Smart Undergrounding
"Smart undergrounding", a term Deltek introduced to the sector, aims to provide technological, contemporary solutions to existing infrastructure problems. Unlike traditional and costly methods, it applies the possibilities of modern technology right down to the problem itself, creating major advantages both in pipe renewal and in building lines from scratch. The aim is not only to complete the job but to make it sustainable — one of the biggest criteria that sets Deltek apart in the sector. Merely completing the work is considered "incomplete" in today's engineering; the project must also be measurable and traceable afterwards.
Exceptional problems require their own solutions. Analysing the problem comprehensively, deciding which trenchless alternative or alternatives can be used, and planning them within a system forms the backbone of the approach.
Within the smart undergrounding concept, Deltek offers a service to world standards in which horizontal directional drilling, guided and unguided pipe jacking / ramming and trenchless pipe bursting are used, and combinations of different systems can be applied where the need arises.
For free analysis and planning, contact our project department.
How does the smart undergrounding process work?
Smart undergrounding is not a product but a way of working, and it follows the same five steps on every project. Inventory: the route, diameter, material and condition of existing lines are established (with camera inspection and electromagnetic scanning where necessary). Ground and constraints: the geotechnical survey, groundwater level, surface structures, traffic and permit conditions are assessed together. Method selection: horizontal directional drilling, guided/unguided pipe jacking, microtunnelling and pipe bursting are compared on cost, time and risk; where necessary, more than one method is combined on the same line. Measurable plan: the target, acceptance criterion and control method of every stage are written down from the start. Traceability: after construction, the coordinates, depth and technical data of the line are handed to the client, so the line lives on as data for future projects.
This approach creates value especially for municipalities and water utilities, natural gas and electricity distribution companies, telecom operators and industrial plants: instead of building one line at a time, the future lines that will share the same corridor are planned too, and unnecessary capacity or repeated excavation is avoided. Deltek's more than 20 years of field experience — a body of knowledge showing which method really works in which ground — is the foundation of this consultancy.
Talk to us about this.
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