R9218-3 Directionally Drilled Pipeline Water Crossing Installations

Abstract

Directional drilling technology as related to the installation of small and large diameter pipelines at water crossings is continually improving. The current technology provides pipeline owner/operators with a valid installation option for both environmentally and geotechnically (i.e. unstable slopes) sensitive crossings. Route selection and design teams need some general information to assess whether directional drilling is feasible at a particular crossing. To aid this assessment, a study was commissioned by NOVA on the general aspects of directional drilling such as profiles, work area size, and current technology limits. Highlights of the study are presented. In addition, six case histories where directional drilling at water crossings was either considered or used are discussed. Finally, the authors' views of the future of this technology within Alberta are offered.