Patent ID: 6702521
Filing Date: 2004-03-09
Classification: F16L

Abstract:
A tool for replacement of underground pipe, having a central longitudinal axis, said tool comprising:a) a nose having an outside diameter smaller than an inside diameter of said underground pipe and having a nose coupler operative to couple to a pulling chain; b) a rear portion having a rear coupler operative to couple to a retaining chain; c) a plurality of pipe breaking elements extending radially outwardly from said central longitudinal axis, operative to engage and to fracture or cut said underground pipe as said tool is drawn through said underground pipe; d) a high-pressure system having a coupling point connected to a plurality of nozzles by internal channels, wherein said coupling point is operative to couple to a high-pressure hose and to receive high-pressure fluid or gas from said high-pressure hose, said internal channels operative to convey the high-pressure fluid or gas to said nozzles, wherein said nozzles are on said rear portion of said tool, and wherein said nozzles are operative to emit jets of the high-pressure fluid or gas rearwardly from said tool against pipe fragments and against soil surrounding the underground pipe when said tool is drawn through the underground pipe.