Importance

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Abstract

An apparatus and a method of extracting buried lead water supply pipe with minimal excavation and which allows removal and containment of the lead pipe. The extraction apparatus includes a frame having an adjustable height mast and a plurality of guide pulleys with at least a first guide pulley mounted on the frame and at least a second guide pulley mounted on the mast. A first cable with a length closely matching the length of the pipe being removed is directed through the buried pipe and connected thereto by a leading collet and a lagging collet which are secured to opposite free ends of the lead pipe. A pulling cable preferably extends from leading collet and is directed around the first and second guide pulleys before being connected to a winch or the like. The mast height is adjusted so that the distance between the first and second guide pulleys is at least that of the length of the pipe being removed.

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First Claim