S11 E05: Smells Like Money Podcast: Healing Our Buried Infrastructure: How New Trenchless Rehabilitation Technology Makes the Impossible Possible

In this episode, Suzan Chin-Taylor, aka The DooDoo Diva, continues her insightful discussion with Dr. Samuel Ariaratnam, a pioneer in trenchless technology and a respected professor at Arizona State University. Dr. Sam provides an in-depth look into the world of trenchless technology, its applications, and the advancements that are reshaping how we approach buried infrastructure rehabilitation.

Host: Suzan Chin-Taylor | Guest: Dr. Samuel Ariaratnam “Dr. Sam”

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Key Discussion Points:

Introduction to Trenchless Technology:

Trenchless methods allow for the installation and rehabilitation of buried infrastructure with minimal surface disruption, likened to the difference between traditional open-cut construction (akin to open-heart surgery) and trenchless methods (akin to angioplasty).
These techniques are efficient and reduce the time and costs associated with traditional methods.

Options for Addressing Aging Infrastructure:

Dr. Sam discusses the three main approaches: constructing new infrastructure, replacing existing systems, or rehabilitating current infrastructure using trenchless methods.
He emphasizes the increasing adoption of trenchless technology, especially in aging infrastructure markets like North America and China.

Advancements in Trenchless Technology:

Dr. Sam highlights the innovations in materials and methods that are making trenchless solutions more viable and cost-effective.
The global market, including China, is now heavily focusing on rehabilitation, creating a vast market for trenchless technologies.

Lifecycle Costing:

The importance of considering lifecycle costs over the immediate expense. Cheaper initial solutions may lead to higher long-term costs due to the need for frequent repairs.
The role of standards, such as ASTM, in ensuring that technologies are adopted correctly for long-term efficacy.

Selecting the Right Technology:

Dr. Sam advocates for a “toolbox” approach, where engineers consider all available methods and narrow down the options based on project-specific factors.
He encourages consultation with contractors and industry experts to make informed decisions.

Education and Adoption:

Dr. Sam discusses the role of education in the widespread adoption of trenchless technology. He mentions the importance of municipal personnel attending conferences and learning about these technologies to implement them effectively in their communities.
He is involved with organizations like the North American Society for Trenchless Technology (NASTT) and the American Society for Civil Engineers (ASCE), which offer scholarships to municipal personnel to attend these conferences.

Conclusion:

The episode concludes with a powerful reminder of the importance of forward-thinking in infrastructure management. Dr. Sam’s expertise provides valuable insights into how trenchless technology is not just a trend but a necessary evolution in how we manage and rehabilitate our buried infrastructure.

Call to Action:

Listeners are encouraged to explore further resources on trenchless technology, including attending industry conferences, reading up on ASTM standards, and considering the lifecycle costs in their infrastructure projects.

Contact Information:

Dr. Samuel Ariaratnam “Dr. Sam”

Professor, Arizona State University (ASU)

Sun State Chair of Construction Management and Engineering

Samuel’s Profile – linkedin.com/in/samuel-ariaratnam-783332

Website – construction.asu.edu/faculty/ariaratnam (Personal)

Email – ariaratnam@asu.edu

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