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When a major utility provider suspected a leak in a critical section of filter piping, they turned to RJN to take on the challenge. The system included an 84-inch high-capacity pipeline with multiple 24-inch tee connections, buried 30 feet underground and stretching over 1,000 feet in length.
This wasn’t a typical inspection—and it was by no means an easy one.
With only a limited shutdown window available, RJN had to plan and execute an internal pipeline assessment under tight time constraints and with extreme attention to safety. This level of work required weeks of coordination, specialty equipment, custom communication systems, and an expert field team trained for confined space entry.
While remote inspection technologies are often used in pipeline assessments, this job demanded a different approach. The layout, complexity, and physical condition of the system made it impossible for tech to do the job alone.
The original plan was to send in a remote-controlled car equipped with a gas sensor and GoPro to lead the way.
When that approach failed to deliver reliable results, our first team had to enter the pipe “blind”—relying on their training, safety protocols, and planning to proceed.
Visual Assessment – Field teams visually inspected all accessible interior joints, tees, and connections.
Sound Testing – Crews used tapping sticks to detect hollow or compromised concrete segments based on changes in sound.
Staggered Entry – Each pipe segment was inspected by two teams, with the second group entering after a timed delay to ensure spacing and safety.
Given the hazardous nature of the work, safety was central to every part of the plan:
Pipes drained well in advance to allow safe access.
All valves double- and triple-checked—and padlocked—to prevent accidental chlorine release, which would have been fatal.
Shutdown scheduling adjusted for weather—a freeze delayed entry to avoid frost that could cause slips inside the sloped pipe.
Communication plan developed for over 1,000 feet of pipe where radios wouldn’t work.
The team created a custom knock signal system—specific patterns on the pipe wall meant "evacuate immediately."
This kind of custom solution shows the level of thought, adaptability, and field creativity that went into making this inspection possible.
During the inspection, RJN identified several deteriorating gaskets at 24-inch tee connections, including visible staining and joint offsets. These findings led to immediate prioritization. Five locations were addressed based on our recommendations, and repairs were completed shortly after.
This effort allowed the utility to make data-driven decisions, minimize risk, and ensure system performance moving forward.
This project proved that RJN can do more than design and inspect from aboveground—we can go in, assess high-risk infrastructure directly, and help utility providers get the answers they need under pressure.
Over 1,000 feet of pipe.
Buried 30 feet underground.
Safety hazards that demanded custom solutions.
Inspection completed during a narrow shutdown window.
It was one of the most complex inspections we've ever completed—and we delivered.
Need support with large-diameter pipeline inspection or repair planning? Contact us to learn how we can help.