Digital-Age Tunneling

Microtunneling (MT) is a remotely controlled, laser guided pipe jacking procedure. The microtunnel boring machine (MTBM) is operated from an above ground control room using a computer. Since this method does not require workers to be inside the tunnel, smaller diameter pipes can be installed using MT.

As with all trenchless technologies, microtunneling allows pipes to be installed under the existing infrastructure with minimal disruption of normal business and traffic flow.

Microtunneling applications include:

• Sewer networks
• Water networks
• Power supply networks
• Communication line networks

Microtunneling Pipe Size, Length, Type and Depth

Microtunneling can be used for pipes that range from 48″ to 12′ in diameter.

The length of the drive is usually from 200 feet to 1000 feet, but longer installations have been done.

The most common types of pipe used with MT are steel pipe; a centrifugally cast glass fiber-reinforced polymer mortar pipe (CCFRPM) or glass-fiber reinforced pipe (GFRP).

A minimum of 5 feet of ground cover or a depth-to-diameter ratio of 3 is recommended for MT installations to avoid surface settlement.

The Microtunneling Procedure

Hydraulic jacks are used to push the microtunnel boring machine (MTBM) into the ground. A section of pipe or casing is put in place, slurry lines and control cables are connected and the hydraulic jacks are used to push the MTBM and pipe section into the earth. The slurry lines are connected to a slurry cleaning system where the spoils are removed from the slurry waters. The reclaimed slurry water is re-used for further spoils removal.

Once a section of pipe or casing has been jacked into the tunnel, another section is put in place and the procedure is repeated until the entire length of pipe has been installed.

A laser guidance system and closed circuit TV cameras (CCTV) are used to keep the MTBM correctly aligned as it cuts through the earth.

J & J Boring, Inc. Completes Projects On Time

J & J Boring, Inc. has been successfully completing trenchless technology projects since 1983. We specialize in horizontal boring and tunneling with casing diameters ranging from 12 inches to in excess of 12 feet. Our tunnel boring equipment can be used in a variety of applications depending on the project requirements.

At J & J Boring, Inc. we handle turnkey boring and tunneling projects as well as subcontracting with companies who need trenchless technology services as part of their project.

We are committed to providing quality service and safely completing projects on time and within your budget. Call us at 636-566-6766 for a quote on your project.