Scope

A newly placed power pole was installed through an existing asset, causing a major obstruction and presenting a potential flood risk. The issue required a rapid and comprehensive intervention to prevent further damage and ensure the continued functionality of the affected infrastructure.

Services Provided

• Non-Destructive Digging (NDD): TDG deployed specialised NDD equipment to carefully excavate the area, minimising any further impact on surrounding infrastructure.
• Concrete Removal: Jackhammers were used to break through the concrete encasing the impacted section, allowing access to the damaged pipe.
• Damage Assessment and Cleaning: A significant crack was identified in the pipe, extending from the 11 to 7 o’clock positions and measuring 750mm in length. The team thoroughly cleaned the pipe to prepare it for repair.
• Pipe Restoration: Three 1200mm patches were applied to reinforce and maintain the structural integrity of the pipe.
• Encapsulation Prevention: Renderoc was applied around the fibreglass patches, matching the thickness of the remaining pipe, and the area was wrapped with a thick aluminium sheet to prevent future encapsulation.
• Final Restoration: The excavated hole was concreted 200mm above the pipe, then backfilled and topped with topsoil to stabilise and restore the area.

Challenges

• Structural Damage: The crack, spanning 750mm in the pipe, required precise and careful handling to prevent further damage and ensure a reliable seal.
• Access and Encapsulation Prevention: Working around the power pole installation necessitated strategic methods, including the application of aluminium sheeting, to avoid future encapsulation and support the structural durability of the pipe.
• Restoration of Integrity: Ensuring the patched pipe retained its structural integrity, while preventing leaks or further deterioration, required meticulous reinforcement and durable materials.

The outcome

The intervention successfully restored the integrity of the asset without requiring full replacement of the damaged pipe. Collaboration among the teams minimised disruption, prevented potential flooding, and preserved the asset’s functionality. The layered restoration approach effectively mitigated future risks and ensured the asset’s structural stability.