Multi-Pipe Pull Throughs

 

Managing Multiple Pipelines in a Single Bore: Why Spacing Matters

Pulling multiple pipelines through the same bore hole introduces a unique set of challenges for any construction crew. Once those lines are in motion, the question becomes: how do you keep one pipeline from abrading another? How do you prevent collisions as the pipes shift, flex, and—at times—behave more like spaghetti noodles than rigid steel?

These concerns become even more critical at the girth welds. The weld profile naturally creates a high point on the pipe, making it especially vulnerable to damage if adjacent lines come into contact during installation or over the life of the pipeline.

That’s where our BBS (Bundled Bumper System) comes into play.

The BBS system creates a one-inch bumper around the pipeline, effectively spacing lines apart as they are pulled through the bore. While larger spacers can be manufactured, more than a decade of field experience has shown that a one-inch separation is more than sufficient for the vast majority of applications.

By maintaining consistent separation, BBS prevents pipelines from abrading, bumping, or damaging one another—both during installation and after the lines are in place. Just as importantly, once the pipelines reach their final resting position, the spacing created by BBS allows soil to settle naturally between the lines. This ensures your cathodic protection (CP) system has unobstructed access to 360 degrees of each pipeline, helping maintain long-term corrosion protection.

When multiple lines share a single bore, proper spacing isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential. And with the right system in place, it’s one less thing your crew has to worry about.