The pipe ramming is a subway installation technique that allows pipes to be driven into the ground without resorting to large-scale excavation. It is carried out using remote-controlled equipment that pushes the pipe through the ground, taking advantage of both the natural ground pressure and the precision of specialized machinery. This process begins with an exhaustive geotechnical study, in which the characteristics of the soil, its density, composition and any variable that may influence the progress of the pipeline are evaluated. These data allow the establishment of specific parameters to guarantee an adequate installation.
During operation, digitally controlled equipment is used to monitor pipe feed, angle and alignment in real time. Automated control systems ensure that the pipe is inserted homogeneously and without significant deviations, which is essential for the connection of utility networks such as water, sewer and gas. The precision of this method translates into a highly controlled execution and reduced risks associated with the work, both for the operators and for the surrounding infrastructure.
The technique not only reduces the size of excavations, limiting the impact on the surface, but also minimizes disruptions to urban activity by avoiding large trenches in busy areas. In addition, installation is performed continuously, allowing for greater efficiency in the use of resources and time, optimizing the construction process compared to more invasive methods. Ground conditions are constantly monitored during the push, allowing adjustments to be made on the fly and to adapt to unexpected variations in the local geology.