Inspections performed by Foth Infrastructure & Environment, LLC determined the City of Sheboygan’s 85-year-old Southside Interceptor System, comprised of reinforced concrete pipe, remains in serviceable condition.
Reinforced Concrete Pipe (RCP) is known for its prolonged service life that is unmatched by alternative products. Engineered and manufactured to get stronger with time, RCP proves reliable in challenging environments.
In the spring of 2020, Foth Infrastructure & Environment, LLC partnered with the City of Sheboygan, WI to inspect and evaluate the city’s Southside Interceptor System, comprised of 60-inch diameter RCP and concrete manholes, that was installed in the 1930s. The system stretches 9,300 linear feet alongside Lake Michigan and conveys volumes to the city’s wastewater treatment facility. The lake’s rising water levels in recent years have begun to submerge the system’s manholes and expose them to large waves and seasonal freezing. These conditions restrict access to several parts of the system and make routine maintenance and cleaning impossible. Considering the rising water levels and the system’s age, city officials asked Foth to research the interceptor system and determine if it remains in serviceable condition or warrants replacement.
Foth consulted County Materials’ Technical Resource Engineer, Brian Kolden to determine which types of inspections should be conducted. A visual inspection using CCTV technology was used to examine the pipes’ interior, which appeared in good condition. These results were confirmed by astonishing findings found in the following core inspection. Several core samples confirmed that the 85-year-old RCP became stronger over time and currently outperforms industry standards. Based on these findings, Foth recommended the system’s continued use with armoring, minor manhole repairs, and regular monitoring.
Sheboygan’s Southside Interceptor System has been in service for 85 years and continues to serve the city in proper working condition. This study demonstrates the reliable longevity of RCP and how its benefits contribute to low life cycle cost.
