News Article Archive - Page 2 of 19

Microtunnelling through basalt and very hard rock

Installing pipelines via trenchless methods such as microtunnelling in areas where there has been volcanic activity presents a number of challenges. Depending on the conditions, and pipeline route and specifications, there could be few options available and may result in higher costs for the client. However, a new, innovative advancement by Edge Underground is allowing for easier drilling in difficult hard rock conditions. Stuart Harrison, Managing Director at Edge Underground, said that there are a number of conditions that can be found in areas where volcanic activity has taken place, including intersecting lava flows, quenching, lava tunnels and extreme rock...

Drilling in reinstated goldfields: communication for optimal outcome

Areas that were previously goldfields pose a challenge for trenchless pipeline installations due to the unpredictability of the ground conditions and the high likelihood of hitting reinstated ground. In this situation, communication between the principal contractor and subcontractor is vital as the best course of action can change at any moment, potentially influencing the timeline, costs and outcome for the project. This scenario played out in a project in Ballarat, where Edge Underground needed to suggest alternative options to account for the ground conditions. In areas around Australia that have a gold rush history, such as Ballarat and Bendigo, the...

How can strong principal and subcontractor partnerships increase the chance of success on a microtunnelling project?

Too often on construction sites – when unexpected situations occur or a different way of doing things to reduce risk and improve project outcomes are suggested – it can become a case of principal contractor versus subcontractor. When this occurs, it creates an environment that is not conducive to performance. In order to have a successful construction project, it is vital that there is a strong partnership between the principal contractor and the subcontractor. Communication is key to this; as unexpected conditions can increase risks of a project failing. Subcontractors need to be able to explain these risks as soon...

What pipe is most appropriate for different microtunnelling projects?

Pipe selection can make or break a project so to speak; the wrong pipe can make a project more difficult to complete, increase time and costs, or at worst, fail, while the right pipe will help reduce risk, enhance accuracy, reduce cost and improve the overall success of installation. But with a number of pipe materials available, how do you know which one is right for your application? This will come down to a number of factors – some of which have a greater impact than others – including ground conditions along the route of the pipeline, method of installation,...

Fighting against the elements: pre-planning for success in Townsville

Heading into the wet season in northern Queensland, Edge Underground was working against extreme heat and flash flooding on a microtunnelling project to complete three lines – with one under a major state highway. Fighting against the elements and upcoming holidays, planning played a major role in ensuring the success of the project, so that when the worst scenario occurred, Edge Underground could perform its best and get the job done on time. Edge Underground was subcontracted to complete three microtunnels in Townsville, partnering with Mendi Constructions, a well-known local business. The job required a 450DN, 500DN and 600DN concrete...

Donnybrook pipeline Stage 2: improved project outcomes with innovative solutions

A sudden change in ground conditions during a trenchless pipeline installation may require a rethink of how the project should proceed for the greatest chance of success. However, this can cause things to get complicated and costly when all parties involved have different ideas on how to proceed, and solicitors get involved. When presented with the possibility of such a situation occurring on a project site, Edge Underground collaborated with the other parties to come up with an alternative solution, saving the client time and money. In October 2019, Edge Underground was engaged by Diona for trenchless works on Yarra Valley...

The advantages of vacuum excavation in microtunnelling projects

Vacuum excavation is a key method to help contractors maintain a safe, environmentally friendly, and compact microtunnelling site. This method reduces worksite size by sending excavated material straight from the pit to the tank, leaving the pit clear and the site clean, and eliminating the need for multiple trucks or loaders. Vacuum excavation in microtunnelling has many benefits – from safety, to environmental, to keeping a work site compact. This method sends excavated spoil straight to the tank, with the displaced spoil vacuumed out through a hollow section in the drill head and subsequent drill casing, transporting it to a...