Installing pre-fabricated pipe in one step

Direct Pipe® is an emerging trenchless technique Michels has used since it was introduced in the United States in 2011. Direct Pipe® combines a powerful thruster with a steerable microtunnel boring machine - or MTBM - to install a prefabricated utility line with a continuously supported borehole.

Direct Pipe® is a single-pass method that combines the best of horizontal directional drilling and microtunneling. After a microtunnel boring machine coupled with the pre-welded and pre-inspected pipe is launched from the surface or a shallow pit, we use tooling to track orientation and location. The information is transmitted back to the control container, where our operators make necessary adjustments as the machine and pipe are carefully thrust along the alignment with up to 750 tons of force.

Direct Pipe® is suitable to install pipes with diameters between 30 and 60 inches and to lengths of more than 4,000 feet. Depending on job site logistics, the pipe can be installed in long, pre-welded sections or individual joints.

Direct Pipe® installation method is an appealing option for crossings under water bodies, levees, rail tracks, roads and underground utilities and in urban areas.

Benefits of Direct Pipe® Installation:

• Suitable in urban areas or where a small footprint is required
• One-pass pipe installation
• Ideal for sensitive crossings including levees and railways
• Launched from a shallow shaft or surface
• Accurately steered to navigate a precise route
• Uses significantly less bentonite
• Product host pipes include water, sewer, electric and oil and gas