Microtunneling is a trenchless, remotely-controlled construction method that is increasingly being used to install pipelines beneath highways, railroads, runways, harbors, rivers, and environmentally sensitive areas. It is less disruptive during construction, and improvements to technology have made it better at handling a multitude of ground conditions.
Trenchless Technology magazine recently interviewed GHD’s Craig Camp, Tunneling and Trenchless Manager in San Diego, California, about the growing microtunneling market and his personal experiences over the last 25 years.
In the interview, Craig reflected on how the industry has evolved, including an increase in competition and technological changes, such as the size of machines, the use of curved drives, and improved guidance systems. He also discussed trends that are impacting the market and gave some thoughts on how the microtunneling market could be improved.
In the article, Craig noted, “One element that limits the local market is the low bid mentality. With underground construction, it is crucial to use the right technology, but that can come at a higher initial cost. However, I have seen projects with change orders that are greater than the cost of the tunnel. Let that serve as an example – the initial cost should not be the focus. The focus should be on implementing the right technology, coupled with engaging the right contractor and experienced personnel.”
He also cautions, “Some people think the microtunneling technology to build a tunnel is a silver bullet, but contrary to popular belief, it’s not. Microtunneling has its strengths and weaknesses, and there are other methods that prove more efficient for some ground conditions. Hence, why those methods are still around today. A misconception has been because microtunneling is being applied, no issues will arise. False.”
Read the original interview online at Trenchless Technology or Tunnel Business Magazine.
Meet Craig
Craig has over 38 years of experience in underground construction, encompassing all phases of microtunneling and other trenchless construction methods, including conceptual design reviews, preliminary design reports based on anticipated ground conditions, production estimates, specification reviews, drawing reviews, geotechnical baseline report (GBR) reviews, project cost estimation, and resolution of project issues. He has been involved in over 100 trenchless construction projects, installing over 250,000 feet of pipelines throughout North America, including Miami International Airport in Florida, JFK International Airport in New York, Nimitz Reconstructed Sewer in Hawaii, and Novelty Hill Sewer in Washington.
To learn more, contact Craig at craig.camp@ghd.com.