Hammerhead Trenchless highlights redesigned CIPP lining system and more at 2021 Utility Expo

HammerHead Trenchless focused on the utilities market at the 2021 Utility Expo with the release of a newly redesigned cured-in-place pipe lining system, a radio remote pipe bursting system, and a trenchless pipe extraction system.

The newly redesigned Bluelight LED cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining system features user-friendly enhancements and expanded capabilities making it an ideal solution for the rehabilitation of laterals and small sewer pipes 3 to 10 inches in diameter.

The Bluelight technology empowers CIPP lining professionals by alleviating the time pressures of other CIPP systems and curing methods. The specially formulated single-part resin only cures under light in the "blue" wavelength, giving installers significantly longer working time between liner wet-out and curing. Once installed, the automated curing system pulls the LED light head through the liner, curing the resin almost instantly - as fast as 5.4 feet per minute.

Both the original Bluelight system and the newly redesigned model are capable of navigating and repairing 45- and 90-degree bends, and some transitions. The Bluelight system resin is free of styrene's and VOC's, and the system meets or exceeds ASTM F1216.

The new Bluelight system will be available for delivery in Fall of 2021.

The HydroGuide HG550 high-performance cable winch enables operators to precisely match tonnage and speed to a job's specific requirements. The winch is ideal for slitting plastic gas pipes and pulling back new product in lines ranging from 1/2 inch to 2 inches in diameter. Its high-tech features and options protect profit margins through increased operational efficiency and help operators satisfy their customers even on the most demanding jobs. 

The HG550 provides infinite, proportional control of up to 5.5 tons of pulling force at payout/pullback speeds ranging from 3 inches to 110 feet per minute. This means operators can use a HG550 to precisely match payout and pullback to the task. 

The HG550 features a data tracking system to record performance information. Documentation can be used to meet reporting requirements, to support operator training programs, or for internal project tracking, assessment and more. The easy-to-read, Precision Digital Job Data Recorder keeps track of line speed, distance, force and pressure. A USB flash drive makes it easy to store and download data.

The HydroBurst 100XTR gives operators the ability to take on a wide range of sewer, water and gas line replacement jobs with just one machine. The unit's 100-ton capability is rated for up to 16 inches in diameter, yet it is compact enough for use on pipe down to 4 inches. A combination of industry-proven features mean operators can confidently bid and complete a wider range of jobs faster, efficiently and productively. 

The HydroBurst 100XTR comes with an easy-to-learn, easy-to-use radio remote control. Freeing operators from the pit allows them to position themselves for the best view of a bursting operation and increases workspace in the pit for rod handlers. 

Its lightweight, heat-treated alloy rods feature an API-style joint that resists buckling under the greater thrust loads required by longer burst runs, sweeping bends, and encrusted and collapsed lines. Used in combination with specialized tooling, operators can burst the toughest steel and ductile steel pipes.

An automated rod spinner system also enhances productivity and safety by its consistently repeatable, precision performance. A locking jaw system provides constant tension on the rod string eliminating rod rebound, or "bungee effect," increasing makeup and breakout efficiency throughout a push or pull operation.

Hydraulic leveling jacks allow operators to make adjustments on the fly, as needed, keeping the machine on-grade without interrupting bursting operations.

The SLX1300 trenchless pipe extraction system for small diameter steel natural gas services is an innovative new method of replacing coated and bare steel gas service lines 0.5 to 1.25 inches in diameter, up to 100 feet in length. The hydraulically powered SLX1300 unit produces up to 13.3 tons of pulling force to extract the pipe from the ground while simultaneously pulling new HDPE or MDPE pipe into the same location as the existing pipe, reducing risk to surrounding utilities.

The pipe extraction process requires two access points: a machine pit located where the service connects to the main, and an access point opposite the machine from which to pull in the new pipe. A cable is fed from the machine through the pipe and attached to the new pipe at the other end. The machine's jaws clamp the steel pipe and the cable within it, and the machine is then engaged to pull the pipe from the ground. The jaws release and the machine cycles forward to clamp and pull another segment.  The pipe shear located behind the machine's clamping jaw can be engaged at the operator's discretion to segment the extracted pipe in any length as space allows.

The compact size of the unit requires a working pit approximately 4 feet wide by 4 feet long and the entire system can be transported in the back of a standard pickup truck, reducing costs associated with extensive excavation and support equipment needs.

The HammerHead Trenchless line of Same Path Technology also includes a patented pipe slitting system used for the trenchless replacement of plastic gas services. The SLX1300 is designed for steel pipe but preliminary field testing on additional pipe materials is underway.