Successful Rehabilitation of a Pipe Segment Not in Accordance with the Design

There are many factors that can turn relatively straightforward rehabilitation projects into extensive, ongoing efforts. The continuous pipe diameter, number and size of service connections, joint offsets, curves, and varying wastewater flows are just a few things that can complicate design and construction of any rehabilitation project. The need to address corrosion in the 600-foot long segment of 42-inch diameter sewer in the Potomac Interceptor (PI) system was the foremost concern of this project to avoid a possible pipe failure. The corroded section of 42-inch diameter reinforced concrete pipe (RCP) was located in an area that was difficult to access, making trenchless rehabilitation the best overall option. As was discovered in this project, alternative construction proposals can also throw a monkey wrench into the equation. However, when all parties involved work together towards the common goal of best engineering value, projects can be completed successfully within the allotted budget and ahead of schedule.