Kangaroo Valley Pipeline

The 2.5 km Kangaroo Valley pipeline carries raw water to the Fitzroy Falls reservoir in New South Wales. An inspection carried out in 2021 revealed advanced corrosion of the bearing plates and stainless steel components. The challenge for WaterNSW was to replace the 190 bearings without disturbing the structure or the surrounding soil.

VSL Australia developed a non-intrusive solution based on temporary lifting frames attached to the piers. This device allows the pipeline to be lifted locally using hydraulic jacks, and then the main and side bearings to be replaced. The method met the site's constraints: limited access, steep slopes and distance from suppliers.

The teams also repaired the concrete supports, repairing cracked concrete or exposed reinforcement.

In line with the circular economy, the old supports were fully recycled. The lifting frames were returned to the client for future maintenance work.

The project helps to secure an infrastructure that is essential for the supply of drinking water, while limiting the impact on the environment and operations.