Boring a 530 metre-long, 2.15 metre-wide microtunnel in one of the hardest and most abrasive rocks calls for the highest levels of vigilance. Add to that a 26-metre height difference between the entry and exit points as well as a crossing both a river and the busy Paris – Brest railway line.
The extreme complexity of the gas pipe project in Brittany called for expert advice and hands-on assistance both prior to and during microtunnelling operations. Contracted by SADE TS, OPTIMUM engineers reworked the geotechnical aspects of the project to ensure complete alignment with geological conditions onsite. Daily monitoring of the boring operations allowed for progress rates to be maintained and safeguarded against technical risks such as tunnel narrowing, fluid dispersion or excessive wear on the cutting tools.
The microtunnel is now complete, excellent teamwork throughout.
