SCOPE
Melcar Ltd was contracted to install 225’ of 74” casing with a 1” thick steel wall under an active CSX Railroad. To complete the install, Melcar used a pilot tube guided system in which crews used multi-step sequence of accurately installing a smaller pilot tube, followed by upsizing pipes to the final product diameter.
CHALLENGES
Through the use of multiple preconstruction meetings, the team was able to produce the correct installation procedure to ensure all specifications were met as well as all stakeholders were informed with the process. With the installation going directly under one of the most travelled railroad lines in the Northeast, extra precautions were taken by using a smaller differential in pipe sizing to ensure ground stabilization throughout the installation process as well as 24/7 track monitoring to ensure the integrity of the rail lines.
SUCCESS FACTORS/OUTCOMES
Even with the discovery of rock and abandoned railroad ties throughout the drill path, Melcar was able to complete the install without interruption to any rail traffic as well as completed 1 week ahead of schedule. The customer was then able to follow behind and start the installation and tie in of their work without any issues or call backs.
