Trenchless sewer repair technologies have been around for over 10 years in the residential space. Professionals have used them even longer in commercial and industrial settings. The 2015 International Construction and Utility Equipment Exposition (ICUEE) is held as a way to keep professionals and industry insiders up to date with the latest goings-on. This year it took place at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, Kentucky from September 29 through October 1.
Billed as the premier event for utility and industry professionals, they set a record this year with over 18,000 registered people in attendance, according to a press release from their own website. They had everything from new technology, equipment, perma liners, and trenchless pipe repair strategies. With information from that and an industry news source, TrenchlessOnline.com, here are some of the highlights from the event.
One of the most exciting events of the day was a live drilling competition in which four teams from across the country competed in. The teams were scored by a panel of judges on the time it took them to complete the drill, accuracy, safety procedures, and teamwork. The winning team was BandT Drainage hailing from Marshall, Illinois.
One of the new pieces of technology being showcased was a new pipe bursting machine by HammerHead. The HydroBurst 100XT Static Pipe Bursting System gives sewer repair contractors 99 tons of pulling power in perma liner replacement jobs.
Sewers that are 40 years or older probably need to be replaced. Most experts agree pipe bursting and lining are equally durable. HammerHead has not yet announced the warranty on their new product, but most come with one between 10 and 50 years.
Another one of the really cool pieces of equipment shown at the conference was the DigiTrak Falcon Locator from Digital Controls Inc. Without getting to complicated, this new locator analyzes active interference at HDD job sites and allows workers to more accurately navigate drill heads.
Event organizers are hoping to build upon the success of this year in years to come.
“Attendees are finding more companies, product innovations and product demos — plus quality networking with industry experts and peers that really increases the value of the show,” said show director Sara Truesdale Mooney.