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Trenchless Technology Key Terms

Get to know no-dig trenchless technogy

By Kathryn Keep
Trenchless technologies, most commonly referred to as "no dig," involve processes and equipment that reduce or eliminate the need for surface excavation, which in turn results in less damage to the environment. This technology makes pipe replacement and repair more efficient in terms of time and money. In short, it saves your yards, roads and sidewalks from the destruction previously necessary to install and maintain underground pipes.

Trenchless technology is in demand and expanding. Getting to know a few trenchless technology key terms will help you learn more. Here are some of the trenchless technology products used in trenchless piping:

1. Underground boring machines use a hydraulic or pneumatic drill to pierce the ground and cut cable or pipe.

2. A Microtunnel Boring Machine (MTBM) is a remote controlled device that eliminates the need for trenches by excavating only the smallest necessary amount of ground before laying pipe.

3. Trenchless technology robots go into pipes that are unsafe or inaccessible and take precise readings and measurements.

 

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.
Try: 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.
Try: 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.
Try: 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.

 

  • 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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