Client Case Study

Storm Water Management Using Directional Drilling

Stonbury / Environmental Agency

Trenchless Storm Water Management, Northamptonshire

The location of an old river embankment next to the A43 in Northamptonshire experienced recurrent flooding, which was having a significant detrimental impact on the local ecosystem and infrastructure near the A43.

It was crucial to resolve the problem, with minimal ecological impact while effectively addressing the flooding. EPS Trenchless Installation undertook this storm water management project using horizontal directional drilling (HDD) to mitigate the flooding, using the Ditch Witch JT3020 directional drilling equipment

We worked in close collaboration with environmental specialist Stonbury, to install more than 60 meters of 280mm Black HDPE Storm Water pipe beneath the old river embankment.

Project Type

Large Storm Water Pipe Installation

Trenchless Installation Method

Horizontal Directional Drilling

Requirements

Install Black HDPE Storm Water Pipe to Prevent Flooding

Location

Northamptonshire

Distance

60 Meters

Crossing

River Embankment

Drilling Suggestion

280mm SDR11 HDPE Black Pipe

Constraints

Grade works. Location of works. Access to water.

Rig used

Ditchwitch JT3020 Directional Drill

Ground Conditions

Clay

Installation time

4 Days Total
2 Days site setup
1 Day drilling for pipe installation.
1 Day Butt Fusion

Stonbury, renowned for specialised in water management projects, engaged EPS Trenchless Installations on behalf of the Environmental Agency. The project’s objective was to address and mitigate persistent flooding issues, for environmental preservation and infrastructure improvement.

Challenges and Objectives:

The primary challenge was the installation of the stormwater pipeline under challenging terrain, specifically an old embankment, without resorting to invasive and costly traditional excavation methods. The objectives were clear:

Alleviate flooding effectively

Minimize environmental and structural impact

Ensure the project's cost-effectiveness and timely completion

Innovative Solutions

Scope of work

The installation focused on precision and minimal disturbance, with over 60 meters of HDPE pipe laid beneath the embankment.

Utilization of Advanced GPRS

Although not explicitly mentioned, the project’s success implied reliance on cutting-edge GPRS technology for accurate underground utility mapping and drilling guidance.

Bore Path Design and Execution

A meticulous bore path design was essential, allowing for installation at a tight grade without compromising the embankment’s integrity.

expertise in HDD

The use of a Ditch Witch JT3020 drill was pivotal, chosen for its suitability in cohesive clay conditions—ideal for the gravity installation method.

Outcomes

The project was a resounding success, with the stormwater pipe installed on grade and without unnecessary environmental disruption. The client, the Environmental Agency, expressed exceptional satisfaction with the innovative approach, timely execution, and the project’s overall impact on flood alleviation.

Conclusion

This case study underscores the potential of horizontal directional drilling as a sustainable and efficient solution for infrastructure challenges, particularly in environmentally sensitive contexts. Eps Trenchless Installations Ltd.’s execution of the project exemplifies how innovative engineering and technology can converge to solve complex problems, setting a precedent for future environmental management projects.

By reflecting on the project’s strategic planning, execution, and the collaborative effort between Eps Trenchless Installations Ltd. and Stonbury, this case study serves as a blueprint for future endeavors in the realm of environmental preservation and infrastructure resilience.

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