MICROTUNNELLING

Highly complex underground drilling

Up to 3500 mm with millimetre precision

At Catalana de Perforaciones, we are introducing microtunnelling as a new drilling solution, using a Herrenknecht AVN 2000 remote-controlled tunnel boring machine, with a capacity of up to 3,000 mm and equipped with high-precision guidance systems that ensure optimal geometric control in highly demanding projects.

This technology stands out for its high level of precision, its adaptability to a range of geotechnical conditions, and its minimal impact at surface level, making it an optimal solution for urban environments and infrastructure in service.

What is microtunnelling?

Microtunnelling is a mechanised underground drilling system that allows the installation of pipelines by jacking pipes from a launch shaft to a reception shaft, without the need for open trenching at surface level. The process is remotely controlled and incorporates high-precision guidance systems that ensure accurate tracking of the designed alignment.

This technology enables work to be carried out with a high degree of precision in both alignment and level, even over long distances or in variable ground conditions, maintaining continuous control throughout the execution.

Drilling characteristics

Microtunnelling for demanding projects: large diameters and high precision

LENGTH:
– Minimum lengths: 20 m
– Maximum lengths: 2000 m

DIAMETER:
– Minimum diameter: 300 mm
– Maximum diameter: 3.500 mm

PRECISION:
Execution with typical tolerances of ±10–25 mm along the designed alignment, with continuous control of alignment and level throughout the drilling process.

Uses

  • Construction of sewer and drainage collectors
  • Installation of pipelines beneath roads, railway lines and existing infrastructure
  • Crossings beneath rivers, streams or environmentally sensitive areas
  • Construction of underground galleries in confined or difficult-to-access areas
  • Civil engineering projects with high alignment and layout requirements

Advantages of microtunnelling

  • SAFETY DURING EXECUTION

    The process is carried out in a controlled manner, adapting to different geotechnical conditions.

  • SOLUTION FOR COMPLEX PROJECTS

    It enables the execution of crossings and underground installations in situations where other techniques are not viable.

  • MINIMAL SURFACE DISRUPTION

    It eliminates the need for open excavations, reducing the impact on traffic, existing utilities and urban activity.