To Burst or Not to Burst: Considerations for ACP Sewer Replacement

摘要

Pipe bursting is a proven and cost effective trenchless technology that can be used to increase thecapacity of existing pipelines; however, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)policies may limit its application when applied to existing asbestos cement pipe (ACP). The designfor the Randolph Township, New Jersey Sanitary Sewer project included pipe bursting 366 metersof 20.3 cm (8-inch) ACP. An Applicability Determination was received from EPA that pipebursting of ACP sewer is subject to Asbestos National Emission Standards for Hazardous AirPollutants (NESHAP) regulations. Given the EPA's position, a choice must be made to eitherproceed with pipe bursting of ACP sewers and comply with Asbestos NESHAP regulations orutilize other methods and design approaches to replace or increase the capacity of ACP sewers.The EPA's ruling regarding bursting of ACP has national impacts to wastewater and wateragencies, the public and pipe bursting industry.