What role do tunnels play in water supply and desalination systems?

Importance of tunnels in the water supply system

Supply systems require subway infrastructures to ensure efficient water transport without altering the urban or natural environment. Thanks to the microtunneling technologyIn this way, it is possible to make safe pipelines through complex terrain while minimizing environmental impact.

Supply tunnels in urban infrastructures

One of the Eurohinca's key projects in this sector was the construction of supply tunnels in various urban infrastructures. Thanks to directional drilling with closed shield tunnel boring machines, it has been possible to install subway pipelines without affecting the surface and guaranteeing an efficient supply.

In addition, these types of solutions have been applied in potable water and sanitation distribution networks, optimizing existing infrastructure and facilitating maintenance without the need for traffic interruptions or disruptions in densely populated areas.

Submarine outfalls and their role in water treatment

The submarine emissaries allow for the controlled and safe conveyance of treated water from treatment plants to the sea. Its microtunnel construction avoids impacts on coastal areas and improves the efficiency of the system.

According to Global Water Intelligence These systems have been key in several coastal areas to improve water quality and prevent the accumulation of waste on beaches and natural environments.

Moncofa submarine outfall

One of Eurohinca's success stories was the Submarine Outfall of Moncofawhere two microtunnels were drilled with a closed shield tunnel boring machine. The recovery of the tunnel boring machine was carried out by marine means, demonstrating the company's capacity to execute highly complex projects.

Another fundamental aspect of submarine outfalls is their ability to efficiently transport treated wastewater, reducing the impact on the marine environment. These systems have been key in several coastal areas to improve water quality and prevent the accumulation of waste on beaches and natural environments.

Microtunneling applications in water supply and sewerage networks

In addition to use in supply tunnels and subsea outfalls, microtunnels have been implemented in other key systems, such as:

• Urban infrastructure crossingsInstallation of pipelines under roads, railways and rivers without the need for open excavations.

• Distribution network extensionsAllowing the improvement of potable water and sanitation conduction capacity without affecting the existing infrastructure.

• Optimization of urban drainage systemsHelping to mitigate flood risks in cities through the installation of storm water collectors.

Benefits of tunnels in water supply and water treatment

The application of tunnels in these systems offers numerous advantages:

• Protection of water resourcesTunnels: Being underground, the tunnels protect the water from external contamination and reduce losses.

• Reduction of environmental impactReduce the alteration of the landscape and the affectation of coastal ecosystems.

• Longer service life of infrastructuresSubway systems have less wear than open pit pipelines.

• Operational efficiencyThey allow direct and safe paths for water transport, optimizing the performance of infrastructures.

In conclusion, the projects of Eurohinca in water supply and treatment demonstrate how microtunnel engineering can improve water infrastructure in a sustainable and efficient way. With an innovative and technological approach, the company continues to make a difference in the trenchless sector, guaranteeing high quality solutions with reduced environmental impact.

Thanks to its experience in the execution of supply and sanitation tunnels, Eurohinca continues to develop projects to modernize water infrastructures and ensure a secure water supply for future generations.