Abergeldie’s scope of works includes the installation of 2 casings under rail embankments, with each drive installing a 1000mm ID x 20mm wall thickness casing over a distance of 43m, launched from a 15m long shaft.

Trenchless casing installation of two steel casings under KiwiRail ECMT rail line including:

• Excavate sheet piled launch shaft
• Temporary works structure installations
• Installation of concrete floor and pipe hammering equipment
• Installation of two 1000mmID steel casing pipes via pipe hammer methodology.

Working underneath KiwiRail assets, Abergeldie utilised the approved and preferred Pipe Ramming Method, which has very low opportunity for settlement. In this method, the Grundo Ram Taurus Hammer progresses forward while retaining the spoil entering the casing, creating substantial face pressure with the assistance of an inflated plug installed at the launch shaft. The Pipe Ramming Method is effective, even through poor soil.

The hammer produces 18600N of impact, propelling the casing forward at up to 200mm minute.

The team reached a major milestone in late June when they entered the final stages of the project, despite major delays due to COVID-19 Level 4 Lockdown across New Zealand.

This new plant ensures a clean water supply for around 35,000 family homes, to meet the future needs of Tauranga and provide back up for the Western Bay of Plenty District Council.