No-Dig and Low-Dig Service Connections Following Water Main Rehabilitation

The objective of this study was to develop, analyze, and test various concepts for reconnecting service laterals after pipeline rehabilitation with little or no excavation. By discussing and demonstrating various concepts, it was hoped that the technical challenges would be better understood, and practical new tools and techniques would ultimately emerge to significantly reduce the cost of rehabilitating water mains. The study focused on pipelines and conditions common to water distribution systems. The use of keyhole tools for reconnecting services following pipebursting work was field tested on a water main in Los Angeles. A DVD containing video of these tests is included. These techniques can be applied immediately. The DVD also includes a video file showing a reconnection technique using a pipeline robot. Results from bench testing several other key concepts are provided.