Critical Data Needs Associated with Asbestos Cement Pipe Renewal Methods
Publication: Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 141, Issue 1
Abstract
Asbestos cement (AC) pipe accounts for approximately 15% of the total length of water distribution system piping in North America. Pipe renewal activities are needed to maintain these pipes as they deteriorate, but concerns over the environmental impact and regulations associated with these construction methods are largely misunderstood. Confusion around these issues led this study to determine (1) what the regulations allow, (2) which renewal methods are applicable, and (3) the critical data needs associated with these methods when used for AC pipe renewal. This paper describes current AC pipe renewal regulations and practices (e.g., pipe bursting, cured-in-place pipe lining, etc.) and the critical data needs relating to AC pipe renewal (e.g., study of the asbestos fibers released in air, water, and soil during construction). These findings are valuable for water utilities in need of solutions for renewing their aging AC pipes and in understanding regulations. The recommendations highlight the needed investigation into the environmental impact of AC pipe renewal construction, which when completed will help clarify future regulations.
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Acknowledgments
This research is being carried out as part of Water Research Foundation (WaterRF) Project No. 4465, which is co-funded through the Innovation and Research for Water Infrastructure for the 21st Century U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) research program. The authors would like to express their gratitude to the participants who provided valuable feedback on the direction of this project during a Research Needs webinar.
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Information & Authors
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Published In
Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 141 • Issue 1 • January 2015
Copyright
© 2014 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Oct 10, 2013
Accepted: Jun 2, 2014
Published online: Aug 5, 2014
Published in print: Jan 1, 2015
Discussion open until: Jan 5, 2015
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