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As the nation's underground infrastructure ages, pipe bursting has gained momentum as an alternative to more traditional rehabilitation methods. It can be faster, more efficient, cheaper and less disruptive than open cutting. Unlike pipe lining, it offers more than a simple cosmetic fix, providing the opportunity to upsize utilities to provide additional capacity. It can eliminate some of the engineering and permitting needed to get a relocation project off the ground. And, since new pipes are installed where the old pipes existed, the risk of hitting or damaging existing utilities is minimized.

While pipe bursting has been used in the U.S. since the early 1980s, it's only been within about the last decade that it has taken hold and become more popular. As the technology continues to evolve, so do the size and complexity of projects.

"Initially, it was pretty much confined to replacing low-pressure, cast iron gas mains with HDPE pipe," says David Holcomb, vice president/regional manager, TT Technologies. "But now we're seeing it being used to replace potable water and sanitary sewer lines, as well, and in diameters that range from 3/4 to 54 in. (O.D.)."

To determine if pipe bursting is a viable option for a particular project, ask questions about the environmental/social impact, type of host and replacement pipes, soil conditions and depth/length of pipe. The answers will influence a particular job's success rate and will help determine whether or not it can even be done.

What is the impact?
Like horizontal directional drilling, pipe bursting has a minimal impact on the environment when compared to open-cut trenching. You only need to move dirt for entrance and exit pits, and any service connections.