Duct pullers used for intricate multi-duct challenge
Problem: On a rainy week in San Mateo, California, LT Directional was up against some mighty odds. They were in a metropolitan area that put them up against public transportation railway on the surface and a complex maze of existing underground utilities beneath. That job was to install 54-by-4-inch pipes over 500 feet that paralleled the San Mateo rail. With some significant high-tech companies headquartered in neighboring streets, such as Survey Monkey, Sony Interactive and GoPro, the crew had a lot to lose if they inadvertently hit some existing underground power or communication utility lines along the bore path.
Solution: LT Directional knew that a custom setup was needed to get all pipes installed safely. They decided upon a 32-inch open-style Tornado Reamer, and a Deluxe Barrel Stabilizer, both trailed by a custom-manufactured multi-duct puller from the Melfred Borzall engineering team. The multi-duct puller had 27 eyes connected to 27 Deluxe Duct Pullers that protected the pipe ends with a bell. Engineers had a challenge as they had to build this from scratch and tailor it to LT Directional’s job specs. It required engineering a method to keep the package as small as possible but provide clearance for each of the 27 pipes to safely attach. After sharing designs, collaborating, and finalizing the puller, it was tested and delivered by their Northern California HDD specialist.
Result: They safely and successfully installed the product — even in the middle of a rainstorm. 800-558-7500; www.melfredborzall.com
