assessing sewer pipe condition

[akce]

Situation: failing pump station
Existing Pipe Run: 1/3 mile length; part 2"galv.steel; part 3"copper; 20yrs old; buried & inside culvert type utilidor

Before replacing the pump station, I wish to gain an understanding of the pipe condition and remaining life expectancy. Site is very remote (accessible only by aircraft). Backhoe avail. TV contractor may be able to run 100ft from end (max).

Should I be concerned with corrosion, scour, leaks, and constrictions? What else?

 

[dicksewerrat]

How deep is the run? Can the old pipe be pulled out and a new HDPE line pulled in? You could have coorosion and or build up in the line.

 

[akce]

Design soil cover was 2 ft. Some fill has been added in places.

The old pipe is clamped to supports within the utilidor and therefore cannot be pulled out.

I feel I should not direct replacement of the pipe until I understand that the condition of the existing pipe is poor. I understand HDPE would be a good alternative for replacement. Thanks for your reply.

Any other ideas?

 

[jherbert]

hi,

The site is remote, and you have a backhoe on site? I would seriously consider doing the work now. It is only 1/3 mile, 20 years old and nearing end of economic life - replace it.

Putting a new pump on an very old piping system is just asking for trouble in my view.

It seems that part of the pipe might have been replaced already (GI or copper).