Trenchless technology continues to expand at a rapid rate, as more contractors recognize the efficiency and cost-savings that it can offer. 

To help more members understand trenchless technology, the National Utility Contractors Association (NUCA) recently released an updated Trenchless Construction and New Installation Methods manual.

“The intent of this manual is to enhance the body of knowledge in our industry about trenchless techniques,” says Doug Carlson, CEO of NUCA. “It provides a central place that provides input from utility contractors who work every day to build underground infrastructure and provide safe and successful projects. The manual’s main focus is on constructability.”

The 148-page, full-color illustrated manual carefully addresses and explains the most common trenchless installation methods. It was written by construction industry experts, describing both contractors’ and manufacturers’ perspectives with the goal to educate and guide others in choosing the best subsurface method to completing a project.

As the industry continues to grow, many contractors are adding trenchless projects to their operations. Some bid trenchless work without the proper knowledge to complete the job as specified, or their inexperience results in major project problems and costs.

Several years ago, NUCA became concerned that there is a lack of understanding of what is needed to produce successful trenchless projects from the contractors’ perspective. This manual, four years in the making, is to help utility owners and engineers specify the right trenchless method that meets their specific project needs.

In previous editions of this manual, both new installation methods and renewal methods were presented. NUCA’s Trenchless Technology Committee decided the focus of the manual’s newest fifth edition should be only on the newest trenchless installation methods.

The manual describes in-depth these trenchless methods:

• Auger boring
• Pipe jacking and utility tunneling
• Microtunneling
• Pipe ramming
• Horizontal directional drilling
• Soil compaction methods
• Direct pipe
• Pilot tube
• Pipe bursting

The manual also addresses geotechnical conditions in the use of trenchless methods, as well as safety and legal obligations.

It is available exclusively from NUCA. It can be ordered online via www.nuca.com/trenchlessmanual for $99.95 plus shipping.

About The National Utility Contractors Association

Founded in 1964, the National Utility Contractors Association represents over 1,800 U.S. utility and excavation contractors, manufacturers, and suppliers who provide the materials and workforce to build and maintain our nation’s intricate network of water, sewer, gas, telecommunications, and electric infrastructure. Visit www.nuca.com.