trenchless projects
Expansive Metro Project Will Provide Transportation Within Rapidly Developing City
On Tuesday, October 31, 2017, a 6.65 m (21.8 ft) diameter Robbins EPB TBM broke through at Chennai Metro, making this the third tunnel the machine has bored for the project and for contractor Afcons Infrastructure Ltd. The three separate bores for the EPB are part of an increasing trend, as many Robbins EPBs have been used on multiple tunnel drives with good performance. Robbins EPBs are built one third heavier than any other EPB on the market and are designed for 10,000 hours of usable life, making them ideal machines for use over many kilometers. “Robbins is known for designing resilient machines,” said Mr. Gopal Dey, Afcons Senior Manager. “For this project, we needed a machine that was specifically tailored to project conditions from soft clay to mixed ground with rock. Robbins EPB TBMs have unique design features that optimize the machine for the geology.”
After completing its original twin tunnels, the EPB was refurbished in preparation to bore its latest 1.8 km (1.1 mi) section. During refurbishment, the inner seal greasing system was changed from auto to manual mode and the foam nozzle system was modified. These changes optimized the machine for excavation in the highly variable mixed face conditions encountered in the first two tunnels.
The EPB was launched on February 3, earlier this year. According to contractor Afcons, the machine faced a major challenge right out of the gate. “When the TBM came out of the launching shaft, a few rings were erected and then the machine had to cross a live railway track, which meant there would be a possibility of ground settlement,” said Afcons Director, Mr. Manivannan. “At this stage, we had to closely monitor TBM face pressure and advance the machine at a uniform rate to ensure proper primary grouting.” The bore’s geology mainly consisted of clayey sand and about 60 meters (197 ft) of mixed ground.
“We [Afcons] chose this machine for this project due to the underground geology in Chennai, which continuously changes from soil to mixed ground,” said Mr. Dey. “We also liked that Robbins EPB machines are designed with active articulation to allow the machine to turn or steer with ease.” During active articulation, thrust cylinders react evenly against the entire circumference of the tunnel lining, even in a curve—a design that eliminates the problem of tunnel lining deformation. “This feature enabled the machine to negotiate through well-controlled conditions,” added Mr. Manivannan.
With all three tunnels, Robbins Field Service members were on location to assist and support as required. During the course of each bore, Robbins was there to advise Afcons on how best to maneuver through challenging ground and provide instruction for machine operation. The ability of the contractor and manufacturer to work well together, as Robbins and Afcons have throughout their contracts, was critical to the good advance rates. The result was a robust machine that advanced at rates of 80 mm (3 in) per minute in challenging conditions.
This latest tunnel connects multiple stations along the metro line, starting from Washermenpet through to Sir Theagaraya and to Kurukpet. The Chennai Metro Project will provide much needed transportation to a rapidly developing city.
Image 1: On Tuesday, October 31, 2017 a 6.65 m (21.8 ft) Robbins EPB made its third breakthrough at India’s Chennai Metro.
Image 2: Robbins and contractor Afcons celebrate the breakthrough and good performance of the EPB, which achieved rates up to 80 mm (3 in) per minute in mixed ground conditions.
Desiree Willis
Technical Writer
Email: willisd@robbinstbm.com
Direct: 253.872.4490
The Robbins Company
Blog, Industry News
Delivering Outstanding Lifting and Hydraulic Performances
PELLA, Iowa, November 1, 2017 – Vermeer has expanded its compact equipment lineup with the new S925TX mini skid steer, designed to provide impressive lifting performance and the power to conquer the most demanding applications.
With a tip capacity of 2,643 pounds (1,198.8 kg), a rated operating capacity of 925 pounds (419.6 kg) and maximum hinge pin height reach of 84.5 inches (214.6 cm), the radial lift path of the Vermeer S925TX makes easy work of lifting and dumping heavy loads.
The new mini skid steer features a dual auxiliary system which allows the operator to switch between high flow for ground-engaging attachments and low flow for maximum control. It is also equipped with a universal mounting plate that fits a broad range of Vermeer-approved attachments.
“From landscaping and tree care to rental operations, contractors are discovering that Vermeer mini skid steers can increase their daily productivity,” said Jon Kuyers, senior global products manager at Vermeer. “With the S925TX model, we’ve designed a machine that can deliver a higher lifting performance than most other machines in the compact utility loader segment while still maintaining a compact size and impressive hydraulic attachment wielding performance.”
The new Vermeer S925TX mini skid steer is offered in three smooth-running, high-torque, four-cylinder engine options, including a 24.8 hp (18.2 kW) Kubota V1505 diesel engine, a 40 hp (29.8 kW) Kubota WG1605 gas engine and the 35.1 hp (26.2 kW) Kubota V1505 diesel engine offered only for international markets. Contractors can further customize their mini skid steer loader with either 7-inch (17.8 cm) wide tracks that produce 5 psi (.4 bar) of ground pressure or 9-inch (22.9 cm) wide tracks with 4 psi (.3 bar) of ground pressure for even better floatation.
The S925TX mini skid steer has a travel speed of 4.1 mph (6.6 km/h). Like other Vermeer mini skid steers, the S925TX is built with a chariot-style platform for optimum operator comfort, and pilot-operated ground drive to help the user maintain smooth control on the jobsite, as well as in tight areas.
The Vermeer S925TX is backed by a three-year/3000-hour extended limited warranty on the mainframe and loader arms for even more assurance and piece-of-mind on the job.
For more information about the Vermeer S925TX mini skid steer, contact your local Vermeer dealer or visit Vermeer.com.
Industry News, trenchless people
BTE has an immediate opening for a full time professional in its Folsom, CA office. BTE provides stimulating, professional challenges, professional development opportunities, competitive compensation and benefits. BTE is a specialty consulting engineering firm located in Folsom, CA that has spent over 20 years focusing 100% on the design of pipeline projects using trenchless construction methods. Trenchless construction involves installation of utility pipelines using various tunneling and boring methods to limit impacts to sensitive features, such as roads, waterways, and existing structures. The firm specializes in all aspects of design, including feasibility studies, full design services, and construction management services. The candidate will work in the Folsom office and at various project field locations.
Position Description:
Associate engineer
Assist in trenchless design, including writing technical specifications, technical memoranda, preparing and editing drawings, conducting design calculations
Prepare correspondence, participate in meetings with clients
Site meetings and inspection
Up to 25% travel
Required Qualifications:
B.S./M.S. in Civil/Geotechnical/Mechanical Engineering
Proficient with Microsoft Office
Geotechnical engineering experience/competence an important plus
FE/PE a plus
Proficiency in AutoCAD a plus
Compensation Package:
Highly competitive pay, commensurate with degree/experience
Signing bonus/relocation expense reimbursement
Health and dental benefits
Vacation and sick leave, family leave
Profit sharing
Simple IRA employer matching
Strong professional development opportunities
Applications should include the following information:
Cover Letter
Resume
Transcript(s)
Professional Reference(s)
Address application packages to: Dave.Bennett@BennettTrenchless.com
950 Glenn Drive, Suite 115 Folsom, CA 95630
www.BennettTrenchless.com
Industry News, trenchless products
GSSI, the world’s leading manufacturer of ground penetrating radar (GPR) equipment, announces the availability of a new accessory for the industry standard StructureScan Mini XT. The Palm XT is a miniaturized GPR antenna that is designed to greatly enhance the capabilities of the StructureScan™ Mini XT all-in-one GPR concrete inspection system. The handheld Palm XT antenna turns a basic StructureScan Mini XT into an advanced system by giving users unparalleled access in tightly spaced areas and enabling overhead scanning. Designed to withstand challenging construction sites, the Palm XT is an excellent choice for contractors who need to perform concrete scanning and utility locating services.
The 2300 MHz Palm XT antenna offers superior depth penetration and resolution. It features full keypad control via the antenna top that allows for remote control of the user interface. The antenna has seamless software integration and provides users with three data collection modes; standard, cross polarization, and side car. Standard mode requires no special set up, and is ready for plug-and-play operation. Cross polarization mode highlights non-metallic objects, such as PVC, and deemphasizes metallic objects like rebar and wire mesh. Side car mode transitions the survey wheel to the side of the antenna and allows it to fit into smaller spaces.
Rugged, compact, and flexible, StructureScan Mini XT is ideal for locating rebar, conduits, post-tension cables, and voids. The Mini XT can help identify structural elements, including pan deck and concrete cover, and can also provide real time determination of concrete slab thickness. StructureScan Mini XT is the perfect blend of price and performance, and is backed by a two-year warranty. Additional accessories for the StructureScan Mini XT include an extension handle with control button options, and the LineTrac XT. The LineTrac XT adds the ability to detect AC power and induced RF energy present in conduits.
For more information on the Palm XT antenna, visit www.geophysical.com.
About GSSI
Geophysical Survey Systems, Inc. is the world leader in the development, manufacture, and sale of ground penetrating radar (GPR) equipment, primarily for the concrete inspection, utility mapping and locating, road and bridge deck evaluation, geophysics, and archaeology markets. Our equipment is used all over the world to explore the subsurface of the earth and to inspect infrastructure systems non-destructively. GSSI created the first commercial GPR system over 45 years ago and continues to provide the widest range and highest quality GPR equipment available today.
Industry News, trenchless people
Purdue welcomes Dan Liotti of Midwest Mole!
The first NASTT Purdue Student Chapter guest lecture for the 2017-2018 academic year was held on October 19. The guest speaker was Dan Liotti, CEO of Midwest Mole, Inc., who is a Purdue alumnus and the 2015 Trenchless Technology Person of the Year.
The lecture was titled “Trenchless Installation Methods”. The speaker gave a brief review of Auger Boring, Guided Boring, Pipe Jacking, Utility Tunneling and EPB Tunneling. The event also included a discussion with Mr. Liotti about job opportunities in the trenchless market. More than thirty students attended the event.
For more information about NASTT’s Student Chapters, contact NASTT Membership Administrator, Renee Corea.
Industry News
Full-function remote control provides outstanding maneuverability
PELLA, Iowa, October 9, 2017 – The new Vermeer SPX25 vibratory plow is designed for fast and efficient cable/fiber and irrigation system installation. It features a full-function remote control that gives the operator a 360-degree view of the jobsite, helping to avoid potential obstacles and an unobstructed view of the product being installed. The SPX25 vibratory plow is compact, powerful and built with tracks to minimize ground disturbance.
“For applications like installing cable or fiber-to-the-home, contractors can face several challenges like narrow gates, fences and common backyard obstacles,” explained Ed Savage, product manager at Vermeer. “The SPX25 plow minimizes those concerns. We’ve eliminated the need for operators to run the machine from behind, which means they can stand in whatever location gives them the best view. This design has also allowed us to make the plow even more compact for excellent performance in tight areas.”
The Vermeer SPX25 vibratory plow is powered by a 25 hp (18.6 kW) Kohler gas engine that provides ample power for installing small pipes and cables at depths up to 12 inches (30.5 cm) and for boring underneath driveways and sidewalks using the optional Porta Bore attachment. The dual rubber tracks with a ground pressure of 3.7 psi (.3 bar) on the Vermeer SPX25 plow delivers great floatation in soft ground conditions and helps reduce jobsite restoration after an install. The lightweight plow offers a quick transport speed of 3.7 mph (6 km/h).
For efficient turning, while installing utilities around obstacles, the SPX25 unit is equipped with a pivot-mounted plow that has a 55-degree swing angle that automatically adjusts when turning.
An optional reel carrier can be mounted to the machine, helping to reduce the amount of jobsite equipment and labor needed on the jobsite. Contractors also have the option of adding a weight kit for added traction when working in hard ground conditions.
For more information about the Vermeer SPX25 vibratory plow, visit Vermeer.com or contact your local Vermeer dealer.
ABOUT VERMEER
Vermeer Corporation delivers a real impact in a progressing world through the manufacture of high-quality tree care, environmental, underground construction, surface mining, and agricultural equipment. With a reputation for durability and reliability, that equipment is backed by localized customer service and support provided by independent dealers around the world. To learn more about Vermeer Corporation, products, the dealer network and financing options, visit Vermeer.com.
Industry News, trenchless people
GSSI, the world’s leading manufacturer of ground penetrating radar (GPR) equipment, offers comprehensive training programs for new and existing customers on how to use GSSI equipment safely and effectively in the field. Classes are available for the complete range of GSSI products and is conducted by a team of four full time trainers.
The majority of GSSI’s training classes are taught at its headquarters in Nashua, New Hampshire. This facility has two classrooms equipped with computers for students to use and two hands on training areas featuring an indoor utility test pit. For customers located on the West Coast, GSSI offers classes six weeks a year in Henderson, Nevada. All of the classes are complimentary during the initial two year warranty period and can be taken for a fee if students haven’t purchased equipment or are outside of the warranty period. Classes in Nashua and Henderson range from one to three days depending on the particular class.
In addition to the regularly scheduled classes in Nashua and Henderson, GSSI offers live online webinars and on-site training for customers who cannot travel to attend a class. On-site training classes are provided at a customer’s facility upon request and can be customized or cover the standard material.
Most classes are geared towards the basic learner, but advanced classes are available for those who have at least six months of experience working with the equipment. Training courses generally require no prerequisites, no prior experience with the equipment or technology. GSSI trainers are skilled at teaching users of all educational and skill levels. For advanced users and those looking to drill deeply into the technology, GSSI can add any additional training or engineering resource.
“GSSI has invested a tremendous amount of time and money into developing a superior training program. GSSI focuses on partnering with its customer to make sure they are successful and training is an important part of that partnership,” said Dan Welch, GSSI Training Manager.
The class schedule is posted on the GSSI website so students can select the class and date that meets their needs. Popular offerings include classes on BridgeScan, RADAN 7, RoadScan, StructureScan Mini XT, StructureScan Pro and UtilityScan.
For more information on the GSSI training program, visit http://www.geophysical.com/training.htm.
trenchless people
THOMPSON, CONNECTICUT USA, October 4, 2017:
Numa, the world’s leading drilling technology provider, is proud to announce the promotion of industry veteran Neal Kuszewski to Vice President of Sales. Neal’s new responsibilities include strategic management of Numa’s sales programs and initiatives, as well as day-to-day sales operations in the United States and International markets.
Throughout his career, Neal has played an integral role in positioning Numa as a key global competitor in a highly challenging and dynamic industry. He leads a team of eight regional managers who have successfully increased the company’s penetration and influence in eleven different industries covering over 100 countries. He also assumes a lead role assembling and growing a network of distributors.
“In his previous position as Sales Manager, Neal exhibited the personal dedication and business leadership skills necessary for his new role,” said Ralph Leonard, President of Numa. “As VP of Sales, Neal will ensure that Numa continues to work closely with prospects and customers to design the right solutions to demanding drilling applications, provide an exceptional level of customer service and deliver timely technical support.”
Neal has accrued over three decades of service with Numa, advancing from an initial role as a CNC Machine Operator through multiple promotions. Prior to his current role, Neal has held positions as the Global Sales Manager, Domestic Sales Manager, Product Engineering Technician, multiple supervisory roles in production, and as a Field Technician, providing him with a breadth and depth of knowledge in company products and operations that is unparalleled.
ABOUT NUMA
Numa provides the world’s leading drilling technology with over 110 DTH Hammer and Bit products serving 11 different industries. Our products are designed to drill vertical, horizontal, and reverse circulation holes from 3½ to 48 inches (89 – 1219 mm) in diameter in hard rock, overburden, or loose strata formations. Having customers in 105+ countries, we have built our customer-centric reputation on providing the highest value in products, performance, and personal service available in the rock drilling industry.
Industry News, trenchless projects
SANTA CRUZ ACCOMPLISHES EMERGENCY HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL DRILL FOR
LOMBARDI GULCH CROSSING
HDD provides a rapid and reliable way to replace aging steel pipeline
Overview
The City of Santa Cruz Water Department (SCWD) has long anticipated the need to assess, design and build a new pipeline system as part of the existing North Coast System (NCS) which delivers raw water to their water treatment plant. The existing NCS is a series of stream diversion structures and collection
conduits and includes approximately 16 miles of pipelines that are nearing, or have exceeded, their design life and must be replaced. The replacement pipeline is a series of phased projects and will provide a water delivery system that will be reliable for the next fifty years or more.
Phase 3 of the overall initiative included the replacement of 18,600 feet of primarily 24-inch diameter pipe using open cut methodology. Additionally, five trenchless crossings, one horizontal directional drill (HDD) crossing under sensitive environmental habitats and four horizontal auger bores crossing under California Department of Transportation and railroad right-of-ways were included in Phase 3.
In 2015, this phase of the NCS project had been designed but had not gone out to bid when a failure of a 1,200-foot critical section of the existing steel pipeline at the Lombardi Creek Crossing location prompted SCWD to schedule that section for immediate replacement. Site conditions at this location required replacing the pipeline using HDD installation methodology. Its location within the Wilder Ranch State Park elevated environmental concerns because the park has strong biological, scenic, cultural and recreational values.
The replacement of the Lombardi Creek crossing began in late 2015 after selecting the HDD Company from Granite Bay, California to be the contractor. The actual drill alignment length was approximately 1,300 feet with an elevation change of approximately 60 feet. Entry and exit angles were approximately 10 degrees. The final alignment was 25 feet below the bottom of the creek. 24-inch DR 18 Fusible PVC®
pipe was selected as the replacement pipe. Overall, the drill alignment and bore preparation took four weeks. While the bore hole was being drilled and reamed, the Fusible PVC® pipe was fused by Underground Solutions. Once the bore hole was prepared, the Fusible PVC® pipe was pulled into place,
a process that took approximately 8 hours. The replacement project took two months from mobilization to pressure test and the replacement pipe was placed into service after completion. This new segment will be tied into the new NCS Phase 3 pipeline when it is complete.
Project Manager Kevin Crossly stated, “The Lombardi Gulch HDD Undercrossing is the largest and longest installation of Fusible PVC® pipe to date for the City of Santa Cruz. The City was very pleased during all phases of the project with Underground Solutions which provided technical support solutions during design of the project. When the City experienced the 0.5 MGD leak and fast tracked the construction phase, Underground Solutions was responsive to the project requirements to secure, fabricate, deliver and fuse the 1,300 LF of pipe that was ultimately installed on a very aggressive schedule of approximately eight weeks. Fusible PVC® pipe is a great product that Underground Solutions will support and stand behind. We will definitely consider using Fusible PVC® pipe on future projects.”
Industry News, trenchless people, trenchless products
Vac-Tron Equipment is excited to introduce Empire CAT as their new Arizona dealer. Vac-Tron partnered with Empire because they share the same common core values and beliefs. “This was a perfect fit and we are honored to have Empire CAT representing our product line.” Brian Showley, VP Vac-Tron Equipment.
“We wanted to partner with a company that shared similar strategies within the markets we serve. Vac-Tron is an industry leader in vacuum excavation and their equipment lends itself to the same clientele that we serve with our excavation lines from Caterpillar. Empire CAT is always looking for ways to offer our customers safer and more efficient products and our partnership with Vac-Tron brings a new level of safety to the jobsite.” Michael Rodoni, Rental Manager for Empire CAT
Empire Southwest, LLC is a third-generation family-owned Caterpillar dealership. Founded in 1950 by Jack Whiteman, Empire sells, rents, and services heavy equipment, tractors, and power generation equipment to contractors throughout Arizona.
Empire is:
- Committed to meeting the needs and supporting the success of clients throughout the mining, agriculture, and construction industries.
- Proud of our business culture, which was built on the Corporate Values of Safety, Respect, Integrity, Teamwork, Excellence, Stewardship, and Astonishment.
- Dedicated to the success of our clients and the communities we serve.
- Committed to building and maintaining solid business partnerships.
For more information on Empire CAT, please visit www.empire-cat.com.
For more information on Vac-Tron Equipment or to schedule a FREE demo, please visit www.vactron.com or call 1-888-VAC-TRON.
On Tuesday, October 31, 2017, a 6.65 m (21.8 ft) diameter Robbins EPB TBM broke through at Chennai Metro, making this the third tunnel the machine has bored for the project and for contractor Afcons Infrastructure Ltd. The three separate bores for the EPB are part of an increasing trend, as many Robbins EPBs have been used on multiple tunnel drives with good performance. Robbins EPBs are built one third heavier than any other EPB on the market and are designed for 10,000 hours of usable life, making them ideal machines for use over many kilometers. “Robbins is known for designing resilient machines,” said Mr. Gopal Dey, Afcons Senior Manager. “For this project, we needed a machine that was specifically tailored to project conditions from soft clay to mixed ground with rock. Robbins EPB TBMs have unique design features that optimize the machine for the geology.”
“We [Afcons] chose this machine for this project due to the underground geology in Chennai, which continuously changes from soil to mixed ground,” said Mr. Dey. “We also liked that Robbins EPB machines are designed with active articulation to allow the machine to turn or steer with ease.” During active articulation, thrust cylinders react evenly against the entire circumference of the tunnel lining, even in a curve—a design that eliminates the problem of tunnel lining deformation. “This feature enabled the machine to negotiate through well-controlled conditions,” added Mr. Manivannan.
