Grooved mechanical Piping Systems in Tunnels

Piping system with grooved mechanical joints in supply tunnel beneath the River Vistula in Warsaw/Pl

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Grooved mechanical pipe joint

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Linear movement

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Angular deflection

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Anchoring and guiding pipelines

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Pipe-joining system with grooved mechanical joints compensating for curves and thermal movements in the supply tunnel beneath the River Vistula in Warsaw/Pl.

The refurbished fire main pipeline in the Queensway Mersey Tunnel near Liverpool/GB is joined with grooved-end couplings: the original couplings stayed intact for over 70 years

London Underground/GB, Green Park Station – the air conditioning was retrofitted quickly and safely thanks to piping with grooved mechanical joints.

The installation of pipework systems in tunnels often represents a particular challenge. Grooved mechanical pipe-joining systems are a safe and effective solution. This report deals with the basic set-up of grooved mechanical coupling systems, featuring in particular the angular displacement and linear movements, movements resulting from thermal conditions and expansion bends. In addition, international examples of application are cited.

Introduction

Pipelines for various purposes are needed in tunnels such as:

During the construction phase to supply tunnelling machines with compressed air and water and to remove muck.

During the operational phase as supply and disposal lines for extinguishing water, heating, air-conditioning and industrial water.

Generally tunnels are long, seldom straight and frequently difficult to access. Installing pipework in tunnels represents a particular challenge especially as curves, changes in direction as well as restricted installation periods, a lack of space for installation, tricky surrounding...