First Direct Pipe® with Sea landfall in Spain

For the first time in Spain, Direct Pipe® drilling technology has been used to carry out a landfall drilling operation from a wastewater treatment plant, positioning us as a pioneering company in high-complexity underground drilling solutions.

This historic project was carried out in Pontevedra as part of the expansion of the Os Praceres Wastewater Treatment Plant. The goal? To install a submarine outfall using a non-invasive, efficient, and highly precise technique.

Over 24 days of uninterrupted work, a 56” (1422 mm diameter) pipeline was successfully installed, covering a total distance of 690 meters from the entry point at the coastline to the exit point 6 meters below sea level on the seabed. Drilling rates reached up to 70 meters per day, overcoming a demanding geology composed of alternating layers of silt, clay, and granite.

This project represents not only a technical milestone but also a significant step forward in sustainability and innovation within the sector.

What is Direct Pipe® technology?

Direct Pipe® technology is a cutting-edge method in the field of underground drilling, designed to install large-diameter pipelines safely, quickly, and with minimal environmental impact.

The method combines the benefits of microtunneling and horizontal directional drilling, enabling the precise crossing of complex areas such as rivers, road infrastructures, urban zones, and even marine sections. It is especially useful for projects that require minimal disruption to the natural or built environment.

The system can overcome challenging geotechnical conditions, ensuring full traceability and control over the pipeline path at all times. This makes it an excellent choice for sensitive or highly demanding technical projects.

Commitment to Innovation and the Environment

With this project, we reaffirm our leadership in adopting cutting-edge technologies, promoting efficient and sustainable solutions. Our ability to execute the first Direct Pipe® with sea outlet in Spain reflects our commitment to continuous innovation, minimizing environmental impact, and overcoming top-level technical challenges.

This achievement marks a turning point in the sector, positioning our company at the heart of the technological transformations that will shape the future of underground infrastructure.