For the tricky jobs…

Robotic pipe cutters are relatively difficult to come by in Australia. Only specialised plumbers in the Brisbane and Gold Coast regions may offer these services. Basically, a robotic cutter can be described as a grinding head attached to a maneuverable remote controlled mini tractor, which can go inside the pipework and grind out any obstructions. Some of these may include:

• Star pickets
• Timber
• Obtrusive connections
• Failed reline patches which were put in by an inexperienced plumber
• Concrete
• Re-installing laterals following a successful relining job

Robotic cutters are powered by either air or electricity so do not need to be hand-pulled into place. This high-tech gadget is very handy in situations where an obstruction is found in a pipe found to be under a concrete driveway or a beautiful landscaped garden. It eliminates the need to hang dig or excavate as the cutter can be inserted inside the pipe and remove the obstruction without having to pick up a shovel! A specialised plumber can operate a robotic cutter inside the pipes a bit like a surgeon would perform keyhole surgery; with a lot of care and patience!