Impact moling is a trenchless technology typically used for the installation of small-diameter pipework without the need for extensive excavation. Instead of removing soil using traditional methods, a pneumatic tool compacts and displaces it, creating a bore for installing pipeline.
Image courtesy: Tracto-Technik GmbH & Co KG
At EPS Trenchless Installations, we’re industry leaders in innovative solutions for laying and replacing underground pipes, ducts and cables. Our cutting-edge technology avoids open trenching, reducing labour and restoration costs associated with this outdated method. Equally, our commitment to precision and efficiency ensures that each impact moling project undertaken is completed on time, within budget, and with minimal environmental impact.
For more about moling meaning and exactly how this method works, see below. We also look at the applications and advantages of impact moling, plus the pros and cons of this technique.
If you have any specific questions or queries, please get in touch.
For further detail on ‘What is Moling and How Does this Work?’ read on ➡
In the context of underground pipework installation, impact moling refers to the method used for installing pipes, cables, or ducts below the surface without the need for open trench excavation. It involves using a pneumatically driven hammer, or mole, to create a borehole by displacing soil as it moves forward through the ground. This trenchless technique is commonly used for installing water pipes, gas lines, and electricity or telecommunications cables.
During the impact moling process, two pits are typically excavated, a launch pit and reception pit. The mole is carefully aligned in the entry pit and driven forward in a straight line towards the reception pit. If needed, the product pipe, duct, or cable can be towed during the boring process or inserted after the borehole is completed, depending on the soil stability.
Image courtesy: Tracto-Technik GmbH & Co KG
Impact moling is widely used for the installation of various utility connections, including water and gas lines, or ducting for electricity and telecoms cables. This technique is also commonly used to pull in replacement pipelines. Depending on the pipe material and ground conditions, impact moling pulling in replacement pipe can be employed using one of two methods:
Pilot Bore & Pull-In Method
Direct Pull-In Method
Impact moling is not usually used for pipe bursting, which works well for larger-diameter pipes, but it can be part of the process in certain situations. If replacing an old, brittle pipe, a pipe-splitting head or expander can be attached behind the mole. The old pipe is fractured or pushed outward while the new pipe is pulled in. In most cases, impact moling is for pipes up to 125mm in diameter, although this method is mostly used for pipes between 25mm and 63mm.
As a trenchless method of laying underground pipelines, moling is renowned for its simplicity, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Indeed, when it comes to reducing costs compared to traditional trench digging, this gives impact moling meaning in significant monetary terms. No more costly digging means less disruption to the public and lower operational costs, where this form of trenchless technology has revolutionised underground utility installations.
Overall, the advantages of impact moling include being:
Section 58 of the New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (NRSWA) imposes restrictions on utility companies and other contractors from carrying out certain works on newly constructed or recently resurfaced roads. This is to limit the amount of disruption to these roads for a set period after their completion so as to protect the road’s integrity. Importantly, impact moling can be delivered on such a small scale that it doesn’t significantly impact the area around it.
Images courtesy: Tracto-Technik GmbH & Co KG
Despite its many advantages, impact moling has some limitations, although these can easily be managed with planning and assessment prior to any moling services being carried out.
Impact moling is most effective in compressible soils such as clays, silt, and peat. It’s less suitable for sand and gravel, especially if densely packed, and is entirely unsuitable for solid rock. This means that the effectiveness of this method can be affected by adverse ground conditions, such as dense dry clays and other non-compatible soils. Proper soil evaluation is crucial to determine the feasibility of moling as a project method. Additionally, identifying underground objects and obstructions is essential for planning the borehole route.
Moling is also restricted by its limited boring diameter and length. It’s only designed for small diameter pipework over relatively short distances. Using impact moling, we can install up to 20 metres of pipeline at a time in ideal ground conditions, and 100 metres of pipework per day.
For utility installations requiring larger pipework or spanning longer distances, here at EPS Trenchless Installations we can instead offer our specialist directional drilling services. It’s also worth noting that while impact moling on inclines is possible in certain ground conditions, it’s suitable for straight bores only, unlike directional drilling which can install long curved bores.
As an efficient and environmentally friendly solution for underground pipeline installations, impact moling is the preferred option for many utility companies and contractors. At EPS Trenchless Installations we provide expert moling services, and can help you to plan and complete your project quickly and cost-effectively while minimising any disruption.
Our experienced engineers use state-of-the-art equipment and their technical know-how to handle even the most challenging projects and complex soil conditions with precision. Contact us today to learn more about how impact moling can benefit you and your installation project.
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