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Challenging Under-River Pipe Jacking for Water Transmission Main
Dernière affaire concernant Challenging Under-River Pipe Jacking for Water Transmission Main

Challenging Under-River Pipe Jacking for Water Transmission Main

2026-02-27
Project Background

A regional water utility company in the Middle East required installation of a critical 800mm diameter water transmission main beneath a major river, connecting two water treatment facilities. The river crossing was essential for expanding potable water supply to a rapidly developing urban area with a population exceeding 2 million residents.

Key Challenges:
  • River width: 280m crossing distance
  • Depth of installation: 15m below river bed
  • High water table and saturated soil conditions
  • Presence of boulders and rock formations in the drilling path
  • Strict environmental regulations protecting aquatic ecosystem
  • Critical timeline with limited dry season window
  • Required to maintain hydraulic pressure for water transmission
Solution: Heavy-Duty Slurry Pipe Jacking Machine with Rock Capabilities

APIE Foundation Equipment supplied our HYPERTEC HPT-800 Rock-Type Slurry Pipe Jacking Machine, engineered specifically for challenging geological conditions including mixed ground and rock formations.

Technical Implementation
Phase 1: Geological Investigation & Design
  • Comprehensive geotechnical survey including borehole sampling
  • 3D modeling of drilling path and geological layers
  • Custom cutting wheel design with disc cutters for rock formation
Phase 2: Launch Shaft & Equipment Setup
  • Construction of 7m diameter launch shaft on riverbank
  • Installation of thrust frame with 1500-tonne capacity
  • Setup of advanced slurry separation plant with environmental protection measures
Phase 3: Pipe Jacking Execution
  • Installation of 1000mm OD steel pipes with special corrosion protection
  • Average advance rate: 6-10m per day through mixed ground conditions
  • Real-time monitoring of face pressure to prevent riverbed settlement
  • Use of intermediate jacking stations to reduce friction forces
Phase 4: Reception & Testing
  • Precise breakthrough on opposite riverbank
  • Hydrostatic pressure testing of installed pipeline
  • Connection to existing water transmission network
Project Results
  • Successful Crossing: 280m river crossing completed with ±20mm alignment accuracy
  • Zero Environmental Impact: No disturbance to river ecosystem or water quality
  • Rock Formation Handling: Successfully negotiated through 85m of rock formation with boulders
  • Schedule Compliance: Project completed within 6-month timeline despite geological challenges
  • Quality Assurance: Pipeline passed all pressure tests exceeding design requirements

Client Testimonial:

“APIE’s technical team demonstrated exceptional expertise in handling our complex river crossing project. The rock-type pipe jacking machine performed beyond expectations, and the proactive problem-solving approach helped us overcome unexpected geological challenges. This project sets a new benchmark for trenchless river crossings in our region."
— Chief Engineer, Regional Water Utility Company