Microtunnelling boom gives rise to new high-tech adaptable machines, yet access to support remains key

Abstract

The next generation of microtunnelling equipment takes advantage of technology advancements in cameras, Wi-Fi, cloud servers, image enhancement and live streaming. These features provide more information about a job in realtime, and allow for adaptations to be made before a job fails. This improves outcomes on cost, environmental and efficiency measures, but needs the right support to ensure its effectiveness. Specific industry innovations in custom shape seamless steel tubes and casings have allowed significant improvement for new technologies. Another new feature we’re seeing in some machines is the ability to retract which assists in the recovery of difficult situations. Several companies are using new technology in microtunnelling to achieve faster, safer and cleaner results. This paper explores how new technology is being incorporated, and how companies are using local backup to ensure this technology remains reliable. Improvements in various technologies, plus an increase in market size, have given companies the confidence to invest in research and development of more advanced trenchless technology. The results of this R&D have seen microtunnelling equipment retain its precision quality, but increase adaptability in line with industry expectations. In a post-COVID world the need for local support, whether that be in expertise or replacement parts, is more important than ever. Import delays and travel restrictions have encouraged a number of companies to ensure Australian support is available. Overseas companies have formed partnerships with Australian entities, and Australian companies in turn have expanded their capabilities to meet local demand.

Techniques