The term trenchless technology refers to underground utility construction work which does not require digging trenches. The method works by replacing existing buried pipes and structures without or with minimal excavation, which means there will be no disruption to the ground surface. Digging is kept to a bare minimum, typically just at the ends of pipes where connections need to be made. Trenchless technology is used in several applications and is done in both the commercial and residential industries. The method of going trenchless has saved cities, taxpayers, and homeowners a lot of money since its development.
The main benefit of trenchless technology is the minimal surface invasion required, especially when compared to conventional digging methods. It is referred to as a “No Dig” method. This can be particularly beneficial to commercial construction projects, where minimal backfill improves the long-term sustainability and durability of surface paving projects, such as roadways where utilities run beneath. Utilizing trenchless methods can be very favorable in residential pipe or line replacements, as lawns can remain intact and it will not be necessary to dig up walkways or driveways should the pipes run beneath them and incur the cost of additional repair. Typically, in most types of trenchless applications, one to two small access holes are dug to allow for the trenchless machinery. The access holes are easily repairable with minimal backfill.
Trenchless technology is also considered an eco-friendly alternative, given that its impact on landscape is minimal and the need to remove trees for pipe or line replacement is drastically reduced or eliminated. It is also highly beneficial due to the remarkable, substantial cost savings it can provide both residentially and commercially, as construction times are often cut in half, and costly repairs are not required for paved surfaces that when using past traditional methods of pipe excavation, would have been damaged.
Many applications can now be done using trenchless technology. Every year, additional trenchless sewer, gas, water, and electric replacement projects are effectively completed using trenchless equipment. These include non-invasive repairs of clay, asbestos cement, cast iron, or galvanized pipes, as well as for storm drain lines and underground gutters and ductwork.
Trenchless construction can be applied to new line installations as well as repair and replacement of pipes. New pipeline installations include utilizing the trenchless methods of Horizontal Auger Boring, Horizontal Direction Drilling, Pipe Ramming and Micro-Tunneling. Methods used for existing pipe replacement include Cured In Place Pipe (Pipe Relining), Pipe Bursting, Underground Coatings and Linings, Point Source Repair along with other varying and developing trenchless methods. The same purpose applies to all methods, which is to eliminate old pipe and install new pipe in its place with minimal ground intrusion and disturbance. In order to determine which method will be most effective will depend on the piping that needs replacing, where the pipes are positioned, and the overall length of the pipes.
Companies that specialize in residential and commercial trenchless technology become more in demand each day, as the need for more efficient and cost-effective repairs for plumbing and piping continues to grow. Trenchless technology allows for more flexibility and can deal more efficiently with difficult constraints that may be present on a jobsite. This makes it an in demand field for those seeking a career, as well. There is no doubt that trenchless technology is the way of the future.
