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Pr oject Considerations for Pipe Replacement Methods 261

6.9.11 Service Connections
The service (lateral) connections stated in the submittal list should
explain the proposed material and connection procedures. Inspec-
tion of the existing pipe normally provides the location of service
connections. In replacing water and gas lines, metal detectors can
often be used. Standard practice is to locate, expose, and disconnect
services prior to pipe bursting. Service connections can be made
®
with Inserta Tee , specially designed fusion fittings, or strap-on sad-
dles. Figure 6.15 shows an electrofusion saddle with a cutter attached,
which is convenient to hot tap HDPE pipe lines for water or gas
applications.
For sewer applications, a “window” is cut in the HDPE pipe wall,
and then one of the above fittings is used to connect the new HDPE
pipe to the lateral connection. The Inserta Tee connection is a three
piece service fitting consisting of a PVC hub, rubber sleeve, and stain-
less steel band, as shown in Fig. 6.16.
The Inserta Tee is a compression fit into the cored wall of a sewer
mainline and requires no special tooling. Inserta Tees are designed to
connect 4- through 15-in. services to all known solid wall, profile,
closed profile, and corrugated pipes. The PE lateral connection
options include fusing a lateral HPDE pipe to the main line and plac-
ing an electrofusion sewer saddle. Fusing a lateral PE to the main PE
line requires curved iron that allows heating the ends and exposed
surfaces of both pipes. This connection requires a highly skilled fusion
worker because it is usually made in a tight space.
An electrofusion saddle is mounted on the opening for fusion
with the main line, as shown in Fig. 6.17. It is important to ensure
that all exposed surfaces are clean and maintained in an acceptable

FIGURE 6.15 Electrofusion saddle with cutter attached. (Source: Handbook
of Polyethylene Pipe, 2008.)