SINGAPORE PIPE JACKING
MICRO-TUNNELING
MINOR SEWER CONNECTION
SEWER CONSTRUCTION
PLUMBING & SANITARY SPECIALIST CONTRACTOR
GENERAL BUILDER

am engineering & consultancy pte ltd
est. 2015

What is Pipe Jacking?

Introduction of Pipe Jacking

Pipe jacking is a trenchless method used for the installation of underground pipelines or conduits without the need for open excavation. It involves pushing or jacking a prefabricated pipe through the ground from a jacking shaft to a receiving shaft, typically beneath roads, railways, buildings, or other sensitive structures. This method is widely employed in urban areas where traditional excavation methods are impractical or disruptive.

Here's a detailed explanation of the pipe jacking process:

1. Planning and Preparation: The process begins with thorough planning and site investigation to assess ground conditions, utilities, and any potential obstacles. Professional Engineers design the pipe route and determine the appropriate pipe diameter, material, and jacking force required. Design will be submitted to relevant authorities to review and obtain approval before project commencement.

2. Jacking Shaft Construction: A jacking shaft is excavated at the starting point of the pipeline route. This shaft serves as the earth retaining stabilizing structure (ERSS) and the entry point for the pipe jacking operation and houses the jacking equipment and pipe jacking bore head.

3. Receiving Shaft Construction: A receiving shaft is excavated at the endpoint of the pipeline route. This shaft serves as the exit point for the pipe and allows for the retrieval of jacking equipment. And sometimes due to site constraint and working space within the public road/area, existing public manhole will be used as receiving shaft, this will subject to Public Utilities Board (PUB) prior approval "Using existing manhole as receiving shaft".

4. Pipe Fabrication: Prefabricated pipe sections, typically made of materials such as reinforced concrete, steel, or polymer, are manufactured off-site according to project specifications. These pipes are designed to withstand the ground conditions and the jacking forces exerted during installation.

5. Jacking Operation: The pipe jacking process begins by placing the prefabricated pipe sections into the jacking shaft. A hydraulic jacking machine/rig, equipped with powerful hydraulic jacks, pushes the pipe segments sequentially into the ground. As each segment is pushed forward, additional segments are added behind it, creating a continuous pipeline.

6. Spoil Removal: Excavated soil, known as spoil, is removed from the jacking shaft through auger drill rod or slurry suction flexible tubes and transported to the surface for disposal or reuse. This process maintains a clear path for the pipe as it advances through the ground.

7. Monitoring and Control: Throughout the jacking operation, engineers monitor various parameters such as jacking force, alignment, and ground settlement to ensure the safe and accurate installation of the pipe. Adjustments may be made as needed to maintain alignment and prevent excessive ground movement. Soil monitoring instruments such as ground settlement markers, building settlement markers, prism, inclinometer, water stand tube are used during the pipe jacking operation. Automatic Tunnel Monitoring System (ATMS) will be required if the pipe jacking operation are near any Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) station/tunnels.

8. Receiving shaft using existing manhole: Once the pipe reaches the existing manhole (receiving shaft), it is retrieved and connected to the existing pipeline network or infrastructure. Connection points are sealed to prevent leaks and ensure the integrity of the pipeline system. Proper manhole benching and channel will be constructed and reinstatement of existing manhole.

9. Backfilling and Site Restoration: After the pipe is installed and connected, the jacking and receiving shafts are backfilled, and the surface is restored to its original condition. Any disruptions to roads, sidewalks, or landscaping are repaired to minimize the impact on the surrounding area.

Pipe jacking offers several advantages over traditional open-cut excavation methods, including reduced disruption to traffic and the environment, faster installation times, and lower risk of damage to existing infrastructure. It is commonly used for the installation of sewer pipelines, stormwater drains, water mains, and utility conduits in densely populated urban areas where minimizing disruptions is paramount.

Maintaining pipe jacking machines and equipment is crucial for several reasons:

1. Operational Efficiency: Regular maintenance ensures that pipe jacking machines and equipment operate at optimal efficiency. By keeping all components in good working condition, downtime due to breakdowns or malfunctions is minimized, allowing projects to proceed smoothly and on schedule.

2. Safety: Well-maintained equipment is safer to operate. Regular inspections and servicing help identify and address potential safety hazards before they escalate into serious accidents. This not only protects workers but also reduces the risk of damage to property and surrounding infrastructure.

3. Cost-Effectiveness: Investing in preventive maintenance can save money in the long run. By addressing minor issues early on, companies can avoid costly repairs or replacements down the line. Additionally, maintaining equipment helps extend its lifespan, maximizing the return on investment.

4. Quality of Work: Properly maintained equipment contributes to the quality of the work performed. Consistently functioning machinery produces more precise results, reducing the likelihood of errors or rework. This is particularly important in underground construction projects where accuracy is paramount.

5. Compliance: Many jurisdictions have regulations and standards in place governing the maintenance and operation of heavy machinery. By adhering to these requirements, companies ensure compliance with legal obligations and mitigate the risk of fines or penalties.

6. Reputation: A commitment to maintaining equipment reflects positively on a company's reputation. Clients are more likely to trust contractors who demonstrate diligence and professionalism in caring for their machinery. This can lead to repeat business and referrals, ultimately contributing to the company's success.

In summary, maintaining pipe jacking machines and equipment is essential for ensuring operational efficiency, safety, cost-effectiveness, quality of work, compliance with regulations, and a positive reputation in the industry. By prioritizing maintenance, companies can uphold standards of excellence and achieve success in their projects.