Dual-End Pipe Pulling to Prevent Tearing During Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for removing old pipes from the ground, such as pipe bursting, often result in tearing or buckling, especially when high extraction forces are required to overcome soil friction, leaving parts of the pipe behind and necessitating excavation.
Innovation Solution
A pipe pulling system that applies extraction force to both the proximal and distal ends of the pipe using a dual cable configuration, with adjustable force differentials and attachment mechanisms like wire mesh grippers, to prevent tearing or buckling and facilitate complete removal without damaging the pipe.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If high extraction forces are applied to remove the pipe from the ground, then the pipe can be extracted from the ground, but the pipe may tear or buckle
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe is divided into two segments for force application: the proximal end and the distal end. By attaching cables to both ends and applying extraction forces simultaneously, the load is distributed across the entire pipe length, preventing localized stress concentrations that would cause tearing or buckling.
Solution Approach 2:
Different force application methods are used at different locations along the pipe. Wire mesh grippers are applied to the outer surface at both ends to provide secure attachment without damaging the pipe material, while the extraction force is distributed through the cable system to maintain uniform stress distribution.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the pipe is extracted completely from the ground, then environmental hazards are minimized, but excavation may be required if the pipe tears or buckles
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe is prepared for extraction in advance by attaching cable connection devices (wire mesh grippers) to both ends before the extraction process begins. This preliminary preparation ensures that the pipe is properly secured and ready for simultaneous dual-end extraction, preventing mid-extraction failures that would require excavation.
Solution Approach 2:
The extraction process incorporates monitoring and adjustment capabilities to detect any signs of pipe stress or deformation in real-time. If abnormal conditions are detected, the extraction forces can be adjusted immediately to prevent tearing or buckling, ensuring complete removal without requiring subsequent excavation.
3Reliability
If simultaneous dual-end extraction is applied, then the pipe can be extracted completely without tearing or buckling, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable connection device serves multiple functions: it attaches to the pipe end, distributes the extraction force evenly across the pipe cross-section, and provides a secure connection point for the extraction cable. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall system despite the dual-end extraction requirement.
Solution Approach 2:
Wire mesh grippers act as intermediary elements between the extraction cables and the pipe. These grippers distribute the point loads from the cables across a larger surface area of the pipe, preventing localized stress concentrations while maintaining a relatively simple cable system architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe puller system and methods of pipe extraction are shown. In one example a pipe to be replaced is pulled by attaching a pulling force to multiple locations along a length of the pipe. In one example pulling forces can be varied between different attachment locations to better control or eliminate tearing of the pipe. In one example, a pipe loosening device may be used prior to pulling the pipe from the ground.