Pipe Jacking Installs Pipes Without Disrupting Normal Business
Pipe Jacking is a trenchless technology method used to install pipe under existing structures such as roads, railways, rivers, buildings and airfields. Unlike open trench pipe installations, pipe jacking does not disrupt businesses and traffic flow.
Pipe jacking is widely used for the installation of utility pipelines such as sewer, water mains, oil, gas, and electricity. It can also be used for culverts, pedestrian subways and road underpasses.
How Pipe Jacking Works
With machine jacking operations, a hydraulic push unit pushes a capsule followed by the pipe through the ground. The capsule excavates the spoils, which are dropped onto a conveyor belt which dumps into a steel box. The box rides on rails out to the pit where it is hoisted by a crane, dumped and returned to the pit to be refilled. The line and grade must be maintained during the installation process. This is accomplished by using a laser beam to verify the line and grade, making adjustments as needed.
The person operating the TBM (Tunnel Boring Machine) uses a laser guidance system to keep the TBM boring along the desired line and grade.
Pipe jacking works best in soils with good cohesion. However, it is possible to use pipe jacking methods in certain unstable soil conditions using close-faced machines or special precautions such as dewatering.
The most common distances for pipe jacking are from 200 to 1000 feet, but longer distances can be covered using pipe jacking.
In challenging soil conditions or when pipe needs to be installed over long distances, intermediate jacking stations (IJS) are installed to help push the pipe through the ground. The IJS helps distribute the jacking load along the pipe, making it easier to push the pipe long distances. The IJS also reduces the risk of breaking the pipe from applying too much force to the pipe at the tunnel entrance.
Size And Type Of Pipe Used In Pipe Jacking
To allow working room inside the pipe, the recommended minimum diameter for pipe jacking is 48 inches. Pipe up to 12 feet in diameter or larger can be installed by pipe jacking.
The type of pipe used in pipe jacking must be able to withstand and transmit the jacking forces necessary to push it through the ground. Pipe jacking typically employs steel pipe; a centrifugally cast, glass fiber-reinforced, polymer mortar pipe (CCFRPM); glass-fiber reinforced plastic pipe (GFRP); or reinforced concrete pipe (RCP).
J & J Boring, Inc. Completes Projects On Time
Since 1983, J & J Boring, Inc. has completed over 1000 projects safely, accurately and on time.
As with all trenchless technology applications, proper assessment of the dig site and soil conditions is critical to a successful project. Our attention to detail ensures a safe and accurate boring procedure, even in challenging soil situations.
Call us at 636-566-6766 for a quote on your project. We will recommend the best method for successfully completing your pipe installation project economically, safely and on time.