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Search a glossary of trenchless technology key terms

Large searchable online glossaries help keep you up to date on the newest terminology. Each glossary is unique, so it may be helpful to search more than one. Additionally, you might benefit from looking at a glossary specific to international areas.

I recommend: The International Society for Trenchless Technology (ISTT), based in the UK, maintains an extensive glossary. The North American Society for Trenchless Technology (NASTT) also maintains a useful glossary of terms.

Read about the techniques involved in trenchless pipe replacement technology

Understanding the terminology for the specific techniques involved in trenchless pipe replacement technology will help you put your knowledge into action. Although there are many trenchless techniques in use today, the most common are auger boring, horizontal directional drilling or HDD, pipe jacking, soil displacement, dry boring and microtunneling.

I recommend: A brief description of the most common trenchless technology techniques is available at Industry IDS. See nodig-construction.com for more detailed descriptions of each method sponsored by trenchless technology companies. The site maintains a current list of available books for more in-depth information on trenchless technology key terms.

Know your trenchless pipe replacement equipment

Learn more about common equipment currently used in trenching technology, such as trenchless technology robots, MTBM and underground boring machines.

I recommend: Visit RedZone Robotics for specific information on the inspection and data gathering capabilities of trenchless technology robots. Akkerman describes the features available in microtunnel boring machines. See Porta-Mole for information on different types of underground boring machines.

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Many construction equipment rental companies now rent trenchless equipment and can be great local sources of information for your project.
• •  Trenchless technology is ever changing, so it pays to keep up to date. Sign up for a free email newsletter for the latest information.

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Find multiple quotes for trenchless technology services and accessories online

If you're looking for the widest variety of companies specializing in trenchless technologies and trenchless technology accessories, online information and quote centers are a great place to start. You can either contact companies one-by-one for quotes or find multiple quotes for trenchless technology products and services by filling out one simple form.

I recommend: Search Nodig.com for list of trenchless technology providers, as well as trenchless technology accessories. For a list of licensed and certified trenchless installers, fill out a free request for information through TRIC Tools, Inc..

Hire a trenchless piping expert via trenchless technology societies

Trenchless pipelines are laid best by experts. Still, you should do your research before hiring anyone, even an expert. There are several, both national and international, societies and forums dedicated to continuing education and leadership in the trenchless technology industry. Their newsletters and guidelines are among the numerous membership benefits. Adhering to their guidelines could also mean more business for trenchless technology businesses.

I recommend: For a direct link of thousands of trenchless professionals, become a member of NASTT. The ISTT offers a section with 9 guidelines for basic trenchless technology operating descriptions.

Trust well-known, expert trenchless technology companies

Employ a company that comes highly recommended. If you've relied on trenchless pipelines in the past and know the right questions to ask of a trenchless technology service, stick with trenchless technology manufacturers or businesses that have a solid reputation as well as a long-standing history in the industry.

I recommend: TT Technologies, Inc., one of the most reputable trenchless pipe replacement technology companies, does business both inside and outside the U.S.. Contact Geo Engineers, named one of the top 50 trenchless technology design firms by Trenchless Technology magazine, for services in your area.

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you're interested in witnessing how companies employ trenchless technology in everyday operations, see for yourself. Find no-dig demos and check out the latest in equipment and demonstrations in trenching technology at no-dig shows. It's also a good idea to visit an industry expert onsite before you hire to witness the company's work quality and safety practices.

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Get to know trenchless technology basics

There are many organizations all over the world dedicated to the advancement of trenchless technology. Check out free information and stay up to date by signing up for an email newsletter with one of them.

I recommend: The North American Society for Trenchless Technology (NASTT) is a key resource for education and training throughout the United States and Canada. NASTT's free resources include printable fact sheets and downloadable presentations. Trenchless Technology Online offers web seminars as well as other education and business related resources.

Learn more about trenchless equipment

Trenchless piping requires advanced equipment, which includes underground boring machines. It's well worth learning what the latest trenchless equipment can do for you.

I recommend: Enviro-Flow provides detailed information about available commercial and residential trenchless pipe replacement equipment and pipe rehabilitation options, such as pipe lining. Vermeer offers basic information and news articles describing the use of horizontal directional drilling machines, also called HDD machines.

Explore trenchless technology companies

Well known companies, large and small, utilize trenchless technologies to keep up with consumer demand for more environmentally friendly services.

I recommend: Roto-Rooter uses trenchless sewer technology. Its website offers detailed information and a video demonstration of the pipe bursting technique it uses. Trenchless describes the many applications for trenchless technologies.

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Visit the annual International No-Dig Show for an educational and fun look at all trenchless technology has to offer. You can network with trenchless technology manufacturers from all over the world at the event.

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Look for guided boring machines trenchless technology products and supplies

Consider using guided boring machines to minimize the invasive nature and manpower needed to bore your pipe lines. Using guided boring machines can reduce the surface disruption. The technology also has the capabilities of boring many different sized trenches to fit pipes big and small.

I recommend: Get an overview of trenchless pipelines equipment at the North American Society for Trenchless Technology. They offer several learning resources and manufacturer links. To find replacement equipment and parts, contact Akkerman. They manufacturer guided boring machines and many other trenchless options.

Find portable underground boring machines for smaller jobs

Contractors with trenchless boring needs from laying outdoor plumbing lines to burying cable in a non-evasive manner can find portable auger boring machines very useful. Find the same accuracy in portable equipment that you expect from large trenchless technology. Most manufacturers also sell replacement parts and other equipment to get your trenchless job done quickly.

I recommend: Trenchless technology manufacturers like Porta-Mole sell underground boring machines for the smaller jobs. They also sell many replacement parts and accessories. To find out more about trenchless technology before buying a unit, read the information the RedZone Robotics provides. They are the manufacturers of robotic trenchless equipment.

Consider using directional drilling trenchless equipment

Horizontal directional drilling equipment can be used as a great alternative to digging large trenches for laying pipes, cables and other equipment. With horizontal drilling equipment, your surface area is left unscathed and you save time digging and replacing soil.

I recommend: TRIC Tools is a leader in trenchless piping equipment and supplies. They manufacturer many drilling options including horizontal and guided trenchless equipment. The company also provides a complete overview of trenchless technology and helpful explanations of all their equipment. Oxford Plastics sells plastic pipes used for trenchless pipe installation.

Use soil displacement equipment for underground trenching

Soil displacement equipment is used to create an underground cavity for pipes or cables. The process can be simultaneous with pipes put in place while soil hammering occurs, or in separate steps. Soil displacement is one of the oldest methods of trenchless technology available, so there are many options and accessories available for the process.

I recommend: TerraMacs manufacturers soil displacement equipment and accessories. Vermeer is another leading manufacturer of trenchless equipment and accessories. For more information about soil displacement equipment and the trenchless process read the guide at the International Society for Trenchless Technology.