Pipe Bursters

Pipe Bursters FAQs

What is pipe bursting used for?

Pipe bursting is mainly used for replacing old, damaged, or undersized pipes without the need for extensive trenching. It's ideal for utility projects like water, gas and sewage pipelines. The method involves breaking up the old pipe while simultaneously pulling in a new pipe, making it highly efficient for projects with minimal disruption to the surrounding environment. This process can also be used to upsize pipes, replacing smaller pipelines with larger, more modern ones to meet increased demand or comply with updated regulations.

How does the pipe bursting process work?

The pipe bursting method works by using a powerful bursting head that breaks the existing pipe into small fragments. As the bursting head moves through the pipe, it pulls a new pipe in its place. The process is typically powered by hydraulic or pneumatic rigs, depending on the job size. This technique allows you to replace the same size or upsize pipes without the need to excavate large trenches, saving time and reducing environmental impact. The new pipe is pulled through the same pathway as the old one, making it ideal for urban environments or areas where digging is impractical or costly.

What types of pipes can be replaced using this method?

Pipe bursting can be used to replace a variety of pipe materials, including but not limited to clay, cast iron, concrete and plastic pipes. It's most commonly used for older infrastructure that may be cracked or damaged but can also be used for modern pipes that need to be upsized. This method is particularly effective in utility systems where pipes are outdated or undersized, such as water and gas lines, as well as telecommunications infrastructure. By breaking up the old pipe and replacing it with a new one, pipe bursting can offer an efficient solution to a range of pipeline problems.

Can pipe bursting be used to increase pipe size?

Yes, one of the key advantages of pipe bursting is its ability to upsize pipes. During the bursting process, the bursting head not only fractures the old pipe but also creates enough space to pull in a larger replacement pipe. This makes it a perfect solution for projects requiring pipe upgrades, such as replacing smaller water mains or gas mains with larger ones to meet growing demand or regulatory requirements. This allows you to avoid the need for additional trenching or surface disruption, which would otherwise be required for traditional methods of pipe replacement.

What equipment is included in the hire?

Our pipe bursting service includes everything you need to carry out the job efficiently. This includes the bursting rig, which powers the operation, as well as various accessories like expanders, towing heads and roller blades. We also provide additional equipment like launch kits and optional locators, which help improve accuracy and ensure that the new pipe is installed correctly. Our team is available to offer expert support and advice on how to use the equipment, ensuring a smooth, successful project from start to finish.

Is this equipment available across the UK?

Yes, we offer nationwide availability of our pipe bursting rigs and accessories. With depots across the UK, we ensure that equipment is delivered to your site when you need it. Our local branches are fully stocked and ready to support your projects, no matter where you're based. Each rental is backed by our expert team, who can provide on-site support and training to ensure that your project runs smoothly and efficiently. Whether you're working on a small local job or a large-scale infrastructure project, we've got you covered.

Pipe bursting offers a smarter way to replace or upsize underground pipelines without the need for digging lengthy trenches.

By fragmenting the existing pipe and drawing in a new one behind it, this method saves time, reduces environmental impact and minimises disruption to surrounding areas.

Our fleet includes high-performance rigs like the Groundburst 400G and SND Bursting Rigs, suitable for a wide range of pipe sizes and materials.

We provide a full solution - bursting units, expanders, towing heads, roller blades and more - to ensure you're fully equipped from setup to completion.

Whether you're working on utilities, civils or local authority projects, pipe bursting is ideal for size for size replacement or upsizing ageing infrastructure to replace damaged pipework quickly and efficiently.

All equipment is supported by our expert team and available from our nationwide depot network.