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16
'24
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PIPELINE & GAS EXPO 2024 HIGHLIGHTS EUROPE’S NO-DIG REVOLUTION
Pipeline & Gas Expo 2024 will shine a light on trenchless technology as this minimally disruptive method for laying and repairing utility lines grows in importance for future-proofing cities across Europe.
Trenchless technology, also known as no-dig, has revolutionised the installation and repair of underground infrastructure. Unlike traditional methods requiring large excavations, trenchless techniques, such as horizontal directional drilling (HDD), microtunneling, and cured-in-place pipe (CIPP), minimise surface disruption and space requirements, translating to numerous benefits for water, gas, electricity, and telecommunications utilities.
Dedicated no-dig area at Pipeline & Gas Expo 2024
Recognising its importance, the third edition of Pipeline & Gas Expo (The Utility Construction Show) is putting trenchless innovation front and centre. Held in Piacenza, Italy, from 29th–31st May 2024, this leading European event for midstream oil and gas and water networks will feature a dedicated area showcasing the latest developments in trenchless technology, organised in collaboration with the Italian Association for Trenchless Technology (IATT).
A long history and rapid rise
While trenchless construction has a surprisingly long history, dating back 2,500 years, it wasn't until the 1970s that advancements made no-dig technology more accessible and began to disrupt traditional methods. In the 2020s, the pace of adoption continues to accelerate, with the European trenchless pipe relining market alone expected to grow at a healthy compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.0% from 2023 to 2028, reaching US$676.74 million.
Increasing urbanisation driving growth
Several factors are driving the surge in trenchless technology adoption, particularly in Europe alongside rapid urbanisation. As cities expand, the demand for new and upgraded utility lines rises. However, minimising disruption to existing infrastructure is crucial and trenchless technologies address this challenge perfectly.
Unlike traditional open trenching, they require less overall underground space, reducing the risk of interfering with existing utilities. Additionally, they minimise damage to pavements and significantly limit disruption to traffic and residents in urban areas. This translates to less community frustration associated with open-cut excavation that disrupts daily life. Furthermore, trenchless technologies require a smaller exposed work area compared to open-cut methods, enhancing safety for both workers and the general public.
Practical solution for ageing pipeline repairs
In addition, ageing infrastructure, particularly water and sewage pipelines, presents a growing challenge across Europe and governments are tightening regulations, imposing stricter requirements on leakage mitigation. This, coupled with the need to minimise disruption in historic areas, is also driving significant demand for trenchless technologies.
Similarly, no-dig methods help avoid harm to flora and fauna in areas of special environmental significance by minimising disruption to soil and habitats – and they are always required in certain scenarios, such as pipelines crossing highways, railways, rivers, and other obstacles.
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