The document summarizes the steps taken during a pipe bursting job to install a new 4" SDR17 sewer line running 60 feet through the rear easement of a residential property. Key steps included preparing the work area, pulling the old pipe out of the ground using a bursting head attached to a cable, fusing the new polyethylene pipe together using an electrofusion machine, and pulling the new pipe into place behind the bursting head. Proper safety procedures and techniques such as using cribbing and insulating abrasion points on the new pipe were followed to successfully complete the installation.

1. TRIC Training Log: 05-28-04 Client: ARS Rescue Rooter, Burlingame, CA Job: Residence, rear easement Pull: 60’ / 4” / SDR17

2. Unpacking: The shipping box can be reused to store and transport the ram .

3. Fusing area: Give yourself a clean, level space.

4. Unloading: This vehicle is equipped with a mini-crane. The yellow nylon strap shown here on the power unit is only suited for anchoring it during transport, not for lifting it.

5. 13 horsepower macho machine!

6. Pulling hole: Here the edge of the concrete path is a good guide for the resistance wall, as it happens to be perpendicular to the sewer lateral. Sewer main is under worker.

7. Heating iron: Factory setting is usually 450º and can be adjusted with a small slot screwdriver as shown. Counterclockwise increases temperature, clockwise decreases it.

8. Lining up pipe: Support pipe near fusing jig to maintain alignment of facing ends, and check alignment prior to shaving pipe.

9. Facing: When securing pipe in jig clamps, leave just enough room between pipe ends to fit shaving tool when jig is fully opened. Then while facing, watch for full, even ribbons of shavings from both pipe ends.

10. Keep it clean: Remove shavings from fusing area before heating pipe.

11. Inspecting surfaces: Make sure there is no debris or dirt remaining around or inside pipe at joint area. Remove any such material with a clean cloth or paper towel. Avoid touching shaved ends with dirty or greasy fingers

12. Heating: Keep heater bag nearby, so you can concentrate on your pipe at fusing time.

13. The “drag path”: Insulate pipe against building corners or other abrasive surfaces.

14. Clean entry.

15. Ready for tension: After setting up the ram and pulley, get out of the hole for the pull.

16. STOP! Look for the clevis sheath (cable terminator) to appear at the threshold of the pulley housing. Then release the ram and use cribbing or the extender cage to continue. Pulley area should remain unobstructed to allow clear view at all times as shown.

17. Not quite there: Cribbing is required to allow another 6” to 8” of pull before head can be freed. In this case there is not enough room to use the extender cage.

18. Just enough: Keep plenty of wood on hand (4” x 4” lumber is ideal).

19. Releasing the ram.

20. Bumping the pipe: Now that the bursting head is free and removed, the pipe can be bumped along with relatively little force.

21. Tough stuff: PE pipe can take a beating.

22. Wrapping up.

23. Storage tip: Get an old tire to keep your cable together.