Conduit 16 launch and receiving shafts

• Location Colorado
• Timeline2019
• Construction
  MethodsSecant piles

Scope

Michels constructed secant compression ring launch and receiving shafts for a microtunneling project. The launch shaft was comprised of 46 intersecting 1-meter diameter secant piles drilled to a depth of 54 feet. The receiving shaft was comprised of 38 intersecting 1-meter diameter piles drilled to a depth of 52 feet. The project required a shoring system below the water table in extremely permeable soil to allow Michels tunneling team to use the shafts to bore a tunnel under railroad tracks. The secant piles were drilled into a dry clay stone to seal off all water concerns. Because the secant piles are interlocked and tip out in dry clay stone, the tunneling work was completed in a dry environment.