Pipe jacking is the installation of man entry steel, concrete VC or Polycrete pipes using mechanical excavation and laser guidance for accuracy.
JTP Consulting personnel has been involved in pipe jacking projects over many years throughout Australia. Project sizes have varied from 900mm to 2800mm diameter in most types of ground conditions.
Depending on ground conditions, either a rotary cutter or mechanical backhoe is used to remove the material. The spoil is typically removed from the tunnel using conveyors and skips or continuous flight augers.
A steerable cutting shield is attached to the leading edge of the product pipe. Accuracy is monitored by a laser, and hydraulic rams are attached to the shield to allow steering in all directions.
Thrust is provided by hydraulic rams located in the launch shaft. The thrust forces are distributed over the circumference of the pipe by a thrust yoke, reducing the point loading of the hydraulic rams.
