Project: Colonial Pipeline
Location: Channelview, TX
Asset: Abandoned 36-inch (1,365 LF) and 40-inch (1,430 LF) pipelines crossing perpendicular under the San Jacinto River
CHALLENGE
Colonial Pipeline commissioned the abandonment of 1,365 LF of 36-inch diameter pipeline and 1,430 LF of 40-inch pipeline. The lines ran perpendicular under a section of the San Jacinto River, roughly 1,000 ft wide at the crossing, with the only access points at each end of the pipeline. A horseshoe-shaped drop near the center of the line created an elevation change of approximately 6 to 10 feet. The situation allowed for one opportunity to grout the line correctly.
SOLUTION
Superior Grouting was sub-contracted to pump the abandoned lines completely full of grout under high pressure, the pressure grouting scope of work, performed over two consecutive nights. Grouting was scheduled to begin at 2 AM and finish by 10 AM. Success depended on every piece coming together: logistics, high-volume/high-pressure injection equipment, a job-specific mix design, a steady flow of ready-mix trucks, general contractor support, and proper line set-up, all coordinated to deliver a 100 percent finished product with no room for error.
Results
819 CY of grout was installed, completely filling the abandoned lines.
With a well-coordinated execution plan, an experienced grouting team, and strong general contractor support, the project was completed successfully within the time frame allotted.
