Replacing aging underground pipes efficiently is a core challenge in utility contracting, and pipe bursting technology provides a trenchless solution. These systems fracture existing pipes while simultaneously installing new ones, minimizing surface disruption and reducing project timelines. Equipment varies from compact, portable units for residential laterals to powerful hydraulic systems capable of handling large-diameter mainlines. Key features include robust pulling force, modular designs for versatile setups and specialized cutter heads for different pipe materials. Check out some product options below.
PE Equipment PE-10
The PE-10 from PE Equipment is a multi-function trenchless machine, primarily built for water and lead line replacement, utilizing a single chassis with interchangeable modules and a no-weld structural design. The modular chassis allows it to perform the functions of multiple machines, providing speed and flexibility when on job sites with difficult situations typically requiring multiple machines. The no-weld structural design allows for the replacement of any part by the user. It has the ability to change functions from a pipe-bursting to rod-pushing module in 10 minutes. It has a small footprint under 4 by 2 feet, along with a lightweight chassis that can be carried by two people. It has a fast push/pull speed capable of up to 13 feet per minute depending on conditions. 406-499-8136; www.pe-equipment.com
Power Mole Trenchless Solutions PD-33M
The PD-33M pipe-bursting machine from Power Mole Trenchless Solutions is designed to replace existing underground pipes 2 to 6 inches in diameter. Its nonslip, cylinder-activated jaws prevent cable damage while providing 60,000 pounds of pulling force. It offers a cost-effective alternative to opencut excavation, reducing customer disruption and increasing company profits. The process replaces the existing pipe with a fused HDPE pipe, which eliminates all joints and allows the operator to pull through bends such as 45-degree fittings. This system is modular and can be easily disassembled and reassembled for manhole and basement applications. With a compact design and very small footprint of only 20 by 20 inches, this unit can be used in tight locations. 800-344-6653; www.powrmole.com
RODDIE R8
The R8 pipe bursting system from RODDIE is easy to use and lightweight, can be set up vertically or horizontally and can also be adjusted to use three different size cables. This unit can replace 1-, 2-, 3-, 4-, 6- and 8-inch pipes with ease and speed. Inexpensive cable grabbing inserts last 70 to 120 jobs, which reduces costs. High-quality tool steels on articulating bursting heads promote rare resistance for long-lasting service. The pulling rate is 8 feet per minute and is hydraulically powered from your tractor, providing a pulling force of 30 tons. The wireless remote system is reliable and has a signal strength that moves through any cellar wall. Maintaining the system is simple, as the user only needs to rinse off and re-grease six Zerk fittings. 888-406-3821; www.roddieunderground.com
TRIC Tools X30
The X30 pipebursting system from TRIC Tools offers a revised pulling bridge design plus cylinder body refinements that make the X30 puller lighter and stronger than previous models. The HC14 hydraulic power-pack delivers over five times the speed of previous pumps. Recent power-pack improvements include heavy-duty wheels and frame, double-acting handles for extra portability in difficult field situations, a wireless remote control, and a special circuit to power hydraulic tools such as jack-hammers, trash pumps and concrete saws. 888-883-8742; www.trictools.com
TT Technologies Grundoburst
Burst and replace water, sewer, gas and other pipes with the Grundoburst static pipe bursting system from TT Technologies. It can pull in a variety of replacement pipe including PVC, DIP, ABS, cast iron, fusion welded HDPE and VCP jacking pipe. The static pipe bursting system utilizes a specially designed bladed cutter head to make bursting ductile iron and steel pipe possible. Pulled by a hydraulic bursting unit, the cutter head’s special cutting wheels split the host pipe. An attached expander spreads and displaces the split pipe into the surrounding soil while simultaneously pulling in the new pipe. QuickLock bursting rods are linked together, not threaded. This saves time, prevents twisting and extends the life of the cutter head over threaded bursting rods. Six models are available for bursting 2- through 54-inch pipes and larger. 800-533-2078; www.tttechnologies.com
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