Often installed decades ago, aging utility infrastructure poses significant risks to communities. The failure of service lines and contamination from hazardous material, particularly to children most vulnerable to the harmful effects of lead exposure, are some of the consequences municipalities across the country are trying to avoid. Because of this, the demand for comprehensive solutions has never been greater. Fortunately, the path to addressing this critical issue is clearer than ever.
Traditional methods of lead pipe replacement have been costly, disruptive, and environmentally taxing. However, trenchless technologies—especially pipe pulling—offer a modern, efficient alternative that meets the dual goals of reducing costs and minimizing community impact.
Why Pipe Replacement Shouldn’t Wait
The detrimental effects of lead exposure are well-documented. Even low levels of lead in drinking water can impair brain development in children and contribute to health challenges such as kidney damage and hypertension in adults. High-profile incidents, such as the Flint water crisis, have underscored the severe consequences of failing to address this issue, placing heightened scrutiny on municipalities.
At the same time, evolving regulations like the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) strengthened Lead and Copper Rule mandate the complete replacement of lead service lines over the next two decades. This regulatory urgency, coupled with growing public pressure, leaves local governments with the need to act sooner rather than later.
Trenchless Technology Saves Time and Money
Trenchless methods allow municipalities to replace or rehabilitate pipes with minimal surface disruption. These technologies create solutions that do not rely on large-scale excavation, instead focusing on targeted entry points to carry out the replacement process. Among the techniques available—such as pipe bursting and cured-in-place pipe (CIPP)—pipe pulling stands out as a reliable and scalable solution for lead pipe replacement.
Pipe pulling involves inserting a new pipe into the existing service line path while simultaneously extracting the old pipe. This method minimizes surface impact, making it particularly effective for urban and residential areas where disruption to roadways, landscaping, and daily routines must be minimal. Pipe pulling is also highly adaptable, with demonstrated success across various terrains and environments.
Pipe Pulling Provides the Biggest Advantages
Among trenchless technologies, pipe pulling stands out as a leading method for underground service pipe replacement. Using innovative Kobus equipment removes aging lead pipes entirely while simultaneously installing new piping in the same path. Unlike traditional excavation, pipe pulling requires minimal surface disruption and results in a more seamless process, reducing the risks associated with corroded or crumbling infrastructure.
Among the most notable advantages of pipe pulling are the higher overall efficiency and adaptability to varied pipe conditions. The Kobus KPP400 excels in scenarios where other trenchless methods, like pipe bursting, may not be practical or when surrounding soil stability or pipe diameter variations impact the job.
Pipe pulling can also be the most cost-effective solution for municipalities facing financial and operational constraints. Cities can drastically reduce overall project costs by using Kobus equipment to eliminate the need for large-scale excavation and surface restoration. Capable of running at up to 20 feet per minute while pulling the new service right behind the old, a Kobus Pipe Puller finishes the job faster, adding to the cost savings.
Of course, limiting disruption to the community is an essential consideration for densely populated areas. Pipe pulling requires only a few small access points, so there is less downtime for residents, reduced traffic interruptions, and minimal noise compared to traditional approaches.
Environmental sustainability is another key strength of pipe pulling. The reduced excavation and complete removal of old service lines align with broader municipal goals of promoting eco-friendly practices. Leaving more of the surface above service lines undisturbed and using smaller machinery with less emissions amplifies the environmental benefits.
Build a Pipe Pulling Plan
While the advantages are clear, implementing a Kobus KPP400 for underground service pipe replacement can require some strategic preparation. The upfront investment in Kobus equipment can be a financial hurdle for some governments. However, there are solutions available. Municipalities may have access to federal and state infrastructure grants to offset the initial costs. Specifically, The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, signed in 2021, allocated approximately $15 billion to the states to support the goal of eliminating lead pipe risks by 2034.
Regardless, pipe pulling offers a proven, cutting-edge solution for local governments that must meet regulatory obligations and want to build trust and goodwill within their communities. By partnering with Kobus on their most important public works projects, municipalities have a simpler, faster, less expensive way to provide their residents with safe, reliable drinking water.
Contact a Kobus representative today to learn more about the most innovative solution to trenchless pipe replacement.