What is Trenchless Technology?
Trenchless technology is a relatively new method of installing and maintaining underground pipes and cables which does away with the need for excavation. So far it’s been successfully deployed across all types of underground utilities, including water pipes, sewers, gas pipes and electrical conduits. This progressive technique has quickly become popular with construction crews worldwide because of its relatively low environmental impact, as well as the reduction in associated economic and social costs.
Trenchless Technology Methods
Trenchless technology refers to a collection of different construction methods which are utilised simultaneously to carry out below-ground installation and maintenance without causing surface disruption. These methods include:
All of the above techniques are dependent upon the use of specialist equipment, which can be costly to obtain and must be operated by trained professionals. Nevertheless, because trenchless technology minimises the overall cost of below-ground civil engineering, these techniques are considered overall to be extremely cost-efficient.
Domestic Applications
The most common application of trenchless technology can be observed in the modern methods used to deal with domestic drainage issues. Professional drainage teams are now able to take care of drain blockages and repair pipes without needing to dig, drill or use any other invasive method that might compromise the integrity of your property. Mechanical spot repair and sliplining are just two of the most common methods used to repair or replace damaged pipes with minimal need for excavation.
Commercial Applications
Commercial businesses can benefit from using trenchless technology, in a number of different ways. First and foremost is reduced costs, both to businesses employing the technology and those in the vicinity of the construction who might otherwise have experienced the adverse effects of decreased foot and vehicular traffic. Secondly is the reduced environmental impact of trenchless technology, which should be of particular importance to both businesses and local governments who have a vested interest in maintaining their green credentials. The third major benefit is bestowed upon the contractors themselves, who are able to offer their customers a greater range of construction options and complete projects much more quickly and efficient, and with a greater amount of precision.
Information and Resources
Trenchless technology has been growing in popularity since the 1990s, however it has only been relatively recently that it’s really taken off with independent contractors and government-led construction crews. There are, however, a number of organisations around the world which exist to advocate for the comprehensive implementation of trenchless technology; these include the North American Society for Trenchless Technology (NASTT) and the National Association of Sewer Service Companic
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