Large Diameter vs. Small Diameter Sewers: the Case for a Multi-Dimensional Approach to Conduct Condition Assessment of 40-YEARS Old Sewer Pipeline Network

Abstract

During past decades, new technologies and equipment have been introduced to underground infrastructure industry in order to provide easier, faster, and better performance on cleaning and inspection of sewer pipes. Although cleaning and inspection of sewer line is classified as regular maintenance and common practices among municipalities, there are many cities around the world which are reactive on this effort. A case study analysis of cleaning and inspection of 100Km of sewer lines with approximate age of 40 years without previous maintenance is described in this study. Large diameter pipes, and the successive cleaning and inspection of them, have a unique set of characteristics that are significantly different from small diameter pipes. Challenges and barriers to clean and inspect the small and large size sewer pipes with different dimension including circular, arc, and egg shape will be discussed. Recommendations to improve contract practices for cleaning and inspection projects will be provided.

Techniques