What is a pipe jacking?

The pipe rammingalso known as "pipe jacking"is a pipeline installation technique used to cross terrain without opening surface trenches. This method is essential when crossing existing infrastructure such as roads, railways, rivers or other barriers is required. In this article, we will explore in detail how this technique works, its advantages, and the most common applications.

How is pipe ramming performed?

The process of pipe ramming begins with the excavation of a launching wellwhere the necessary equipment is placed to push the pipe below ground. As the pipe advances, a cutting head breaks through the ground, displacing the material toward a receiving or exit shaft.

Throughout the process, the alignment and level of the pipe is carefully monitored to ensure accurate installation. Depending on the terrain, different techniques can be used to stabilize the excavation, such as the use of bentonite or support fluids.

Pipe jacking applications

Pipe jacking has multiple applications, especially in areas where open pit excavation is not possible. Some of the most common uses include:

• Urban infrastructurePipe jacking is ideal for installing sewage, gas or drinking water networks in densely populated areas without disrupting traffic or affecting the urban environment.

• River and road crossingsWhen it is necessary to install pipelines under rivers or roads, pipe jacking makes it possible to cross these obstacles without the need for detours or large excavations.

• Industrial projectsIn industrial plants or environments with limited access, pipe jacking facilitates the installation of subway pipelines without affecting daily operations.

Equipment used in pipe ramming

Pipe driving requires specialized equipment to ensure safe and accurate installation. Some of the most common equipment includes:

• Cutting headsEquipped with steel discs to drill the ground, they allow to efficiently advance through different types of soil.

• Hydraulic cylindersThey are in charge of pushing the pipe through the ground. The force they apply is controlled to avoid deviations in the path.

• Monitoring systemsThey help ensure that the pipe remains in proper alignment throughout the driving process.

Differences between pipe ramming and other installation techniques

It is important to differentiate pipe ramming from other techniques used for subway pipe installation. Below, we compare this method with other common options:

• Horizontal directional drillingWhile pipe ramming pushes the pipe from an entry point, horizontal directional drilling allows you to drill a path and then pull the pipe through the path. You can read more about horizontal directional drilling here.

• Tunnel Boring MachinesTunnel boring machines (TBMs) are used for larger and generally horizontal projects. Unlike pipe jacking, tunnel boring machines are capable of excavating large diameter tunnels for large-scale projects. If you would like to learn more about tunnel boring machines, please see the section on tunnel boring machines.

Advantages of the use of pipe jacking

Pipe jacking is an increasingly used method due to its multiple benefits. Among the main advantages are the following:

1. Less impact on the surfaceUnlike open trench methods, pipe ramming reduces surface disturbance, which is essential in urban or sensitive areas.

2. Increased accuracyWith the right equipment, pipe ramming allows for very precise installation of pipes, which is crucial in projects that require exact alignment.

3. EfficiencyThis method can be faster than other traditional excavation systems, reducing construction times and associated costs.

Recent innovations in pipe ramming

In recent years, technological advances have greatly improved the pipe driving process. Among the most important innovations are:

• Real-time monitoringIt is now possible to follow the progress of the pipeline in real time using GPS systems or sensors to ensure that the installation is carried out accurately.

• Adjustable cutting headsSome machines allow the cutting head to be adjusted during the process to better adapt to ground conditions, which reduces downtime and increases efficiency.

• More compact equipmentSmaller machines allow installation in narrower or hard-to-reach areas, which broadens the applications of pipe ramming.