Ten Machines, in Synchrony, Move a Pipe String

Midwestern Contractors Executes Complex Pipe String move for Fuel Line Relocation

Elburn, IL. —  5/20/2026— Midwestern Contractors (MWC) has successfully planned and executed a highly complex triple-pipe move in preparation for a directional drill (HDD) pullback. The operation was a critical component of a 3,500-foot relocation project involving three Jet “A” fuel lines.

The centerpiece of the project required an 800-foot horizontal directional drill to safely route all three vital fuel lines beneath an active railroad. To maximize efficiency and structural integrity, MWC recommended an innovative strategy: bundling three separate 8-inch, 0.500-inch heavy-wall thickness (WT) pipes together and pulling them simultaneously through a single bore hole.

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The logistics of moving the pipe strings

The primary logistical hurdle was moving the three fabricated, 800-foot-long pipe strings from the welding and testing area to the drill entry point, aligning them perfectly for the final pullback. Before the move, each joint was meticulously welded, X-rayed for quality assurance, and coated for corrosion prevention.

To safely transport the 38,000 lb. load, MWC deployed a fleet of 10 CAT 120-series track hoes. Each machine was rigged to the pipe using a dual-sling configuration that formed a precise triangle to the boom’s attachment point. This rigging successfully distributed the weight evenly across the entire pipe string, preventing stress concentration.

Rigorous Safety and Planning

Safety and precision were paramount. MWC developed a comprehensive, lift plan to manage the heavy infrastructure safely below equipment capacities:

• Total Load Per String: 37,220 lbs. (plus 1,000 lbs. of rigging for a total of 38,220 lbs.).
• Safety Margin: The average load per machine was restricted to 3,832 lbs. With a maximum machine capacity of 8,820 lbs. (at a 15-foot radius and 10-foot hook height), MWC utilized just 43% of the total rated machine capacity, leaving a reasonable safety buffer.
• Heavy-Duty Rigging: Operators utilized two 16-foot slings per pick point in a choker hitch configuration (rated at 17,000 lbs. each), alongside 15-ton shackles and 11-ton hooks per machine.

Communication and Execution

The successful move relied on a highly coordinated, 17-person team working in absolute lockstep. The onsite crew included a Lift Director, a designated signal person, 10 machine operators, and 5 dedicated spotters.

The entire operation utilized a single, dedicated radio channel to ensure real-time communication. Strict emergency protocols were established, featuring an "All Stop" command triggerable via a long blast on an air horn or a direct radio call. In the event of a stoppage, the protocol mandated that all operators hold their positions while the Lift Director assessed the environment, coordinated with spotters, and safely verified the path forward before restarting movement.

By combining planning and execution with rigorous safety protocols, Midwestern Contractors completed the complex maneuver on time, showcasing their industry-leading capability in managing high-risk utility and fuel line relocations.

About Midwestern Contractors

Midwestern Contractors (MWC) is a premier pipeline and utility construction firm specializing in complex infrastructure projects, horizontal directional drilling, and specialized fabrication. With a steadfast commitment to safety, quality, and engineering excellence, MWC provides innovative solutions for the energy, utility, and transportation sectors.