To Burst or Not to Burst: Considerations for ACP Sewer Replacement

Pipe bursting is a proven and cost effective trenchless technology that can be used to increase the capacity of existing pipelines; however, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) policies may limit its application when applied to existing asbestos cement pipe (ACP). The design for the Randolph Township, New Jersey Sanitary Sewer project included pipe bursting 366 meters of 20.3 cm (8-inch) ACP. An Applicability Determination was received from EPA that pipe bursting of ACP sewer is subject to Asbestos National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) regulations. Given the EPA's position, a choice must be made to either proceed with pipe bursting of ACP sewers and comply with Asbestos NESHAP regulations or utilize other methods and design approaches to replace or increase the capacity of ACP sewers. The EPA's ruling regarding bursting of ACP has national impacts to wastewater and water agencies, the public and pipe bursting industry.