Trenchless Crossings

Trenchless crossings allow the installation of critical infrastructure without causing disruption to existing roads and railways or environmental disturbance to river for example. Could you imagine excavating a trench across a motorway to install electricity cables?!

Trenchless crossings can be broadly split into two categories:

• Directional drilling: drilled from the surface on a downward arc trajectory to then surface on the other side of the obstacle being crossed
• Microtunneling in a horizontal line between two shafts or pits

Soiltechnics’ Geotechnical Consultancy Team can offer support throughout the life of the project. An initial phone call to discuss the project is normally enough for us to provide a high level feasibility assessment and identify key ground related constraints. We would follow this with a detailed desk study and ground investigation to confirm conditions at the crossing location. Finally, we design the crossing profile.

From Aberdeen to Bognor Regis, we have supported the delivery of trenchless crossings, beneath a variety of critical infrastructure, including motorways, oil pipelines, railways and rivers. Each project has a unique set of challenges, including shallow groundwater, UXO potential and blowing sands to name a few.

As part of the design, we undertake a Ground Movement Assessment to estimate likely settlement beneath existing infrastructure (roads, rails, pipes) and where applicable a damage impact evaluation. For directional drilling we also model the potential for frac out during the drilling process.

Working alongside the main contractor, providing technical design support, our team successfully deliver technical approval from governing bodies, including National Highways and Network Rail. The support continues throughout construction by reviewing daily monitoring, which is typically required.

If you have a trenchless crossing requirement then get in touch today.