Prepared by the Standard Design and Construction Guidelines for Microtunneling Committee of the Construction Institute of ASCE

Standard Design and Construction Guidelines for Microtunneling, Standard ASCE/CI 36-15, covers the planning, design, materials, and construction for this trenchless method of installing pipelines. Microtunneling projects involve a remote-controlled boring machine, a laser guidance system, a jacking system for thrust, and continuous pressure on the face of the excavation to balance groundwater and earth pressures. The use of microtunneling has become a widely accepted means of pipeline construction, and this standard takes into account advances in technology and construction practice developed over the past 15 years.

This new edition of Standard 36 expands and modifies the earlier standard so that users can better understand both the key concepts and technical details involved in a microtunneling project. The section on preparing contract documents, particularly drawings, technical specifications, and contractual specifications, has been thoroughly updated. Also revised are the qualifications of engineers who design microtunneling projects and of the contractors who construct them. New sections have been added on sustainability; regulations; detailed site investigations, especially geotechnical aspects; microtunneling design elements and operations; construction support services; and aspects of measurement and payment.

Standard 36-15 is a vital reference for owners, engineers, contractors, suppliers, and manufacturers working on pipeline projects where microtunneling is an attractive option.