Project Showcase

We innovate and deliver technical expertise to find the right solutions!

Erskine Bridge | HDD

The Murphy and Joseph Gallagher Teams used Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) and Microtunnelling to overcome several challenges on the project to install the new pipeline

An Overview
There are currently two HP gas pipelines suspended under the Erskine Bridge which crosses the River Clyde at Old Kilpatrick and Erskine. SGN’s aim is to construct an alternative crossing so the pipelines can be decommissioned and removed from the bridge.

The Murphy and Joseph Gallagher Teams used Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) and Microtunnelling to overcome several challenges on the project to install the new pipeline - a stretch of over one kilometre - underneath the river. The length and location of the crossing presented its own challenges as the river bed is set on abrasive bedrock, with boulders and steep approaches at the south riverbank. 

In addition to crossing the river, the pipeline also crossed a canal, a railway and a major water main before crossing the A82 to tie in with SGN’s existing above ground installation at Station Road, at the foot of the Kilpatrick Braes.