Abstract: This disclosure relates to an indicator cap for a pipe penetration. In one aspect, the indicator cap comprises a cap body, wherein the cap body comprises an engagement portion for engaging the indicator cap with the pipe, and a capping portion connected to the engagement portion for covering an open end of the pipe, and wherein a surface of the capping portion supports a means for aiding location of the indicator cap and thus the pipe, wherein the means for aiding location is adapted so as to not impede screeding thereover, and to indicate the position of the cap and thus the pipe post screeding.

Abstract: According to some embodiments, a fireproofing system for protecting an elongate member, comprising at least one inner layer configured to at least partially wrap around itself to form an inner passage, the at least one inner layer configured to generally resist heat, and an outer shell or member defining an interior opening, wherein the first layer is configured to be positioned within the interior opening of the outer shell or outer member, wherein an elongate member is configured to pass through the inner passage.

Abstract: An apparatus for installing multiple strands of hose below a surface of terrain is provided. The apparatus comprises a chassis and rotating trenching blade assemblies connected to the chassis. The trenching blade assemblies are configured to dig parallel trenches when the apparatus is pulled along the terrain. Curved hose guides are connected to the chassis in trailing positions behind the trenching blades. Each hose guide receives hose from a hose reel on reel mounts connected to the chassis and deposits the hose into a trench dug by a trenching blade assembly. Trench fillers connected to the chassis trail the hose guides. Each trench filler is aligned with a respective hose guide and comprises a number of blades configured to push soil excavated from a trench back into the trench when the apparatus is pulled along the terrain.

Abstract: A method for fatigue-monitoring of a submarine cable during off-shore jointing or reparation includes: a) determining a plurality of curvature values concerning a curvature of the submarine cable at different points in time during the off-shore jointing or reparation, b) determining a plurality of strain ranges of the submarine cable based on the plurality of curvature values, and c) determining a fatigue damage of the submarine cable based on the plurality of strain ranges.

Abstract: The invention relates to the use of a multi-component composition comprising A) a polyol component (A) comprising at least one polyol and water, B) a hardener component (B) comprising at least one polyisocyanate, and C) a solid component (C) comprising a hydraulic binder and one or more aggregates, as an early water resistant construction or repair material for constructing, repairing or refurbishing component parts, wherein the mixed and applied multi-component composition is immersed in water not later than 8 hours, preferably not later than 2 h, after application. The use as an early water resistant construction or repair material is especially suitable for component parts, which are in contact with water during operation such as offshore wind energy plants or water retaining systems, e.g. pipelines.

Abstract: A construction method of a rectangular working well includes steps of: (I) designing functional requirements for the rectangular working well; (II) constructing a caisson of an enclosing structure of the rectangular working well; (III) constructing an edge protector; (IV) excavating earthwork of the rectangular working well; (V) forming a bottom cover for the rectangular working well, and pre-embedding a sliding track, a pull ring and a back wall anchor; (VI) installing a ladder for entering the rectangular working well; (VII) preventing joint leakage; (VIII) installing a water-proof pressure plate at an entrance of the preset pipe jacking hole; (IX) constructing the sliding back wall; (X) lifting the sandwich concrete slab wall at a top of the preset pipe jacking hole; and (XI) performing pipe jacking. The structure system constructed by the present invention has many advantages such as clear function, safety, quickness, and flexible design.

Abstract: Systems for containing a fluid leaked from a pipeline include a flexible, impermeable liner comprising a coated substrate and disposed to extend along a trench for enveloping the pipeline deployed therein; and separating means disposed between the pipeline and the liner for containing the fluid therein; wherein the liner prevents migration of the fluid into the trench by flowing the fluid laterally within the liner. Methods for deploying the above systems are provided.

Abstract: A protective cover for a subsea elongate element, such as a pipeline, has an open end and a barrier attached to a cover to extend across and close an open end. The barrier is flexible to conform to and surround an elongate element extending from under the cover and protruding through the barrier. This prevents rocks of a rock berm from getting under the cover through the open end.

Abstract: A trenching assembly used to cut a narrow trench in the ground surface. The trenching assembly comprises an attachment frame connected to a hood assembly via a linkage assembly. The attachment frame may be attached to the rear end of a work machine. A rotatable blade is disposed within a cavity defined by the hood assembly. The hood assembly may rotate about two different axes relative to the linkage assembly, and the linkage assembly may rotate about two different axes relative to the attachment frame. The trenching assembly uses a pair of accumulators to hydraulically rotate the linkage assembly about a horizontal axis relative to the frame in response changes in depth of the ground surface being cut by the blade. The linkage assembly may be hydraulically rotated using the accumulators without input from the operator.

Abstract: A self-deploying and self-healing subsea network comprises one or more homing vehicles, one or more data repeaters, and one or more independent guidable homing systems configured to assist the homing vehicles in localization of and docking with the data repeaters. A plurality of data repeaters are deployed in a body of water and, at a predetermined time, a homing vehicle released from a first data repeater and instructed to transit to and dock with a predetermined second data repeater. After docking, a network cable is operatively placed into communication between the first data repeater and the second data repeater.

Abstract: A subsurface retention barrier system installed in situ to retain water in a projected root zone of one or more plants is disclosed. An apparatus and system for installing the subsurface retention barriers and methods related thereto are also disclosed.

Abstract: A technician performs a locate operation of an underground utility in a dig area of proposed excavation by applying one or more physical colored markers (e.g., paint, flags, other colored markers) to ground, pavement or other surface to indicate a presence or an absence of the underground utility in the dig area. A digital image of a geographic area comprising the dig area is displayed on a display device, and one or more electronic colored markers corresponding to the physical colored marker(s) are added to the displayed digital image so as to generate a marked-up image. Information relating to the marked-up image is electronically transmitted and/or electronically stored so as to document the locate operation.

Abstract: A cable pull-in system and method for offshore structures (1) of the type having a hollow interior extending from the sea bed to above the surface of the water and an entry hole (2) in the external wall of the structure. The system includes an elongated outer conduit assembly (7) within the interior of which is arranged an elongated cable member (10), the elongated outer conduit assembly being equipped with an inflatable sealing section (4) adapted for engaging the interior of entry hole (2) to seal and affix the outer conduit assembly. The elongated outer conduit assembly is pulled through the entry hole and up to a hangoff point above the water surface such that the inflatable sealing section (4) engages entry hole (2).

Abstract: A technician performs a locate operation of an underground utility in a dig area of proposed excavation by applying one or more physical colored markers (e.g., paint, flags, other colored markers) to ground, pavement or other surface to indicate a presence or an absence of the underground utility in the dig area. A digital image of a geographic area comprising the dig area is displayed on a display device, and one or more electronic colored markers corresponding to the physical colored marker(s) are added to the displayed digital image so as to generate a marked-up image. Information relating to the marked-up image is electronically transmitted and/or electronically stored so as to document the locate operation.

Abstract: Novel tools and techniques for installing lines or cables, including, without limitation, power lines, low voltage lines, telecommunications lines or cables (e.g., telephone cables, network cables, television cables, etc.), and/or the like, and, in particular, installing optical fiber and/or other lines, slightly below ground level in a roadway or other ground surface. In some cases, a method might include creating a channel in the ground surface, placing one or more lines (e.g., power lines, low voltage lines, telecommunications lines, and/or the like) in the channel, and placing a capping material in the channel, thereby encapsulating the lines. In some cases, placing the one or more lines in the channel might include placing a conduit (containing the one or more lines) in the channel, and encapsulating the one or more lines might include encapsulating the conduit. The capping material might include polyurea, thermosetting material, and/or any other suitable material.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for installing a pipeline made up of a plurality of pipe lengths or sections to extend along a predetermined underground grade in a trench. Pillow blocks are secured to the underside of the pipe lengths at predetermined intervals and the pipe lengths are respectively lifted with the pillow blocks suspended thereunder and sequentially placed in the trench with the blocks positioned thereunder on the grade surface in the trench. The pipe sections are then secured together to form a pipeline and the trench is backfilled. The pillow blocks may be adhered to the underside of the pipe sections or the pillow blocks may be loosely secured to the underside of the pipe lengths whereby the blocks will maintain a position by force of gravity under the respective pipe sections to which they are attached when the respective pipe sections are suspended in the air above ground.

Abstract: An underground service protection system made from two main sections, a first frame having a bottom panel with hinged side and end panels and a second frame having side and end panels. The end panels retain inserted slides having half apertures. The half apertures surround a pipe or other structure being protected while the first frame and second frame form a protective cage. A standpipe and a back-fill gauge extend upward from the protection system. The hinged ends and sides enable the first frame to be installed with reduced material removable. The first frame and the second frame are aligned and held together using stakes on the first frame and pockets on the second frame. Tie wraps are used to hold the sides and the stakes and pockets together.

Abstract: A device for controlling buoyancy of a buried pipeline, the device comprising a form placed atop the pipeline and a flexible strap extending around the form adjacent its top. The form may comprise a first trough located adjacent the first side of the pipeline, a second trough located adjacent the opposing second side of the pipeline, and a middle section with an inverted-U-shaped cross section such that the middle portion fits over the top of the pipeline and joins the first trough and the second trough. The troughs are filled with backfill when the pipeline is buried. Thus, when fully installed, the device may comprise the slot form, the strap, and the backfill. As the pipeline tends to rise, the straps deform, bringing the sides of the troughs inward and compressing the backfill therein. This prevents further upward movement of the pipeline.

Abstract: A device for controlling buoyancy of a buried pipeline, the device comprising a form placed atop the pipeline and a flexible strap extending around the form adjacent its top. The form may comprise a first trough located adjacent the first side of the pipeline, a second trough located adjacent the opposing second side of the pipeline, and a middle section with an inverted-U-shaped cross section such that the middle portion fits over the top of the pipeline and joins the first trough and the second trough. The troughs are filled with backfill when the pipeline is buried. Thus, when fully installed, the device may comprise the slot form, the strap, and the backfill. As the pipeline tends to rise, the straps deform, bringing the sides of the troughs inward and compressing the backfill therein. This prevents further upward movement of the pipeline.

Abstract: A device and a system for an oil field road crossing and a method of installing thereof. A plurality of conduits having a rectangular cross-section with a coupling header on each end are set in the ground at the road crossing, the conduit top surfaces substantially level with the ground. The long sides of adjacent conduits are welded together in parallel. The coupling headers are in fluid communication with the rectangular conduit, each header have an open end operative to connect to the end of a cylindrical pipeline. When cylindrical pipelines are connected to the headers, one at each end of the rectangular conduit, the pipelines are in fluid communication with each other. The flat surfaces of the rectangular conduits form a road crossing substantially level with the ground for a vehicle to safely travel over without disrupting flow through the pipelines absent burying the pipelines.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for introducing at least one pipe for at least one optical cable into a solid bed with the aid of a laying device. At least one groove is milled or cut in the bed and the at least one pipe is inserted in the groove. At least one side wall of the groove is configured with a step for supporting a filler material. After laying the pipe the remaining volume of the groove is filled. Alternatively, the pipe can be formed according to the groove. In addition, the friction between the at least one pipe laid in the groove and the side walls of the groove can be increased so that emergence of the at least one pipe of its own accord from the at least one groove is prevented.

Abstract: A device for protecting a subsea structure from damage due to impact from falling objects. The device includes a lower shell that can be positioned over the subsea structure on the sea bed. The lower shell has a non-articulating cross sectional shape that provides a conduit between the lower shell and the sea bed. An upper shell is fixed to an outer surface of the lower shell and has a cross sectional shape that provides a conduit between the outer surface of the lower shell and the upper shell. The upper shell is sized and configured to be disposed on the lower shell. The lower shell can include footings to providing bearing support on the sea bed or may be positioned on separate footings or foundation on the sea bed. Methods of making the device and using the device to protect subsea structures are also disclosed.

Abstract: A fluid jacket concrete pipe system includes a concrete pipe enveloped by a fluid-filled jacket. The fluid-filled jacket includes an inner jacket wall, an outer jacket wall, and a first and second side wall interconnecting the inner jacket wall to the outer jacket wall. A fluid inlet is disposed on the outer jacket wall. The outer jacket wall has a thickness dependent on a diameter of the concrete pipe and an external loading of the fluid jacket concrete pipe system.

Abstract: Devices and methods for trenchlessly replacing an existing utility pipe with a replacement pipe and a tracer wire are described in this application. A replacement pipe may be joined to the head adaptor of a trenchless splitter tool with a tracer wire being trapped between them, resulting the tracer wire extending from within the replacement pipe through a joint to the exterior of the replacement pipe. A protective cap (or deflector) may be placed of the portion of tracer wire extending from the joint. The splitter tool may then be introduced into and travelled along the existing pipe, splitting and displacing the existing pipe, and placing replacement pipe and tracer wire along the path of the existing pipe, thereby functionally replacing the existing pipe with a replacement pipe and a tracer wire. Other embodiments are described.

Abstract: A borehole pipe protection apparatus includes a sheet of material having an inner surface and an outer surface and a longitudinal direction and a width direction defined by two edges of the sheet along the longitudinal direction. A fastening structure is configured to join the two edges to form a seam as the sheet of material is wrapped in the width direction around a pipe that is configured to be installed into the borehole to form a sock along the longitudinal direction. The sock is configured to be installed in the borehole with the pipe about which it is wrapped, yet to remain for a service life in non-bonding contact with the pipe. A method for protecting pipe during and after insertion into a borehole is also described.

Abstract: A subsurface thermal insulation product for reducing ground disturbance during a freeze-thaw cycle comprises: a plurality of thermal insulation panels each comprising: a foam board and a water wicking sheet attached to one of the top surface or the bottom surface of the foam board. Each foam board has a top surface and a bottom surface and four peripheral shiplap edges each with a notch that permits multiple thermal insulation panels to be placed in adjacent overlapping engagement.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a machine arranged for sawing micro trenches and placing ducts/communication cables in micro trenches, said machine comprising a saw blade arranged for sawing a micro trench in an area; said machine further comprises a stabilizing device arranged for stabilizing the walls of said micro trench when placing ducts/communication cables into said micro trench, said stabilizing device being positioned immediately behind said saw blade in said micro trench, and said stabilizing device comprising guiding means for guiding at least one duct/communication cable when placed into said micro trench.

Abstract: A foam dispensing apparatus for dispersing foamed material into an excavation containing pipelines and a novel power head for dispersion of foam.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for introducing at least one pipe (2) for at least one optical cable (3) into a solid bed with the aid of a laying device, wherein at least one groove (1) is milled or cut in the bed and the at least one pipe (2) is inserted in the at least one groove (1), wherein at least one side wall (1?) of the at least one groove (1) is configured with a step (1?) for supporting a filler material (5, 6), by which after laying the at least one pipe (2) the possibly remaining volume of each groove (1) is filled, or a pipe (2) formed according to the groove (1). Preferably both side walls (1?) of the at least one groove (1) are configured with a supporting step (1??), resulting in a substantially T-shaped cross-section of the groove (1).

Abstract: The present invention relates to a laying machine for laying at least one flexible casing or tube, cable or wire including: a blade arrangement (2) for making a trench (5) in the ground, a consolidation and laying means (3) being arranged behind the blade arrangement (2), for clearing and safeguarding the trench (5) from collapsing while laying at least one flexible casing or tube, cable or wire into the trench. A blade assembly comprising compartments for cooling fluid.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a support system for supporting a conduit. In one exemplary embodiment, the system includes support beams extending across an excavated opening. For example, a pair of beams may be positioned to span the excavated opening with the opposing ends of the beams supported on the ground above the excavated opening. Support rods may be positioned to extend through and/or from the beams and into the excavated opening. In one exemplary embodiment, the support rods include a J-hook configured for receipt within an opening in sections of curved sheet pile positioned beneath a conduit. By using a plurality of rods, the individual sections of curved sheet pile may be connected to the beams to provide a support structure for the curved sheet pile and, correspondingly, the conduit extending above the curved sheet pile and below the beam.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for covering and protecting buried pipes or cables, including a substantially planar plate (2) made of a single piece of synthetic material, the plate having a first surface (3) and a second surface (4) opposite the first surface, the plate (2) comprising complementary assembly means (5-8) at at least two of the edges thereof, which are arranged so as to enable the assembly of two adjacent plates, the complementary assembly means being designed to enable two adjacent plates to be hinged about an axis substantially perpendicular to the plane of the adjacent plates. The plate comprises a plurality of through-openings (9) leading onto the first and second surfaces (3, 4) of the plate, respectively.

Abstract: Systems and methods for protecting a subterranean structure. The method can include, but is not limited to, removing at least a portion of earth disposed above a subterranean structure to provide a foundation; depositing an isolation layer above the subterranean structure; and depositing at least a portion of the removed earth, a fill material or both to at least partially cover the isolation layer.

Abstract: A levee and barrier module for fluid control and containment is provided including an outer module shell and a module-to-module connection system to attach adjacent outer shells. The outer module shell is formed by opposing side walls and two opposing end walls and is configured to enclose or support filler material. The outer module shell defines a top aperture and a bottom aperture. The bottom aperture allows filler material communication with the earth below the module. The top aperture allows filler material to be added to the module, as well as visual observation of, and maintenance of, the amount of contained filler material. A presented application is directed to protecting pipelines and to allowing pipeline integration or association with levees.

Abstract: The machine allows the placing of small troughs in trenches, made up by a loading platform (1) with a rotating conveyor (4) or sliding (7) for the small troughs (CA) to a feeding train (2) directing them towards an aligning box (3). The feeding train has folding sections (21), (22) and (23), being the central section (22) the one that has the coupling and linking means (24) to the tractor (T) and also where the loading platform (1) is journalled, the first section (21) is the one receiving the small troughs from the rotating conveyor (4), the second section (22) receives them from the sliding conveyor (7) and the third section (23) deposits the small troughs (CA) in the aligning box (2), which aligns the small troughs (CA) on which the corresponding covers (P) are overlapped by a device based on a framework (8) and an inclined platform (9).

Abstract: Systems and apparatuses protect subsurface conduit. Specifically, the systems and apparatuses protect subsurface conduit by disposing one or more rigid caps over a length of the subsurface conduit under a roadway for decreasing and/or eliminating impacts and/or damage to the subsurface conduit caused by automobiles and other vehicles utilizing the roadway. Methods of making and using the same are further provided.

Abstract: In one exemplary embodiment, curved sheet pile is driven underneath an existing conduit using a pile driver guided hydraulically by an excavator or other heavy machinery. By vibrating the curved sheet piles, the soil is placed in suspension, which allows the piles to be directed through the soil along an arcuate path that has a curvature that substantially matches the radius of curvature of the piles. Once the pile is positioned as desired, each individual pile sheet can be welded to one another to form a unitary structure. In one exemplary embodiment, the curved sheet pile is inserted beneath a conduit using a vibratory pile driver that rotates about a fixed pivot element on an excavator or other heavy machine for positioning the pile driver to advance the curved sheet pile along a fixed arc.

Abstract: At a location where a submarine cable 20 is to be installed, the condition of a seabed 200 and the condition of tidal currents near the seabed 200 are investigated in advance to examine the number of filter units 50 and the position where the filter units 50 are to be installed. First, the submarine cable 20 is installed on the seabed 200. Then, the filter units 50 are installed so as to cover the submarine cable 20 installed on the seabed 200.

Abstract: In one exemplary embodiment, curved sheet pile is driven underneath an existing conduit using a pile driver guided hydraulically by an excavator or other heavy machinery. By vibrating the curved sheet piles, the soil is placed in suspension, which allows the piles to be directed through the soil along an arcuate path that has a curvature that substantially matches the radius of curvature of the piles. Once the pile is positioned as desired, each individual pile sheet can be welded to one another to form a unitary structure. In one exemplary embodiment, the curved sheet pile is inserted beneath a conduit using a vibratory pile driver that rotates about a fixed pivot element on an excavator or other heavy machine for positioning the pile driver to advance the curved sheet pile along a fixed arc.

Abstract: A vented gas riser for use in a system for conducting pressurized gas through a gas carrier pipe from a gas supply source line located below ground level to a delivery point disposed above ground is provided. A fluid tight gas riser protective casing is disposed around said carrier pipe and creates a gas escape passageway in an elongate annular space between the carrier pipe and the casing. Any gas which leaks from the gas carrier pipe is captured in the gas escape passageway. A riser transition head, which includes at least one vent passageway, provides a fluid connection with said gas escape passageway and with the atmosphere such that any gas which leaks in the vicinity of the gas escape passageway can escape through the at least one vent into the atmosphere.

Abstract: A construction method for installing underground pipes for high-tension cables uses a trough. The method includes the steps of forming an excavation trench by excavating the ground, installing the trough on the bottom of the excavation trench, pouring sand into the space section, placing the underground pipes on the sand, pouring again the sand onto the underground pipes, filling a gap formed between the trough and the excavation trench using sand and gravel, forming an upper protecting member on the trough, and performing surface treatment by using road pavement materials.

Abstract: A vented gas riser for use in a system for conducting pressurized gas through a gas carrier pipe from a gas supply source line located below ground level to a delivery point disposed above ground is provided. A fluid tight gas riser protective casing is disposed around said carrier pipe and creates a gas escape passageway in an elongate annular space between the carrier pipe and the casing. A containment chamber is disposed below ground level which creates a confined space which has, as its only egress, a fluid connection to a gas escape passageway. Any gas which leaks into the containment chamber is directed into the gas escape passageway. A riser transition head, which includes at least one vent passageway, provides a fluid connection with said gas escape passageway and with the atmosphere such that any gas which leaks into said containment chamber is directed through the gas escape passageway and through the at least one vent and into the atmosphere.

Abstract: Systems and methods for protecting a subterranean structure are provided. The method can include, but is not limited to, removing at least a portion of earth disposed above a subterranean structure to provide a foundation; depositing an isolation layer above the subterranean structure; and depositing at least a portion of the removed earth, a fill material or both to at least partially cover the isolation layer.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a support system for supporting a conduit. In one exemplary embodiment, the system includes support beams extending across an excavated opening. For example, a pair of beams may be positioned to span the excavated opening with the opposing ends of the beams supported on the ground above the excavated opening. Support rods may be positioned to extend through and/or from the beams and into the excavated opening. In one exemplary embodiment, the support rods include a J-hook configured for receipt within an opening in sections of curved sheet pile positioned beneath a conduit. By using a plurality of rods, the individual sections of curved sheet pile may be connected to the beams to provide a support structure for the curved sheet pile and, correspondingly, the conduit extending above the curved sheet pile and below the beam.

Abstract: The invention includes a method of making and using a flowable thermal backfill. The flowable thermal backfill has a low thermal resistivity, useful for filling trenches containing electrical cables and other lines that generate heat. The method includes process steps of blending ingredients of stone, sand and fly ash, making a flowable thermal fill by mixing the blended stone, sand and fly ash with Portland cement and water, and pouring the flowable thermal fill in an excavation containing heat generating lines, immediately after mixing the flowable thermal backfill.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for locating an underground object. The apparatus comprises an excavation head, a wave emitter, a receiver, and a processor. The excavation head is adapted for soft excavation of soil. The excavation head may use mechanical means to dislodge soil, pressurized air or water, or a combination of methods. The wave emitter, located proximate the excavation head, transmits waves into the soil. The receiver receives waves reflected by underground objects. Information about the reflected waves is processed by the processor to determine the location of the underground object.

Abstract: A marking tape comprising at least one resonant circuit, each resonant circuit comprising an inductive coil and a capacitor, forming a resonant circuit of a selected frequency, comprises inductive coils and capacitors formed by conductive material layers (2, 3, 4) on the surfaces of a dielectric plastic film (1) and is dimensioned to be wireless detected when positioned in a hidden location. Such marking tape can be produced with low cost and provide a wireless detection of the integrity of a marking tape in a hidden position, e.g. from the surface above a subterranean positioned marking tape.

Abstract: What is disclosed is an improved system for gas piping under roadways using polyethylene pipe (2) as a casing pipe around an inner carrier pipe (1), along with a method for testing airtightness. A conduit (10) for the tracer wire (9) is included, along with an accompanying procedure for bypassing the flow of gas through the tracer wire conduit.

Abstract: The method for identifying lateral pipes includes printing identifying indicia on the interior surface of a liner assembly positioned adjacent the lateral pipe. The apparatus includes the liner assembly in place with the identifying indicia visible from the interior of the pipe line.

Abstract: A wastewater effluents orifice shield. The shield has a roof section with a wall section. The wall section is configured to straddle and attached to a wastewater or effluents dispersion line. The dispersion line is configured with a plurality of discharge port's. The discharge port's jettison the effluents. The orifice shield diverts the effluents jettisoned from the dispersion line into a soil bed.