How MICP Secured Sensitive Rehabilitation Project of a Large Diameter Pipe Spanning across the Botanica Gardens in Wichita, KS

The City of Wichita’s Botanica Gardens faces a critical infrastructure challenge involving a 48-in. diameter pipe that extends 700 ft across its property. The aging pipe now requires significant rehabilitation or replacement to ensure structural integrity and sanitary service. While about 65% of the pipe was previously addressed through a combination of complete cast iron (CI) pipe replacement and slip-lining, the remaining 35% posed complex challenges. Two sections could not be slip-lined due to layout defects, and CI replacement would entail major service disruptions and expenses. To assess the suitability of Manufactured In-place Composite Pipe (MICP) technology, SippTech, LLC, conducted a thorough series of evaluations. These included creating an above-ground replica model to mimic the projects pipe deflections, evaluating the operational challenges faced by applicator robots navigating deflections, and ensuring compliance with Class IV structural pipe standards defined by AWWA. With most traditional rehabilitation methods falling short, the choice came down to complete CI pipe replacement or adopting MICP technology. To gain municipal approval for the project, a 224-ft MICP pipe installation within a replica model at the SippTech facility becomes a crucial step. This demonstration will help secure the necessary support from city authorities.