Traditional construction work typically takes advantage of trenches; however, trenches can be cumbersome, time-consuming, and have serious safety risks. As a result, trenchless technology has become more common. Trenchless technology refers to subsurface construction work that does not require many continuous trenches. In some cases, it may not require any trenches at all. This underground construction method can be used to renew, repair, or install underground cables, ducts, and pipes. Without the need for excavation, the process could be faster and safer.
Table of Contents
The Advantages of Trenchless Technology
There are several significant advantages of using trenchless technology. A few examples include:
- You do not necessarily have to use as many materials because you don’t have to dig a trench before you get started.
- You can save time because you don’t have to worry about excavating a trench to start the construction process.
- You can install utilities near canals, highways, and rivers without disrupting the flow or harming the environment.
- Because it is not necessary to excavate before starting, there are fewer safety risks.
There are several ways trenchless technology can be used during the construction process.
Possible Methods and Applications
There are several methods that can be used to take advantage of trenchless technology. Some of the most common examples include:
1. Horizontal Auger Boring
Horizontal auger boring is a type of trenchless excavation that uses a rotating helical piece to extract the soil in a straight line. It looks like a large screw, and it removes the soil as the helical shaft moves forward.
There are several examples where this technique can be helpful. It works well in softer ground conditions, and it is a versatile, straightforward construction method for laying or installing pipes.
2. Slant Drilling
If you need to drill a non-vertical well, you may want to use directional drilling, also known as slant drilling. Using this process, you will drill wells at multiple angles. It has been used in the oil and gas industry for decades, and it has become more popular for other practices as well. Using this process, you can drill multiple wells from the same vertical bore, reducing your environmental impact.
3. Horizontal Directional Drilling
Also known as horizontal directional boring, this is a trenchless technology method that can install underground utilities with minimal impact. Some of the most common uses of this technique include laying cables, conduits, and pipes. It is popular because it does not significantly disturb the environment.
Using this method, a small pilot hole is drilled. Then, the bore from the pilot hole is enlarged. Finally, the pipeline is pulled into the hole, creating a continuous segment.
4. Utility Tunneling
Utility tunneling is used to create a utility corridor. This is a passage built underground or above ground. It is used to carry sewer pipes, water pipes, steam, or electricity. These pipes can also carry telephone lines, cable television lines, and fiber optics. This is a straightforward tunneling process that can be used to avoid the process of laying a full trench.
5. Trenchless Pipe Lining
If you need an alternative to traditional pipe replacement, trenchless pipe lining is a suitable option. It takes less time and manpower. The pipe is created using a type of epoxy, and it gives you a tremendous amount of strength and durability without disturbing the surrounding landscape or structure.
6. Microtunneling
As the name suggests, this is a digging technique that is used to create tiny tunnels. The tunnels have a very small diameter, so there is a small machine that has to be operated remotely. Typically, microtunneling machines range from 0.5 to 1.5 m, but there are machines that fall outside of this rain. Typically, the machine is sent through an entry eye, and the pipes are pushed in behind the machine.
Rely on SoftDig for All Utility Locating and Subsurface Utility Engineering Needs
Today, there are a lot of alternatives to building a traditional trench. It can save a significant amount of time and money while also producing safety risks. If you are looking for an efficient way to lay utility lines and pipes, count on SoftDig. We provide professional utility locating and subsurface utility engineering services. It would be our pleasure to help you with your needs as well. Contact us today for a quote, and learn more about how we can help you.
