What is Pipe Reaming?

Pipe Reaming is a modified HDD process that is a hybrid method between conventional pipe cracking and pipe bursting and the difference only comes in if we need to use a back hammer which is a rock drilling tool to break and displace the existing pipeline into the ground.

Where can Pipe Reaming be used?

Pipe Reaming can be used where the project calls for the existing pipeline to be replaced, especially with projects where the existing sewer pipeline needs to be replaced and the manholes cannot be repositioned. Pipe Reaming is our alternative to situations where the ground is not stable especially for deep excavations or where the water table is high and there is no solid anchoring point for our Pipe Cracking down unit. Pipe Reaming is also used where the existing pipeline to be replaced is larger that what we can rehabilitate with our Pipe Cracking rig.

Our Capabilities

We are able to replace existing pipeline materials that are AC, reinforced concrete and clay etc. We are able to upsize any undersized pipelines provided the ground surrounding the existing pipeline allows for the upsize. We can replace any pipeline with an ID larger than 90mm and up to and including a existing 900mm pipe, depending of the material of the existing pipeline and ground conditions surrounding the existing pipeline. We are also able to replace pipelines size for size or to upsize the existing pipeline for areas where the existing infrastructure needs to be upgraded or in areas where there is future upgrades planned.

A quick run-through of the Pipe Reaming Process.

The Pipe Reaming process follows the process of the HDD method, however no pilot bore is drilled, depending on the site we either open trench to lay our rods or we dill and come out at the level of the existing pipeline.

We then push the drill string to the launch pit where we connect our tooling, which will differ depending on the existing pipelines material. The new product pipeline is then attached to the drill string and the replacement of the existing pipeline is done in one step. The breaking force for this method is from the pull back and rotational force from the HDD rig. 

If there is a need for a pneumatic back hammer then a high-pressure compressor is used, however, unlike the pipe bursting method, the back hammer is powered through the HDD rig, thus eliminating the need for installing a pneumatic hose in the new product pipeline.

Pipe reaming is the preferred method when comparing pipe bursting and pipe reaming due to the significant time difference in duration from setup to installation.