Use of Trenchless Technology for Stormwater Pipe Rehabilitation

As urban infrastructure ages, the rehabilitation of stormwater pipes becomes a critical concern to ensure the efficiency and reliability of aging municipal drainage systems. This paper presents an overview of two stormwater pipe rehabilitation projects conducted for the City of Fort Worth as part of the city’s storm drain improvement program. The projects encompassed an in-depth comparison of different trenchless rehabilitation techniques, considering factors such as cost-effectiveness, environmental impact, constructability, and schedule. Most importantly, the improvement looked at the overall effectiveness of extending the service life of stormwater mains and laterals and continuing to provide adequate service during storm events. After thorough evaluation, two types of trenchless methods for rehabilitation were recommended: Cured-in-Place Pipe (CIPP) and Spray Applied Pipe Lining (SAPL) using geopolymer concrete. The projects’ findings emphasize the advantages of utilizing CIPP and SAPL with geopolymer concrete for enhancing stormwater system longevity and performance.