Development of trenchless technology guidelines

Abstract

The conventional method of open-cutting the full length of the job to install pipe or conduit can lead to many problems. This procedure can cause major disruptions in the surrounding region, especially if it is congested or environmentally protected. Backfilling may lead to settlement or heaving. Surface restoration can be very costly and time-consuming. Also, open trenches are potential hazards for those working in and around them. These are only a few of the many common concerns that have led to the development of trenchless technology. Trenchless technology refers to the materials, equipment and methods used to install, replace or rehabilitate pipe or conduit without open-cutting the entire length of the job. The goal of this project was to create a decision mechanism to assist the user when choosing a trenchless technique for installing pipe or conduit (focusing on pipes or conduits up to 30 centimetres in diameter and 100 metres in length). Once developed, the decision support tool was applied to a sample case to display its capabilities. Trenchless technology is not a new idea. However, many of the more recent, advanced forms of this technology are not common in this part of the country. This report is intended to introduce the reader to the various trenchless techniques available for smaller pipe installation jobs.