A Peoples Gas case study demonstrates how trenchless pipe-lining technology can be a solution for challenging pipeline repair and restoration projects
Casey Giambrone, Vice President of Engineering, Progressive Pipeline Management (PPM)
Publication: American Gas Association - Fall 2024
PROJECT: Replacement of 24-inch cast-iron medium-pressure gas main
LOCATION: Chicago, IL
CLIENT: Peoples Gas, Chicago
DATE: Spring - Summer 2023
For a cast-iron natural gas main, initial replacement options for Peoples Gas in Chicago seemed straightforward—plastic or steel pipes. However, logistical, operational and system constraints led the utility to explore an alternative solution: trenchless pipe-lining technology. As utilities continue to face the challenge of maintaining infrastructure, trenchless technologies offer cost-effective solutions for extending the life of existing pipelines.
This case study highlights the decision process and outcomes.
PROJECT BACKGROUND
The 2,000-foot section of cast-iron pipeline, installed in 1909, was one of three critical natural gas feeds supplying downtown Chicago. The section of pipeline had undergone more than 43 repairs since 2000. In addition to complications under the ground, the pipeline’s location presented multiple challenges for repair and restoration:
It is in a dense urban area.
The Chicago River is just north and west of the site.
The pipeline crossed under ramps leading to Interstate 90/94, a major highway with heavy truck and passenger traffic.
An elementary school is located within the project footprint.
There are multiple railroad crossings to the east.
Replacement Options and Considerations
The engineering team at Peoples Gas began by considering traditional replacement methods. However, based on operational and system constraints in the immediate and surrounding areas, alternative options were explored. Another possibility that engineering considered and ruled out was pipe abandonment without replacement. As a critical feed supplying downtown Chicago, abandoning this gas line was not a viable option.
““The results are positive. We haven’t had to go back in for repairs. The project helped us decrease methane emissions, which was a major goal.”
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About PPM: Progressive Pipeline Management is a full service contractor and team of highly skilled infrastructure renewal specialists. For over twenty two years, PPM has been improving the safety and longevity of pipeline infrastructure. They hold the exclusive licensee in North America for the Starline® Cured-in-place-lining. PPM’s specialized expertise includes gas pipeline rehabilitation, restoration of damaged or leaking infrastructure, PIPES ACT 2020 compliance and trenchless technology.
