Microtunneling
Precision trenchless installation beneath rivers, roads, and rail
What is microtunneling?
Microtunneling is a remotely operated, laser-guided method of installing pipe without trenching. A microtunnel boring machine (MTBM) launches from a working shaft and hydraulic jacks advance the machine and new pipeline on a precise line and grade to a receiving shaft. The operation is similar to conventional pipe jacking, but it is controlled entirely from the surface with no personnel in the tunnel.
The earth pressure balance machine (EPBM) is what sets microtunneling apart. It continuously counters groundwater and soil pressures at the cutting face, allowing pipe to be installed below the water table and in flowing soil conditions. That includes river crossings, saturated ground, and lake taps, all without dewatering or settlement of the tu.
This is why owners and engineers specify microtunneling for their most demanding crossings.
Why Microtunneling?
✓ River, Road & Rail Crossings - Utilities installed beneath waterways, highways, railroads, and runways
✓ Pinpoint Line and Grade - Laser-guided steering holds inch-level accuracy over hundreds of feet
✓ Built for Groundwater - Pressurized slurry supports the face below the water table without dewatering
✓ Minimal Surface Disruption - Impact confined to shaft sites while traffic and rail continue above
✓ No Personnel in the Tunnel - Fully remote operation keeps crews out of the excavation during mining
✓ Handles Variable Ground - Interchangeable cutter heads customizable to excavate all soil conditions
Where Microtunneling delivers
Water & Sewer Crossings
New water mains and gravity sewers installed beneath rivers, lakes, and wetlands — with grade accuracy open-cut can't match at depth.
Transportation corridors
Utilities placed under interstates, rail lines, and runways without lane closures, track outages, or settlement risk.
Congested urban streets
Deep installations in tight urban corridors, contaminated soils, or protected areas where surface impact must be zero.
Precision Equipment. Complete Self-Performance.
ECI can self-perform all facets of microtunneling projects. This includes shaft construction, microtunneling using Akkerman SL-Series MTBMs, and all final utility connections. When a project calls for dewatering and bypass systems, those crews are ours as well. When specialized ground treatment such as ground freezing is required, ECI integrates those partners into one coordinated operation.
For owners and engineers, that means one team is accountable for the entire crossing, fewer handoffs to coordinate, and a schedule that stays in one set of hands.
Project spotlight: 10th Avenue water main crossing
Video courtesy of Akkerman
Partner with ECI for Expert Solutions Tailored to Your Project
At ECI, we deliver innovative, high-quality microtunneling solutions. Contact our team to discuss your project’s unique needs and receive a customized plan designed for success. Let’s collaborate to bring your vision to life.
Start Your Project with Confidence. Partner with ECI for innovative solutions and expert guidance.