History of Trenchless Technology

Integrity Environmental Services specializes in trenchless services with a focus on pipe bursting in Philadelphia, PA and the nearby areas. Trenchless solutions offer several advantages over more traditional approaches. In this blog, we’d like to share how this revolutionary innovation came to be.

Eric Wood First Began the Practice Over 40 Years Ago

The earliest form of trenchless pipe repair is credited to Eric Wood, an Englishman, who needed to repair the air ducts above a mushroom bed. As an agricultural engineer, he had access to plenty of material. So he came up with the cured-in-place-pipe or CIPP, which allowed him to fix several hundred feet of pipes without the need to disrupt the existing pipework. 

While Wood’s trenchless method was originally utilized for above-ground pipes, the technology was sound enough that it can be applied to underground pipes until it developed into what is called the pipe bursting approach.

Further Development

Trenchless pipe bursting caught on not long after the development of CIPP pipe lining. In the US, an engineering firm had to figure out a cost-effective method of replacing networks of pipes. They developed a technique where they broke the old pipes apart by slamming the ground with hammers. Then, they would snake out all the old pieces. They could put a new pipe into the same spot afterward.

Microtunneling Came Not Long After

Soon after, every pipe bursting company was on the search for the next big thing. Japanese engineers discovered an interesting method that used some of the latest technological advances. These use remote technology to drill precision burrows for new pipe networks. Despite the precision, its cost tends to reserve it for only the most important projects.

Horizontal Directional Drilling

Pipe bursting services continue to evolve. Today, it’s possible to lay an entire network of new pipes without ever having to disturb the topsoil.

Would You Like Help With Your Trenchless Pipe Project

Integrity Environmental Services is proud to utilize pipe bursting technology to provide quality services. Contact us to learn more about the trenchless services that we offer.