Crossing the Calumet: Complications and Logistics for the Execution of a Horizontal Curve during a 36-inch Direct Pipe? Installation

摘要

In the fall of 2017, Michels Corporation completed the trenchless installation of a 1,500-foot, 36-inch diameter product pipe underneath the Calumet River south of Chicago, IL. Due to existing infrastructure along the river, the geotechnical conditions in the area, and the sensitive nature of the Calumet River’s ecosystem, a Direct Pipe? installation with nearly a 10 degree horizontal curve proved to be best.The following case study will explain the original feasibility investigation of the trenchless installation, the parameters put forth upon completion of the investigation, the challenges that arose from the given parameters, the engineered systems that were put in place to overcome the challenges, and the project’s overall execution. With the help of all parties involved, Michels was capable of pushing an emerging technology to new limits by designing and implementing a horizontal curve for a 1500-foot, 36-inch diameter, Direct Pipe? installation underneath of one of Chicago’s historic rivers.