into an interior portion of a pressurized, or non-pressurized, subterranean or otherwise concealed plastic pipeline. The present invention introduces a locator wire into a plastic pipeline while simultaneously minimizing the escape potential of a transported volume, such as, but not limited to, gas, water, sewerage or oil. A locator wire feeding unit initially feeds the locator wire through a locator wire alignment coupling and proceeds thereafter to project the locator wire through a valve assembly, a locator saddle, and ultimately into a plastic pipe.

Abstract: The invention contemplates a working implement, for use with an excavating type machine, which semi-automatically brings a pipe section to a specified grade, slope, and line for emplacement in a line of pipe sections to be laid on the specified grade slope and line. The implement is rigidly mounted to the excavation machine whereby the position of the implement can be maintained within narrow tolerances while the pipe section is linearly inserted into a previously laid pipe section, and can be retained at the specified grade, slope, and line while fill material is emplaced and consolidated about and under the pipe, with sufficient density that the pipe can be released without the pipe moving outside normal tolerances of the specified grade, slope and line.

Abstract: An apparatus for widening microtunnels and/or for the destruction and replacement of ground-laid pipework and for the laying of new pipework possesses a tool which displaces the earth and/or destroys and/or displaces pipework laid in the earth, having a housing which is provided with an axial linkage seating, for example a housing passage for a linkage and with a linear drive which moves the tool, for example, on the linkage automatically from a launch pit to an arrival pit and simultaneously lays a follow-up pipe or a follow-up cable in the earth.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for repairing a submerged pipeline. The method comprises installing a pair of hot tap tees on either side of the damaged section of pipeline, cutting a hole in the pipeline through each hot tap tee, inserting and securing plugging pigs into the pipeline, cutting and removing the damaged section of pipeline, and installing a new section of pipeline. The apparatus includes a plugging pig for use during repair of a damaged pipeline comprising a body shaft, a cup seal secured to the body shaft for engaging an interior wall of the pipeline, a cam attached to the exterior of the body shaft, a slip assembly for sliding on the cam and engaging a slip against the pipeline wall, and a control mechanism for engaging and releasing the slip from the wall.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for replacement of an existing non-frangible pipeline includes creating open access to opposite ends of an pipeline and threading a cable having a wedge mounted thereon through the pipeline so that the wedge is positioned proximate one of the ends of the pipeline. The wedge is pulled through the pipeline from the other end of the pipeline so that the wedge slits the pipeline to form a slit pipe in a borehole. The slit pipe is removed from the borehole and a rear end portion of the slit pipe is attached to a front end portion of the replacement pipe . As the slit pipe is pulled out of the borehole, the replacement pipe is drawn into the borehole. The boring apparatus has a braided cable and a boring head having an expander sleeve and a lengthwise bore of sufficient diameter so that the cable can pass therethrough.

Abstract: A drawing device 4 is mounted in a drawing shaft 3, and pipe replacement device A connected with new pipes is arranged on the side of starting shaft 2, wherein the drawing device 4 and the pipe replacement device A is connected through pull-rods 5 inserted into existing pipes with each other. The pipe replacement device A is comprised of a cutting part 11 including cutter bodies 14 (shanks 14a to 14i) arranged in the axial direction and at angular intervals in the circumferential direction, an expanding part 12 having expanding rollers 18a to 18f, and a connecting part 13. Each cutter body 14 has a plurality of cutting edges, wherein distances between the respective cutting edges and the center of the circle become larger in order from the forward side toward the backward side. While the pipe replacement device A is traveled in the inside of cast iron pipes, the inner wall of cast iron pipes is cut by the cutter bodies 14 to form grooves.

Abstract: A replacement pipe is installed within an existing service pipe (1) by first advancing a sealing means (6,8) along the existing pipe to a position adjacent its junction with a main pipe (2), then deploying the sealing means to seal against the inner surface of the existing pipe) in the example shown, by pumping sealant (10) into the space between the seal body (6) and the pipe (1), and subsequently advancing the replacement pipe along the existing pipe. The space between the two pipes is then filled with sealant and finally the sealing means is opened, in the example shown by withdrawing a guide rod (5) and its collar (7) on which the sealing means was advanced into position.

Abstract: The apparatus and technique of the invention constitutes a hydraulic jack system for pushing sections of new pipe which, in turn, pushes a sleeve-cone expander arrangement to break up the old pipe and define a straight path for the new pipe. Apparatus is employed to determine the skin friction and the penetration friction, and to dispense a lubricant to reduce such frictional forces.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of extracting a hollow member laid in the earth, e.g. a lead pipe, which is accessible at both its open ends. For this purpose a hose which may be internally pressurized, is introduced in an unpressurized condition into the pipe, the hose is then internally pressurized, pressing the hose against the internal wall of the pipe, and then, maintaining the internal pressure, the pipe is extracted from the earth in its longitudinal direction by means of the hose without axial movement between these two. In this way rupture of the lead pipe during extraction is avoided. Behind the rear end of the lead pipe in the direction of extraction, a new pipe can be coupled to the hose or to the lead pipe to be extracted, and which is introduced into the earth simultaneously with extraction of the lead pipe.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for arranging at least one duct in a ground. The method is distinguished by above ground assembly of the duct; bringing the ground into plastic state; and forcing the duct into the ground. The ground is subjected to vibration in order to effect the transition to the plastic state thereof. The method is also distinguished by placing piles and fixing the duct to the piles prior to bringing the ground into the plastic state; and by subsequently forcing the piles with the duct fixed thereto into the ground. The present invention further relates to a system of ducts in a ground which comprises at least one type of duct, wherein piles fixed to the ducts are arranged in the ground.

Abstract: A method for reducing leakage of effluent water from a storm sewer system, the method comprising securing a flexible, water-impermeable sleeve to the inlet end of a storm sewer line, extending the sleeve through the interior of storm sewer line, and severing the sleeve at the discharge end of the storm sewer line, wherein the sleeve forms a liner for the storm sewer line.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for introducing a cable into a channel, which is formed into a heated surface of solid ground, such as asphalt, displaces the material to form a channel, inserts the cable and then reintroduces the displaced material back into the channel to refill the channel.

Abstract: The apparatus and technique of the invention constitutes a hydraulic jack system for pushing sections of new pipe which, in turn, pushes a sleeve-cone expander arrangement to break up the old pipe and define a straight path for the new pipe. Apparatus is employed to determine the skin friction and the penetration friction, and to dispense a lubricant to reduce such frictional forces.

Abstract: A rehabilitation system has been developed for cleaning, testing and slip lining pipe particularly sewer lines while in service. The system includes the use of equipment adapted for use on mobile vehicles to increase efficiency and mobility of the system. The cleaning system utilizes a specialized cleaning bucket that can be pulled from excavations and existing manholes. The testing and lining systems also utilize specialized test mandrels and pulling mandrels for the pipe liner that can be used with equipment operating, in part, from existing manholes.

Abstract: A system for and process of relining transport lines such as sewerage pipelines having an inner tubular thermoplastic inliner, a tubular thermoplastic preliner disposed within the pipeline to be restored. The inner inliner being disposed concentrically and internally of the preliner and having on its exterior means to fix a defined annular space between the inner inliner and the preliner and for anchoring the inner inliner positively in a hardenable composition to be introduced in the annular space between the inner inliner and the preliner.

Abstract: A rehabilitation system has been developed for cleaning, testing and slip lining pipe particularly sewer lines while in service. The system includes the use of equipment adapted for use on mobile vehicles to increase efficiency and mobility of the system. The cleaning system utilizes a specialized cleaning bucket that can be pulled from excavations and existing manholes. The testing and lining systems also utilize specialized test mandrels and pulling mandrels for the pipe liner that can be used with equipment operating, in part, from existing manholes.

Abstract: A device for reducing deformation of a pipe or tunnel has a body portion having a surface for moving along and entirely inside an undeformed pipe. The surface tapers inwardly from a main body portion having a maximum transverse extent to a fore end. Attached to the fore end of the device is a towing eye for attachment to a towing cable so that the device may be moved through a pipe. Movement of the device through the pipe urges the deformed portion towards an undeformed configuration. In an embodiment of the device it draws a lining through the pipe so that simultaneous re-rounding of a pipe and lining is performed. In yet another embodiment a pre-liner is simultaneously deployed with the lining, the pre-liner being disposed in use between the pipe and the lining.