MICROTUNNELLING

Microtunnelling is a process that uses a remotely controlled Microtunnel Boring Machine combined with the pipe jacking technique to directly install product pipelines underground in a single pass. This process avoids the need to have long stretches of open trench for pipe laying, which causes extreme disruption to the community. Product pipes of a variety of materials can be used, but typically consist of steel, concrete and GRP.

• Minimal reinstatement
• Inherent strength of lining
• Smooth internal finish giving good flow characteristics
• Minimal surface disruption
• Less risk of settlement
• Reduced requirement for utilities diversions in urban areas
• No requirement for secondary lining
• Considerably less joints than a segmental tunnel
• Provision of invert channels in larger pipes to contain the dry weather flow of a sewer in a combined system
• Significant reduction in social costs when compared to open cut trenching in urban areas
• Reduced environmental disturbance

Perco works closely with its Microtunnelling partner, Iseki of Japan. For more information about microtunnelling, please contact Nick Sheehan.