Evaluating Productivity of Trenchless Technologies – A Simulation Based Approach

摘要

The use of trenchless technology methods for underground pipeline installation is continuing to grow asrnthese technologies can significantly minimize the social and environmental impacts related to the traditionalrnopen-trench method of conduit construction. Further, in many instances, these technologies have proven tornbe cost-effective means of new subsurface infrastructure construction. This cost-effectiveness is apparent inrnboth the direct construction costs and the reduced social costs, and increases in intangible benefits.rnThis paper analyzes and evaluates the factors that affect the productivity of microtunneling operations. Thernoperation analysis is performed using simulation. Simulation allows experimentation with costly constructionrnoperations before they are actually performed in the field. By experimenting with multiple scenarios -rnequipment, labor force and materials - the operation may be streamlined to the manager’s needs. Thernrepetitive nature and the complexity of trenchless technology operations make them ideal candidates forrnsimulation analysis. By using simulation the requirements of the operation and the relationships betweenrntheir resources can be studied in detail, thus enabling managers to make more informed decisions atrndifferent stages of the project. Through better planning and scheduling, the overall performance of a projectrncan be improved.rnSince trenchless technology operations are repetitive, small improvements in the process might lead tornconsiderable cost and/or time reductions. Based on the outputs of simulation, this paper will discuss possiblernchanges that could be effected in the microtunneling operations to enhance productivity.