If you’re considering undertaking a moling project, it’s important to understand how your site will be assessed before any prior work is carried out. Assessing a site is a crucial step in ensuring that your project will be successful and identifying any potential setbacks early can ensure that your project progresses smoothly.
Whether you have prior experience with moling or are new to the process, our experienced moling contractors are equipped to handle all necessary preparations to ensure your project’s success. Impact moling is suitable for a variety of applications including residential, commercial, and environmental projects. It is commonly used for installing utility lines, such as water, gas, and electrical cables as well as for irrigation systems, landscape lighting, and more.
For more information on understanding your options for your pipe moling project, contact our expert moling contractors at EPS Trenchless Installations.
Before any work commences, it’s important to ensure that pipe moling is the best method for the desired work to be carried out.
Both impact moling and HDD (Horizontal Directional Drilling) offer significant advantages in preserving urban areas and minimising disruption to environmentally sensitive locations. These trenchless technologies have revolutionised underground utility installations by reducing the need for extensive excavation and minimising surface disturbance. Impact moling and HDD drilling minimises disruption to the environment by requiring minimal excavation and reinstatement of pits. This method reduces noise pollution and disturbance to local wildlife, making trenchless technology a preferred choice in urban and sensitive environmental areas.
But what are the key differences?
Essentially, choosing the right method depends on project-specific factors such as distance, soil conditions, project scale, and environmental considerations. Working with experienced trenchless technology contractors ensures that projects are executed efficiently and responsibly, preserving urban areas and protecting sensitive ecosystems for future generations.
If impact moling is right for your site’s needs and objectives, ensuring success in your project begins before your moling project takes place. Proper preparation and planning are essential to mitigate risks, streamline operations, and assess limitations to achieve the desired outcomes.
It is important to consult an experienced horizontal directional drilling contractor before any of the work commences as they can provide a complete assessment.
During the moling process, two pits are typically excavated, an entry pit and a reception pit. The mole is carefully aligned in the entry pit and driven forward in a straight line. If needed, the product pipe, cable, or duct can be towed during the boring process or inserted after the borehole is completed, depending on soil stability.
The dimensions of the pits vary according to the mole size, typically ranging from 1m to 1.5m in length. The width of the pit must allow space for an operator to align the tool and launch the bore; typically, an 0.5m to 1m in width. The depth of the pits is determined by the diameter of the pipe to be installed and the depth of the ground covering it. To comply with local and national safety regulations, pits should be back-sloped or shored appropriately.
How are correct entry and exit points identified?
Before commencing any moling or directional drilling and pipe-pulling activities, it’s crucial to ensure all identified hazards and their corresponding risk control measures are communicated to the Site Person in Charge. This information is typically covered during the Method Statement Induction conducted by the Site Engineer.
Additionally, it’s important to notify all relevant authorities (if required) about the planned start of the moling or directional drilling works to ensure compliance and coordination. To prevent any equipment from being positioned directly over gas or other pipelines, careful planning of the site condition and placement is essential.
Subject to utility drawings and utility type, trial holes should be excavated along the bore path to verify the accurate alignment and depth of the service crossing – Eps will carry out a risk assessment to confirm. When dealing with gas mains or oil pipelines, these trial holes must be hand-dug directly over the pipes and deep holes should be excavated at safe distances on either side – the asset owner will advise of their requirements as this may vary for each undertaker. This meticulous process helps guarantee precise line and level alignment before any moling or drilling begins.
Impact moling should be conducted at a minimum depth of 10 times the diameter of the product pipe or 3-4 feet, whichever measurement is greater, to prevent surface damage / heave. The accuracy of the bore can be influenced by the moling speed, moling typically advancing at an average rate of 1-5 feet per minute, subject to ground conditions.
Before starting moling or directional drilling activities, EPS Trenchless Installations conducts a thorough risk assessment. This involves identifying potential hazards such as underground utilities and outlining corresponding risk control measures. The Site Engineer communicates these findings during site inductions to ensure everyone understands safety protocols and procedures. Additionally, EPS notifies relevant authorities before drilling begins to coordinate efforts and prevent interference with existing infrastructure.
The operational setup is straightforward, requiring a small air compressor and, occasionally, a mini digger for digging and reinstating pits. This dramatically reduces the environmental impacts on the surrounding areas and helps maintain the integrity of the site.
It is important to verify that all necessary tools and equipment are available and in good working order. This includes the mole itself, air compressors, hoses, tracking devices (if applicable), and any specialised tools needed for specific ground conditions. Ensure that lubrication points are checked and adequately lubricated to maintain smooth operation.
Before embarking on any impact moling project, obtaining the necessary permits and approvals is not just a formality but a critical step in ensuring compliance and successful project execution. By acquiring the appropriate permits upfront, EPS Trenchless Installations helps mitigate potential delays and legal issues during the project.
By implementing stringent health and safety measures, including rigorous training, provision of PPE, and adherence to protocols and codes of practice, project managers can significantly reduce risks and ensure the safety of personnel involved in impact moling operations.
Understanding the potential risks inherent in the process and adhering to established codes of practice are fundamental aspects of ensuring a safe working environment. This training should encompass hazard awareness, emergency procedures, and safe working practices to minimise risks during the project.
Provide appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to all personnel involved in the project. This includes but is not limited to helmets, safety glasses, gloves, and high-visibility clothing, depending on the specific hazards present on-site.
At EPS Trenchless Installations, we prioritise health and safety by implementing rigorous measures across all impact moling projects. Comprehensive training equips personnel with hazard awareness, emergency response protocols, and safe working practices.
At EPS Trenchless Installations, we pride ourselves on providing complete end-to-end moling services that prioritise safety, efficiency, and environmental stewardship. Our expert team ensures meticulous planning to deliver successful outcomes for every project. Our impact moling services not only streamline the construction process but also promote sustainable practices in underground utility installations.
Additionally, we pride ourselves on providing environmentally friendly and efficient solutions. We use minimally invasive equipment such as a small air compressor and occasionally a mini digger, which contributes to a smaller carbon footprint compared to traditional excavation methods.
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