We always visit the future project site before we start work. We make a thorough observation and analysis of the existing situation.

We look at (geo)technical and civil engineering factors, making it possible to form an early impression of potential problems during implementation and how they can be solved. We also use available historical data to perform a “historical test” of the site.

We prepare the preliminary design, taking account of the desired technical requirements and specifications, budget, project scope, construction methods, etc.

The ROW (“right of way” or pipeline route) is defined at this stage.

We use land surveys and available terrain models to create a 3D model of the surrounding area. We also map the existing underground installations.

We design the drilling or pipeline in the 3D model, taking account of the surrounding area and the wishes of the client and local site managers.

The soil condition must be known if the project is to progress as planned.

DrillingEngineering.eu/PipelineEngineering.eu charts soil using existing databases (Databank Ondergrond Vlaanderen, Dinoloket, Géoportail Wallonie, etc.). An additional soil survey can be carried out and analysed in conjunction with a sampling company and geologist.

Once all the design parameters are known, we can start the actual detailed design or “detailed engineering”.

The pipeline is designed taking account of the design pressure, test pressure, traffic load, soil load, pipeline depth, permissible bending radius, etc.

We also take various applicable design standards into consideration during the design process, including NEN3650, NEN3650, ASME, ISO, DVGW.

DrillingEngineering.eu/Pipelineangineering.eu uses software such as D-Geo Pipeline, Sigma, Dlubal Rstab, etc. to test the pipeline/drilling for strength and surroundings.

For HDD, our assessments include:

• The positioning system
• The type of drilling head and bit
• The maximum pump pressures and flow
• The number of clearing/reaming trips to be provided
• The tensile forces to be provided
• The ballast system
• Any overbends
• etc.

The design is projected onto the existing underground infrastructure. The KLIP/KLIM and KLIC platform data is digitally integrated into the design drawings.

The pipe material, diameter, wall thickness, the welds and cladding type are defined in line with the intended use of the new pipe and the surroundings in which it will be constructed.

DrillingEngineering.eu/PipelineEngineering.eu works with experienced welding engineers and corrosion specialists to achieve an optimum pipe system.

Once the designs have been completed, we apply for the necessary planning permission and permits to implement the project.

We are also able to help our clients provide information to public administrations and other land managers and permit holders and to win them over to a particular (new) construction method.

This assistance is always based on equivalent projects that we have already completed.