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Definition, Functions, Strengths and Weaknesses of Microtunneling

January 6, 2022
Posted by: Tohoma Mandiri

For those of you who are already involved in the construction world, you must be familiar with this term. Microtunneling is often applied when you want to build tunnels or the like using a drilling machine. At this time it will be discussed in full regarding the meaning, function, way of working, advantages, and disadvantages of the process. So, please refer to the following explanation.

The Definition of Microtunneling

Micro tunneling is the process of building a small tunnel using a drilling machine. Usually, this process will be combined using a pipe jacking technique to install pipes underground. In first, 1979 the Tunnel Drilling Machine (MBT) was first developed by Japan. Then, in the next few years, the machine gets developed from Germany.

In principle, micro tunneling will be controlled with a remote control with the help of earth pressure and a computer. This process was first used to replace open drains in urban areas using gravity pipes underground. The micro tunneling method is one of the solutions to do this, so it continues to be used today.

Although at first it was only used for water pipe construction, now it is really experiencing development. Call it subway crossings, runways, rivers, freeways, and much more. In fact, some people consider micro tunneling to be the most accurate method when it comes to installing pipes.

Functions and How It Works

In general, the function of the micro tunneling method is to build small tunnels. The making of this tunnel uses a drilling machine or often called a Microtunnel Boring Machine and a combination of pipe jacking techniques to install pipes into the ground. It is intended that all processes can be installed in just one driving.

When compared to doing open excavation, of course, this method is considered safer. Open excavation is indeed very prone to risks, especially when it is related to weather conditions or soil structure. Until now, micro tunneling has been used in the installation of various pipe sizes, ranging from 20 cm to 3 meters. Therefore, the construction of waterways in flood-prone areas also often uses this technique.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Microtunneling

This system has the advantage of being very effective and efficient. This is because the operation does not require workers in the field, but only uses the remote control. However, the accuracy of this method is also very good, so it is very suitable for installing pipes far from the surface of the water.

On the other side, there are also disadvantages. The drilling process requires accurate and very detailed geological data. If something goes wrong in these details, the results can be disastrous in development.

So a little explanation about micro tunneling. One thing that must be underlined here is that this process requires very high precision, so if you are looking for these services, you really have to come from a trusted and quality company, one example of which is Tohoma Mandiri. You can see further information on the website www.tohoma.co.id.