Investigation of pilot tube micro-tunneling (PTMT) and pipe bursting construction risks

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Pilot Tube Microtunneling (PTMT) and Pipe Bursting are effective trenchless technologies for underground pipeline installation and rehabilitation. These trenchless techniques are ideal for environmentally sensitive locations, busy urban cores and mature neighbourhoods, where small construction footprints and efficient project delivery are essential for minimizing disruption to surrounding businesses and residents. The City of Edmonton-Drainage services has employed both PTMT and Pipe Bursting for pipeline installation and rehabilitation projects throughout the city; however, limited scientific knowledge on rather young trenchless techniques has associated their application with lots of challenges and unanswered questions. In addition, Alberta's unique cold climate imposes high depths of cover for underground infrastructure, which in turn has presented extra challenges. The University of Alberta, in collaboration with the City, intends to investigate and identify these challenges and develop effective strategies to mitigate their frequency and/or impact. Researchers will use data from past and current City PTMT and Pipe Bursting projects to identify and categorize risk events, and use this information to develop strategies to circumvent risks. Based on preliminary research and understanding, there is a deficiency of verified models and procedures to accurately predict jacking forces for PTMT projects and pull forces and surface ground movement for Pipe Bursting projects. These deficiencies commonly lead to equipment failure, project delays and cost overruns. This study will enhance the productivity of industry by providing much needed scientifically backed knowledge and procedures with respect to PTMT and Pipe Bursting techniques in cold regions.