Trenchless Breakthrough Technologies: How they changed the industry and continue to influence the future

摘要

Since the term trenchless technology was conceived in the mid-1980's, there have been numerous innovations that have advanced the industry and provide the benefit of minimal disruptive construction for utilities and pipelines. The authors have been fortunate to participate in this progress and will offer their unique perspectives on these achievements. The paper will describe the key breakthroughs in all types of trenchless methods and who were the people and businesses that made these contributions. It will include a look back over the last 25 plus years and a look forward on how the past innovations will lead us to the next generation of new technologies and equipment. The paper will also analyze the lessons learned and how they can be applied to create new achievements.Developments in horizontal directional drilling, microtunneling and pipeline rehabilitation will be discussed along with the many businesses and institutions that contributed and continue to influence the trenchless industry. The impact of each achievement will be illustrated and the roles that the innovators played.