System and method for straightening underground pipes

US10520111B2 · kind B2 · utility

Inventor

• Mike Taylor · Ashton, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 4, 2018
• Grant date: Dec 31, 2019
• Expiry date: Jun 4, 2038

Classification

• Technology area (CPC F): Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
• CPC primary: F16L55/18
• WIPO field: Mechanical elements
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A system for straightening downwardly-bowed underground pipeline using a means of pumping expandable fluid into substratum below the pipeline bow. The system includes an apparatus for identifying the bowed section of underground pipeline, and a device for delivering expandable liquid to the target site beneath the pipeline bow. The apparatus includes a frame supporting a series of probe-rods driven into contact with the top of the pipeline, to locate the bowed section. The device for straightening downwardly-bowed underground pipeline uses a means of pumping expandable fluid into substratum below the pipeline bow; the device comprises an elongated shaft having a trailing end and a leading end and defining a fluid pathway from the upstream trailing end to the downstream leading end. The trailing end is adapted to secure fluid communication between the fluid pathway and the means of pumping expandable fluid, and the fluid pathway terminates in at least one downstream fluid pathway exit; the leading end also including a means of shielding said pathway exit and diverting the fluid from continued downstream travel.