Pipelayers

Pipelaying work is still very hands-on. Tasks like cutting pipe to length, digging trenches, and sealing joints are done by people using hand tools or simple machines ^{[1] [1]}. We did not find any off-the-shelf robot that can automatically lay new sewer or storm pipes.

In related settings, however, automation is growing. For example, the oil-and-gas industry uses autonomous “smart pig” robots to inspect and clean existing pipelines ^[2]. Some companies are also testing self-driving excavators and bulldozers that use GPS, LiDAR and AI to dig trenches ^{[3] [3]}.

But these systems are mostly in pilot stages (like the excavator shown at a 2025 trade fair) and focus on heavy digging or inspection, not the fine work of fitting pipe segments. Today, laying out routes still relies on human surveyors (even if they use laser levels or GPS), and cutting pipe on site is usually done with power saws, not robots. In short, most pipelayer tasks remain manual or “augmented” by simple tools.

AI Adoption

In the construction trades, full automation is challenging. One reason is cost: advanced robots and AI equipment are expensive to buy and maintain, while crews of pipelayers are relatively low-paid labor. Also, work sites change constantly – a jobsite today is very different from yesterday – so a robot would need very flexible AI to handle surprises ^[3].

These factors tend to slow adoption. On the other hand, there are strong incentives to use more automation in future. Construction firms face labor shortages and safety concerns ^[3].

A recent article notes that robotics can cut worker accidents by up to 90% on pipeline inspection tasks ^[2], and autonomous machines can work longer hours without fatigue. As technology matures, pipelayers may start using more AI tools – for example, GPS-guided trenchers or digital sensors for angle and depth – to make jobs easier and safer. But human skills will stay important.

Reading blueprints, adjusting to unexpected ground conditions, and leading a crew are things workers do best. In the short run, AI is expected to augment pipelayers (help them with machines and planning) rather than replace them.