What is Pipe Bursting?

The Pipe Bursting Process
The pneumatic bursting tool is inserted inside the new polyethylene pipe. A proper sized bursting head is then attached to the new PE pipe. A winch cable is then hooked to the tool that will help keep it on line as it progresses through the existing line. As the pneumatic tool moves forward the assembly is simultaneously winched. The action bursts the existing pipe and pushes the pieces of old pipe into the surrounding soil no further than the outside edge of the bursting head, as the new PE pipe is pulled into place. The pneumatic tool is protected inside the new pipe and the steel burst head is the leading edge used to fracture the old pipe. When the bursting head has reached its destination, the stake down unit and winch cable are removed, then the tool is placed into reverse. The reverse action of the tool helps to back it out of the new line all the way to the launch pit. The bursting head is cut off and removed. The installation of the new pipe is now complete and ready for connection.