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Direct installation
Pipes are positioned behind an excavation machine and jacked forward to form a continuous underground pipeline.
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Pipejacking and Microtunnelling
Direct pipeline installation methods in which pipes are jacked forward from an entry shaft using hydraulic rams.
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Pipejacking and microtunnelling belong to the same family of pipeline installation methods and are used for trenchless installation of pipes generally 150 mm in diameter or larger.
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Hydraulic jacks
Pipeline advance is provided by hydraulic jacks installed in the launch shaft.
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Remote control
In microtunnelling, excavation may be carried out by a steerable remotely controlled machine using laser guidance systems.
Concept of pipejacking and microtunnelling
Trenchless pipejacking and microtunnelling methods are essentially part of the same family of pipeline installation techniques.
They are used to install pipes of about 150 mm diameter or greater where the objective is to form a continuous underground line without opening a conventional trench along the full route.
Direct installation system
Pipejacking is a direct installation system in which pipes are positioned behind an excavation machine.
The pipes are pushed forward by hydraulic jacks located in the launch shaft, forming a continuous underground line.
The pipes are specially designed to withstand the jacking forces generated during installation.
At the end of excavation, the installed pipes themselves form the final pipeline.
Definition of microtunnelling
Within this family, microtunnelling is specifically defined as excavation using a steerable remotely controlled machine.
The technique is used to install small-diameter pipes without man entry, propelled by hydraulic jacks.
Steering and alignment control
Microtunnelling machines frequently use laser guidance to maintain line and level during installation.
As with larger-diameter drives, laser and conventional surveying techniques may also be used for alignment control.
Applications and equipment
Commercial systems are available for both mainline installation and service-connection work.
Auger-type microtunnelling machines designed for operation in confined spaces are also available.
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