Direct Pipe
We deliver industry-leading Direct Pipe tunnelling solutions, providing a highly efficient hybrid method that combines the precision of microtunnelling with the direct installation of the permanent product pipe. Our capability spans diameters from 600 mm to greater than 2.4 m, supporting both trenchless crossings and long sea outfall installations in challenging ground and marine environments.
Direct Pipe is particularly effective where engineering efficiency, programme certainty and asset performance are critical. The method allows the product pipe to act as the primary temporary support, eliminating the need for separate carrier pipes or secondary installation stages. This significantly reduces construction interfaces, handling risks and overall programme duration, while enhancing alignment accuracy and structural integrity.
We routinely deliver Direct Pipe drives for long-distance installations, including sea outfalls, where control of line, level and ground interaction is essential. The single-step process enables simultaneous tunnel excavation and pipeline installation, reducing surface disruption, minimising environmental impact and providing a robust solution across a wide range of ground conditions, including mixed and water-bearing strata.
Our engineering-led approach integrates geotechnical understanding, launch and reception shaft design, jacking force assessment, lubrication strategies and temporary works coordination. This ensures that Direct Pipe solutions are optimised to manage ground risk, protect third-party assets and maintain construction control throughout the drive.
