Dr Dec Downey

Dr Downey spoke about the old problems of underground infrastructure requiring new solutions; trenchless solutions. Recent technological developments, such as leak detection and improvements in welding technologies, can improve how assets are managed. He advised that through adequate funding and forethought, Trenchless Technology can minimise disruption and also get ahead of the cycle of deterioration. Furthermore, trenchless techniques improve OH&S, reduce the need for soil disposal, and are sustainable and better for the environment than traditional open-cut methods.

“Australia has made very significant contributions to pipeline engineering and particularly to Trenchless Technology.”

Dr Samuel Ariaratnam

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Dr Ariaratnam, a specialist in technology such as horizontal directional drilling, outlined the green credentials of trenchless methodology. The industry is developing software such as the online e-Calc to compare the carbon emissions of trenchless versus open cut, highlighting the sustainable advantages of minimising surface disruption.

Dr Ariaratnam co-presented the Trenchless Bootcamp with Dr Downey for beginners and those in need of a refresher course, and also led in-depth training on HDD and pipe bursting.

“Now we actually have a way of calculating the sustainable solution.” Tan Thai Pin

PUB manages the complete water cycle in Singapore. Tan Thai Pin said Singapore faces challenges as more lucrative land usage competes with the need for urban water catchments. The solution is three pronged:

  • Membrane technology to filter sewer water
  • Timely implementation
  • Trenchless Technology for pipe laying and rehabilitation.

PUB plans to rehabilitate 1,000 kilometres over the next five years using CIPP, spiral wound lining and fold and formed. They will also use pipe jacking and microtunnelling to extend the sewer network.

“We engage the community, as well as the stakeholders, to conserve water, to value the water – so they don’t pollute the water – and also enjoy the water.”

John Roskam

John Roskam explored the industry from a public policy perspective. Mr Roskam said “You are all in the infrastructure industry. You’re not in the trenchless industry, you’re not in the hole industry, you’re not in sewerage, water or telecommunications. You’re in infrastructure, and I think that’s one of the key issues.” He explained that industry players needed to locate the advantages of Trenchless Technology into the three economic drivers; productivity, population and participation in order to connect the debate about urban renewal with the renovation and upgrade of infrastructure networks.

Turn to page 38 for an in-depth look at Mr Roskam’s suggestions for the industry. “The buzz words are infrastructure, infrastructure, infrastructure and what I want to do is put that infrastructure debate into a trenchless context.”

Ross Young

Ross Young spoke to delegates regarding the unprecedented changes experienced by the water industry in recent years. Mr Young said that the urban water industry has received profound signals regarding climate changes resulting in a need to diversify water supplies and become “water literate”.

“The last 10 to 15 years has seen a revolution in our industry which I think is unprecedented.”