Trenchless technology

Trenchless technology allows for installation of small diameter pipes without disrupting businesses or stifling road traffic, and virtually eliminates the damage to the surrounding area. Horizontal directional drilling (HDD) method of installation avoids the deep, extensive, open cut excavation methods historic systems usually employ, thus eliminating extensive surface restoration, dewatering, and silt containment required. Precision installation of the Small Bore Sewer™ around utilities and challenging terrain can be performed utilizing this subsurface installation technology which reduces the amount of soil removed during construction and requires only small, non-disruptive machinery during operation. Environmental impact to the natural surroundings is dramatically reduced or eliminated by this technique; disruption of the construction area is minimized to drilling pits at the entry points and exit points for the sewers and at the tees for the maintenance holes and laterals.

Horizontal directional drilling
(photo Courtesy of Vermeer Trenchless Equipment)

The benefits of the SBS™ technology related to installation include:

• Doubles the daily installation/production rates
• Smaller crews install lighter 4” and 6” mains and 3” lateral materials with fewer trained installers required
• Lighter installation equipment with less noise and impact on the environment
• Can be combined with water main installations in the same/common trenchless pullback in SBS™ systems
• Since SBS™ can sustain an inflective gradient, HDD can follow natural grades at the ground surface
• Coiled rolls of HDPE pipe can be stored on-site without utilizing a large footprint
• Continuous mains can be installed requiring no bedding and no additional granular materials brought to installation site
• Laterals can be installed using trenchless technology
• HDD can maneuver around existing subsurface utilities and roots, protecting heritage trees and removing the need to reinstate roadways, driveway and/or sidewalks
• Dewatering may not be necessary, saving costs for expensive dewatering pumps