Ask the Experts
Q: What are the different methods of getting PipeDiver™ into and out of a live pressurized pipeline?
The standard way to launch and retrieve PipeDiver™, is to use specially designed launch and retrieval tubes. The PipeDiver™ is pre-loaded into the launch tube and then attached to a flanged gate valve. Once the gate valve is opened the PipeDiver™ is then inserted into the pressurized water main.
The retrieval tube is similarly attached to a gate valve and has a built-in catching net that is inserted into the pipe prior to launching the PipeDiver™. When the PipeDiver is caught by the net it is pulled up into the retrieval tube, the gate valve is then closed, and the retrieval tube is removed from the pipeline.
The main advantage of using the launch and retrieval tubes is that they have been designed specifically for this purpose and have had proven field success. The disadvantage is that there is not always a proper sized gate valve at the desired launch and retrieval sites therefore requiring additional costs to excavate, tap, install a gate valve and restore the site.
Alternative methods can be custom designed that utilize existing pipeline features such as tanks, reservoirs and open channels. In these scenarios the PipeDiver™ is launched or retrieved in part of the system that is not pressurized. Special guiding sleeves and nets are used to ensure successful launch and retrieval. These solutions are custom designed and have the advantage of not requiring the pipeline to be tapped.
- Cameron White, Solutions Manager
For more information, contact Cameron at Cameron.White@ppic.com
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