Importance

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Abstract

The invention discloses a system for splitting and spreading existing underground pipe and pipe fittings. A plurality of cutter wheels are positioned within a cutter assembly frame. A first cutter wheel cuts the pipe and scores the pipe fittings. A second cutter wheel rides in the path cut in the pipe by the first cutter wheel and cuts the pipe fittings. A plurality of paired pipe expanders are formed on the outer periphery of the cutter assembly frame. Pipe expanders contact the inner surface of the pipe wall and keep the cross section of the pipe circular while the cutter wheels cut through the pipe and pipe fittings. Also, the paired pipe expanders keep the cutter wheels in a vertical alignment and thirdly, they loosen and scrape residue and built-up material from the inner wall of the pipe. A mandrel is connected to the trailing end of the cutter assembly and to a pipe adapter which in turn is connected to a foremost section of new pipe. The mandrel spreads the cut pipe and fittings and pulls the pipe adapter and the new pipe through the bore of the existing pipe. A train comprised of multiple sections of steel rods is connected to a leading end of the cutter assembly and pulls the cutter assembly and mandrel and pipe adapter and the new pipe through the bore of the existing pipe and pipe fittings. Cable/winching means or hydraulic means supply the motive power to use and operate the system.

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First Claim