What Does it Mean to Go Trenchless?

The best course of action for repairing any underground utility line may seem like using traditional methods, such as digging trenches. However, as modern utility methods become more and more popular, you now have the option of going with trenchless utility services.

These are no-dig solutions that either cut the earth to make a small enough slit for you to work through or make an opening large enough for the pipe(s) to be replaced but not large enough to disturb the environment.

The most common use for trenchless technology is for sewer line repairs and installations. Here are some advantages that trenchless technology has to offer.

Pros & Cons of Trenchless Utility Services

One of the most significant benefits of going trenchless is that you get to do more with less time and money. The equipment and methodology let utility workers, such as plumbers and electricians, remove broken pipes and conduits from the trench without disturbing other lines or the environment.

Fast fusion and other utility construction services further allow the maintenance or repair service to be performed quickly.

It is important to note that a timely utility construction service can ultimately help remove the need for creating new trenches for repair almost completely. Manholes and other similar access areas are constructed across the line to ensure that technicians have the necessary access point(s) to do their duties effectively.

Examples of trenchless utility services include, but aren’t limited to:

1. Micro-tunneling. This is where a hole is drilled from one point, and a pipe is pushed through it. If needed, the pipe isn’t hollow when being pushed, hence pushing the damaged/broken pipe outside from the other end of the “tunnel.”
2. Pipe Ramming. Steel pipes are attached, and a percussion hammer is attached to the pipe. The pipe is then rammed forward through the reception shaft, pushing everything outside from the other end.
3. Horizontal Auger Boring. A rotating cutting head is inserted from one end, which removes soil and debris in front of it.
4. Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD)
5. Pipe Jacking. Pipes are installed by pushing pipes hydraulically from a launch shaft, creating a continuous string into the ground. The new pipe automatically replaces the old one, pushing it out the other end.

The primary issue with trenchless technology is that the pipeline being replaced may be lodged in the soil permanently, which usually happens when the damaged pipe is left in its place for too long. The corroded pipe may need to be dug up manually.

If you want to replace old conduits or pipes with new ones or install new ones while minimizing your impact on the environment, give Americom utility experts a call today! We’d love to help you identify the best course of action for your needs and explain how we can help.