Improved Design and Constructability through Five Installation Methods for One HDPE Pipeline Project

摘要

Most utilities are faced with replacing aging infrastructure while experiencing an ever reducing repair and replacement budget. Determining cost effective ways to repair and replace infrastructure in a cost effective manner led the South Seminole & North Orange County Wastewater Transmission Authority (SSNOCWTA) to explore multiple pipe installation methods on one project in order to reduce construction costs and disruptions to customers and businesses. SSNOCWTA replaced 8,200-feet (2,500-meters) of existing class 200 PVC pipe due to age and the high probability of failure. Pipe bursting was the first method reviewed to replace the existing force main. During right-of-way permitting coordination it was determined pipe bursting was not permitted in certain locations by the agency controlling the right-of-way. Therefore, supplementary pipe installation methods were required. Following the design process, a total of five (5) HDPE pipe installation methods were chosen. This paper will discuss the applicability and benefits of the five (5) HDPE pipe/fitting installation methods. By utilizing different installation methods, engineers can provide value to their utilities by producing a more constructible project that minimizes disruptions to customers, businesses and the environment. The additive value of all the advantages incorporated into the project saved SSNOCWTA over $215,000 and two months of construction time.