29 January 2009
Advanced stormwater pipe installation technology will be trialled in Cambridge next month.
Traditionally, a large deep trench is dug and pipe pieces are fitted together before being placed and connected to necessary fittings. However the new technology means only a single hole will be bored before the entire pipe is floated down the Waikato River, pulled back up the hole then connected.
The challenge in this job is the length and size of the pipe that is being drilled (155 metres in length, 710 millimetres in diameter) and the very steep river banks.
The new pipe will be made from polyethelene and will stretch from Lindsay Reserve to the Waikato River (under Pope Terrace), about 20 metres underground.
WDC Engineering Manager John Kerr says the new pipe will solve long-standing flooding issues and is expected to give many years of service to the community.
“Growth has meant that our stormwater pipes are not meeting capacity needs, which often leads to surface flooding. This is the first stage of a two stage project, we will be looking at further pipework in Byron St next year.”
The 200 tonne capacity machine that will be used to lay the new pipe has a range of benefits.
“It’s a specialist piece of equipment that is used on major projects, and is the largest in Australasia. By using this ‘trenchless technology’ the impact on the environment is minimal and the need for earth moving equipment is avoided. It also means you can install the pipe into steep terrain, maximising safety and making it very cost effective.” says Mr Kerr.
Work will begin in mid February and run for approximately 8 weeks. During this time part of Lindsay Reserve will be cordoned off and their will be some machinery noise, although dust nuisance is expected to be minimal. The project is being completed by Smythe Contractors.
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