Managing Water Ingress for Tunnelling Operations
In construction projects, effectively managing water ingress is vital to ensure the success of tunnelling operations. This project in Crewe involved Total Specialist Maintenance (TSM) collaborating with a piling contractor to address significant water ingress issues that were affecting the installation of a micro tunnel.
The Challenge
The piling contractor encountered serious water ingress through a secant piled wall, with running sands entering the launch pit. This situation halted the tunnelling contractor’s progress in installing their micro tunnel, creating a critical need for immediate remediation. Key challenges included:
- Managing Water Ingress: The uncontrolled water and sand ingress posed risks to both the safety and efficiency of the tunnelling operations.
- Minimising Downtime: It was essential to implement a rapid solution to allow the tunnelling contractor to resume operations without significant delays.
The Solution
TSM implemented a comprehensive injection waterproofing strategy, which involved several crucial steps:
- Drilling into the Secant Pile Wall: The process began with accessing the secant pile wall and the back of the pile wall. This step was necessary to assess the extent of the water ingress and prepare the area for effective repairs.
- Resin Injection Works: TSM carried out resin injection to effectively arrest the water ingress. By injecting a specialised waterproof resin into the secant pile wall, TSM created a barrier that prevented further water and sand from entering the launch pit.
- Filling Voids: To ensure comprehensive remediation, TSM utilised a structural geopolymer injection resin to fill any voids that had developed due to the running sands. This step reinforced the structural integrity of the piled wall and helped maintain stability during tunnelling operations.
Project Management Excellence
TSM’s project management team was instrumental in ensuring the success of the waterproofing strategy. By coordinating closely with the piling contractor and maintaining open communication, TSM effectively managed the project timeline and minimised disruptions. Regular progress updates kept all stakeholders informed and aligned on project goals.
Safety Considerations
Safety was a paramount concern throughout the project. TSM implemented rigorous safety protocols to protect workers and ensure compliance with industry standards. All team members were trained to handle equipment safely, particularly in the challenging conditions of the tunnelling environment.
Environmental Considerations
The materials used in the waterproofing process were environmentally friendly, ensuring that no harmful substances were introduced to the surrounding area. TSM’s commitment to sustainable practices reinforced the project’s alignment with best practices for environmental safety.
