The organizing phase of wet utility pipeline construction is focused on the formation of design plans developed by design engineers. In order to create blueprints, engineers need to acquire detailed dataabout the worksite.
This is accomplished by working with subsurface utility engineering (SUE) companies that survey the site using high-tech products. SUE methods are equipped for creating 3D images that identify objects buried underground, such as water pipeline or utility systems.
Subsurface utility engineering methods are very valuable to everyone involved in the project. Having the ability to identify the position of previously installed pipeline let contractors perform their job more safely and proficiently, as well as decrease project costs.
Before SUE methods were developed, pipeline companies had minimal resources to determine what was lurking below ground. It wasn’t unusual for laborers to accidentally break pipes or slice utility lines while excavating the construction site or making trenches. This often led to workplace incidents that triggered worker injuries or sometimes even death.
Any time existing pipes were discovered during the excavation process, construction workers had to quit work so that design engineers could either overhaul or relocate pipelines. This brought about long delays and resulted in an increase in project costs.
Thankfully, SUE technology removed the majority or risk factors attached to pipeline construction. Today, construction sites are significantly safer and project delays have been minimized, saving project owners a substantial amount of money.
Pipeline construction is essential for supplying natural resources to people, together with removing storm water runoff and waste water. Water pipeline systems provide human beings with basic necessities and play a important role in public safety.
Many different factors have to be looked at during the pre-construction planning phase. One of the more important is determining which kind of pipes is needed to effectively convey water while lessening impact to the environment.
Each of the factors associated with the project undergo extensive examination during the design phase. Civil engineers evaluate facts gathered from SUE to determine water flow rates and appropriate pipe sizes. Construction plans are taken to city planners and project owners for acceptance. Plans designed for public works projects have to comply with government regulations, including the Environmental Protection Agency.
After blueprints are submitted, project owners acquire bids from pipeline construction companies. The company chosen to complete the project must supply the General Contractor with confirmation of insurance, construction permits, and easement rights before construction begins.
The active construction stage is a three-part process. The initial phase revolves around clearing the worksite of debris and grading the land. Trucks bring in pipes and construction products so workers can start the trenching process.
Pipe sections are placed alongside trenches and welded together. Contractors use a special epoxy coating that is placed on welded joints to remove weak points that could leak. The pipeline is then lowered into trenches and finishing details are applied.
After pipeline is put into place it endures a series of tests to assure the pipes have no leaks and that structural integrity has not been jeopardized.
Several inspections are executed throughout the active construction period. Inspectors evaluate contractors’ licenses, construction permits, and insurance policies and make certain employees are sufficiently trained in construction safety procedures. Inspectors also examine pipes and components to make certain that construction supplies, pipeline formula, and structural integrity are in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
The post-construction step revolves around restoring the terrain by backfilling trenches, landscaping the ground, and removing waste materials. Additional inspections are done to make certain pipeline are working at greatest capacity and to test structural integrity.
Pipeline projects are identified as either wet or dry utility. Dry utility contractors carry out work related to pipes that carry non-gaseous materials or safeguard utility systems from ecological elements.
Wet utility contractors conduct work on pipeline systems that carry liquid materials such as storm water runoff, treated water, raw sewage, and petroleum-based products.
It is suggested to work with skilled wet utility construction contractors that are skilled in the kind of work involved. Seek out contractors that have an impeccable construction safety report and are in compliance with the EPA.