Drainage pipe installation at the Puentes Viejas Dam

Eurohinca has carried out a drainage pipe installation project at Puentes Viejas Damoptimizing the regulation capacity of the reservoir by means of an excavation in 10% slope driving. For this purpose, the Hydroshield DN2000 tunnel boring machineThe new system ensures precise drilling in cyclopean concrete without compromising the structure of the dam.

Location and context of the project

The Puentes Viejas Dam is a key infrastructure in the region's water management, so any intervention must guarantee the maximum safety and stability. The work consisted of the installation of a subway conduit for the evacuation of bottom water, ensuring better flow control and optimizing the dam's operation.

Characteristics of the work

Construction method: Hydroshield DN2000 remote-controlled thruster
Total length of the tunnel: 42 meters
Pending drilling: 10%
Type of dam: Cyclopean concrete
Geology of the terrain: Cemented rocks and structures
Environment: Hydraulic infrastructure with high technical requirements

Technical challenges

The main challenge of the project was the drilling in cyclopean concretea highly resistant material that required a controlled excavation with a high precision driving system. In addition, the work had to be carried out without affecting the stability of the dam or its operability, guaranteeing maximum structural safety.

Another challenge was the pending 10%This required rigorous control of the borehole trajectory to avoid deviations and ensure correct alignment of the drainage conduit.

Solutions implemented

To overcome these challenges, Eurohinca implemented the following strategies:
✔️ Use of Hydroshield DN2000 tunnel boring machineideal for drilling in high-strength materials.
✔️ Guidance and continuous monitoring systemsensuring precise alignment of the borehole.
✔️ Trenchless drilling techniquesThe impact on the existing infrastructure will be minimized.
✔️ Coordination with water authoritiesThe work can be carried out without affecting the reservoir's operation.

Results and benefits

The project was successfully completed on schedule, allowing the installation of drainage without compromising the structural safety of the dam. The excavation was carried out with minimum impact on the dam and the environmentThe water flow regulation is optimized and the efficiency of the reservoir is improved.

This project is an example of how the remote-controlled pile driving enables modernization of hydraulic infrastructuresThis facilitates the installation of evacuation systems without affecting the integrity of dams and reservoirs.

References of executed works

In Eurohinca we are specialists in the execution of tunnels for pipelines with tunnel boring machines. Since its foundation in 1996 Eurohinca has executed different types of works:

International Experience