Pipeline backfilling is one of the most important stages of pipeline construction, providing a protective layer that helps safeguard the pipeline from damage while ensuring long-term stability and performance. Producing properly sized backfill material is essential to meeting project specifications, protecting pipeline coatings, and minimizing the risk of future maintenance issues.
For many contractors, processing suitable material directly from the excavation can also reduce hauling, lower material costs, and improve overall jobsite efficiency. On a 5-mile oil and gas pipeline project in Ohio, these priorities led the contractor to partner with Leslie Equipment Company and utilize the ALLU DH 3-17 and DH 4-17 Screening Buckets to produce specification-ready backfill on-site, keeping material moving efficiently while supporting a streamlined construction process.
The Importance of Backfill on an Oil and Gas Pipeline
Proper backfilling and padding are essential to the long-term performance and safety of oil and gas pipelines. A layer of screened, fine material placed around the pipe helps protect the external coating from damage caused by rocks, debris, and other sharp materials during installation and throughout the pipeline’s service life. This protective cushion also provides uniform support, reducing point loading and minimizing the risk of settlement, movement, or stress on the pipeline as the surrounding soil compacts over time.
By producing specification-compliant padding material directly on-site, contractors can improve construction efficiency, reduce the need for imported aggregates, and help ensure the pipeline is installed to the required project standards.
With such a crucial job and high standards, it is important to use machines and attachments that will get the job done right the first time. Richard (Rick) Petty, who works in Leslie Equipment’s National Equipment Rentals Sales says, “I have worked with ALLU buckets since 2009, and ALLU has outperformed the competitor buckets every time.”
Where ALLU Steps In
The ALLU DH 3-17 and DH 4-17 Screening Buckets equipped with XHD 25 mm configuration are well suited for pipeline backfilling because they produce consistent, specification-ready material directly from excavated soil. By screening out oversized rocks and debris on-site, the buckets create a fine backfill material that helps protect pipeline coatings while providing uniform support around the pipe. On the Ohio jobsite, even in conditions of wet material and clay, ALLU still performed the job to meet quality expectations.
Mounted directly to an excavator, the ALLU buckets allow contractors to screen and place material with the same machine, reducing equipment requirements and eliminating the need to transport excavated material to a separate screening plant. This efficient workflow helps keep pipeline construction moving while reducing hauling costs, fuel consumption, and dependence on imported backfill material.
Safety and Cost-Savings in Mind
Unlike traditional screening plants that require multiple machines, ALLU Screening Buckets screen and place padding material using the excavator already on the job. This efficient workflow helps keep pipeline projects moving while lowering operating costs and maximizing the value of existing material. Rick Petty shared, “With the ALLU padding buckets, you can get through the material pretty quick and get the pipe covered up and move on to the next part of the job.”
Fewer support machines, truck movements, and material transfers help reduce congestion around the work area, creating a safer and more efficient jobsite for operators and ground crews. The bucket range also allows for smaller attachment usage, reducing weight on the machine and potential tipping.
ALLU Screening Buckets are engineered to improve both safety and serviceability. Their durable, easy-to-maintain design allows routine service to be completed efficiently, helping minimize downtime while keeping operators and maintenance personnel safer throughout the project.
Rick agrees, saying, “The serviceability of the ALLU buckets out here on a job really helps the customer with less downtime and more time padding pipe. These buckets are very efficient and can help the customer get their job completed quickly.”
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