Edge Underground has successfully delivered its first project in Tasmania; a complex, time-critical microtunnelling installation for TasWater.
This milestone project marked a major step in Edge Underground’s expansion, showcasing the team’s ability to mobilise quickly, work in diverse conditions, and deliver efficient trenchless solutions on tight timelines.
The job involved installing glass reinforced plastic jointed pipe (GRPJP) with an outer diameter of 1099mm, requiring a bore diameter of 1130mm – a large size by microtunnelling standards. Edge Underground deployed its next-generation AdaptX machine, which is engineered for both precision and power, even in difficult conditions.
Developed by Edge Underground’s parent company, OptionX Group, the AdaptX was built to handle varying ground conditions with maximum efficiency. On this TasWater project, the team encountered everything from sandy clay to dense sandstone with compressive strengths up to 60MPa, a challenge that traditional microtunnelling equipment would struggle with.
“Seeing our AdaptX machine in action across the Bass Strait is a huge moment for us,” said Stuart Harrison, Founder of Edge Underground and CEO of OptionX Group.
“This project is exactly what we had in mind when designing the machine. It is giving us the ability to work in tight spaces, through tough ground, without slowing down.”
The AdaptX’s vacuum extraction capabilities further boosted speed and efficiency, reducing jacking forces and helping the team complete the bores ahead of schedule.
In addition to the tough ground conditions, the team also worked around access constraints. Located beside a busy motorway, the site had limited space due to existing shafts and a narrow footprint – a perfect application for the compact yet powerful AdaptX system.
Now operating from a new South Australian base, Edge Underground is continuing to grow its presence across Australia, bringing its expertise and innovative trenchless solutions to more clients.
This project not only demonstrated the adaptability of the AdaptX system but reinforced Edge Underground’s role as a trusted delivery partner for complex infrastructure projects.