ASTM F3632-23 - Standard Practice for Close Tolerance Pipe Slurrification (CTPS) Method to Replace, Rehabilitate, and Repair Existing Buried Asbestos Cement (AC) Pipe Systems

1.1 This practice covers the requirements and test methods of an EPA-approved alternative work practice (AWP) for the replacing of an Asbestos Cement (AC) pipe by the Close Tolerance Pipe Slurrification Method in accordance with said EPA CTPS AWP issued on June 10, 2019. This process utilizes a patented method (US 10,557,587 B2)2 and other specially designed tools designed to work with the EPA regulations surrounding AC pipe work. Specifically, the special (patented) back reaming tool (US 8,365,841 B2)2 delivers the required bentonite-based fluid to maintain a wet cutting environment which is an important requirement for cutting Asbestos Cement Material (ACM). The sizing of the cutting head is set at 0.25 in. in diameter greater than the replacement pipe's outside diameter to facilitate the removal of the ACM. This close tolerance sizing creates a scenario where the new pipe, along with the injection of the drill fluid, will allow the slurry to flow and subsequently expel at pre-determined pit locations. The slurry containing the ACM is then removed from the site and properly disposed of. Any remaining trace amounts of asbestos fiber in the ground are encapsulated in a skim coat of the slurry remaining around the new pipe, the skim coat having the consistency of a lightweight concrete material commonly known as excavatable flowable fill.

1.2 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.