Trenchless technology vs open trench methodology : implementation in South Africa's construction industry

Abstract

Trenchless Technology is the term for the implementation of methods for the installation of new pipeline services or the rehabilitation of existing networks without the use of open trench pipeline excavation or limited disturbance within the surface of the earth. Trenchless Technology is a guided drilling process that forms an arc in a straight profile underneath the ground surface. The guided drilling is performed with a variety of machines and equipment. The drilling process can replace or install service lines under existing structures, urbanised areas, roadways and natural water sources. The term mostly refers to these methods being implemented in a horizontal direction.

Trenchless Technology is known for reaching great lengths and allows for the installation of a variety of different pipeline material. The advancement of this field has led to the installation of bigger diameter service lines and increasing the overall completion programme of construction and civil engineering projects.

The purpose of the study is to analyse the comparison between Trenchless Technology and the Traditional Open Trench Method within the construction industry of South Africa. The study further examines the financial viability of implementing Trenchless Technology as an alternative to the traditional method for the installation of new service lines or the rehabilitation or repair thereof. The literature review is based on the limited amount of information available for the Trenchless Technology field within South Africa. It examines the advantages and disadvantages between the two methods and attempts to clarify the unfamiliarity and develop a broader availability of information for these methods. It aims to inform the potential of Trenchless Technology and the implementation of this method within our country, especially within the public sector. The empirical study examines the financial viability of the method.