Recently David Harris, Assistant Division Director of Public Works for the City of Brownwood, shared news of the progressive approach our city has taken to not only improve infrastructure and cut costs, but actually become leaders of the nation in an innovative pipe replacement method.
Several years ago, Brownwood was the first Municipal Utility in the State of Texas to install a new variety of 8” PVC pipe utilizing a trenchless method of replacement called “pipe bursting”. Pipe bursting is the method of replacing a failing sewer line by inserting a new one in the exiting space by expanding of and bursting the old pipe. The new pipe can even be larger than the original by several inches. Last week ( April 27th, 2010) the City of Brownwood Wastewater Collection Department crews installed the first 12” PVC of this type in the nation, according to manufacturer reps. This is a new size for this type of pipe that is designed to be installed with the static pipe bursting equipment. It was manufactured to be used in larger diameter lines than are typically in neighborhood collection lines.
The pipe is called CertaFlo GreenLine and is SDR 26 PVC pipe. The pipe is pressure rated allowing utilities to meet new state design criteria for separation distances from water lines and to protect the environment for future generations. The pipe is classified as “Restrained Joint” pipe which means that each joint or bell is mechanically restrained to keep it from pushing or pulling apart.
Brownwood acquired the equipment in September of 2007 on a rental agreement and city council voted to purchase the equipment in the following budget. City of Brownwood staff and Council leadership have always wanted to be leaders in the industry but in many cases, the cost does not allow. With this technology, Brownwood can be on the cutting edge of technology and actually save money. Sewer main replacement using the pipe bursting technology is about 1/2 the cost of traditional open cut methodology. The new way also saves grass, trees, streets and driveways just for starters. This makes the interference with the lifestyle of the public much less impacted. Safety of city employees is greatly enhanced which is a major factor to its continued use.
To date, the City of Brownwood crews have replaced about 14,200 feet of failing sewer mains with this process. Harris stated in a press release, “Without the willingness, competency and, dedication of the staff and support of management and city council, we would not be in the leadership position we are now.”
