Background
As part of the training done with the recent purchase of a Kobus Pipe Puller 400 (KPP400), Kobus personnel met with Atlanta Gas and Light crew members at their site in Chamblee, Georgia. While the two-day training was only conducted near Chamblee, the company currently provides service to all of metro Atlanta and has begun a substantial effort to replace aging and faulty galvanized gas service lines with new HDPE pipes throughout the region.
Objective
This particular visit was to ensure the Atlanta Gas and Light team was fully trained on Kobus technology. The goal of the training was to provide clear instructions on operating the machine safely and efficiently. We also wanted to offer practical advice from our own experience, acquired after years of successful projects in different countries, materials and soil conditions.
Process
All pipes removed were 1/2″ galvanized steel, and they were replaced with 1/2″ HDPE. The typical service lengths were between 80 and 180 feet, running from the gas main to an Atlanta Gas and Light customer’s home.
Soil conditions on day one were moderate, with dry compacted clay as the primary composition. Our work on day two presented excellent conditions, with much looser red clay that held much more moisture.
Two services were replaced during the training; however, on day two, we split one 180-foot service into three separate pulls. During the training, we were able to avoid excavating through landscaping, fences, and the road, saving the client both time and money while minimizing clean-up and traffic delays.
Each pull lasted approximately 10 minutes. We successfully utilized the 10mm (3/8) cable commercialized by Kobus.
Outcome
During these types of training sessions, we opt to emphasize safety and education rather than maximizing productivity. We want clients to fully understand our pipe-pulling methods and to become familiar with our equipment. After achieving that foundational knowledge, crews will become better seasoned the more they use the equipment, and higher productivity will result. Despite the slower approach, two services were replaced safely and efficiently with minimal excavation and traffic disruption.
During the training, we experienced no setbacks, cable failures, or KPP400 issues. Most importantly, no strikes with neighboring utilities were recorded. The work was completed by certified Kobus employees with ample experience in the Pipe Puller and technique, who ensured all relevant safety standards remained in place throughout our time there.
Conclusion
Since our training, the Atlanta Gas and Light crews have had continued success with the pipe puller and are excited to continue utilizing this new technology. The Chamblee training session highlights the significant advantages of pipe-pulling technology in urban replacement projects. Not only does it streamline project timelines, but it also increases safety protocols and reduces disruption to residents and the surrounding surfaces.
As organizations prioritize efficient and sustainable solutions, pipe-pulling technology will continue to be the most relevant innovation. We expect future opportunities to encourage widespread adoption of the KPP400 to grow alongside the increased need for underground service line replacement growing.