Ductile iron or steel pipe
Tough materials are cut rather than burst.
Trenchless Pipe Replacement
Pipe Splitting in Knoxville, TN
A cutting blade splits the old pipe open while a new pipe is pulled in, ideal near other utilities.
- DiggingSmall entry and exit pits
- MethodPull-through
- ResultAll-new pipe
Pipe splitting is a close cousin of bursting. Instead of fracturing the old pipe, a cutting blade slices it open and an expander pushes the pieces aside while the new pipe follows. Splitting is chosen for tough materials such as ductile iron and steel, and for sites where vibration or ground displacement from bursting would put nearby utilities or structures at risk. It brings the same benefits of a small footprint and all-new pipe.
We inspect the line, plan the pull, set small pits and run the splitting tool through the host pipe with the new pipe attached. We coordinate with locates and keep close watch on nearby infrastructure. Afterward we make connections, test and restore the site. If bursting or lining would serve you better, we tell you.
When this is the right call
Utilities close by
Cutting avoids the shock of bursting.
Older water mains
Many water lines suit splitting.
Space-limited sites
Small pits suit tight work areas.
From first call to final video
- 01
Inspect and plan
We confirm the pipe material and surroundings.
- 02
Dig pits
Small entry and exit pits are excavated.
- 03
Run the splitter
The blade opens the old pipe as it travels.
- 04
Pull new pipe
HDPE follows the split pipe through.
- 05
Connect and test
The line is reconnected and verified.
Drag to compare.
Benefits that show up above ground
Handles hard pipe
Works on materials that resist bursting.
Gentler on surroundings
Less ground vibration.
Small footprint
Pits instead of trenches.
All-new pipe
A complete replacement.
Pipe Splitting: answers
How is splitting different from bursting?
Bursting fractures brittle pipe. Splitting cuts tougher pipe open.
Is it used for sewer and water?
Yes, and we recommend by material and site.
Will you need to dig up my yard?
Only small pits are needed.
How long does it take?
Many runs take a day or two with prep and restoration.
Often needed alongside this
Pipe BurstingA bursting head breaks the old pipe outward while a brand-new pipe is pulled in right behind it.Explore 
Trenchless Water Line ReplacementReplace old or leaking water service lines with new pipe pulled underground, without digging up…Explore 
Trenchless Sewer ReplacementReplace a failed sewer line with all-new pipe using bursting or pulling methods instead of a tr…Explore 
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