Ram burster and method for installing tubular casing underground
US6109832A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 2, 1998 |
| Grant date | Aug 29, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 2, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B7/30
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method and an apparatus for new installation or bursting and replacement of underground pipelines, without the necessity of trenches. This method and apparatus allows for the installation without the need for large excavations at the end point of the line and allows for nondestructive termination at an existing vault, structure or manhole without having to rebuild the structure, vault or manhole. The apparatus includes a head assembly that breaks apart fracturable pipe and expands the hole to accommodate the desired size of pipe. Because of the method of applying forces, the expansion of pipe diameter can be very substantial. Because of the head assembly, the head can be disassembled as the pipe and head enter a manhole, vault, structure or limited space and thus no need to excavate the vault or structure or create a large end excavation is necessary, thus saving time and money and avoiding disruption of traffic in street locations.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.