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Description:

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The main components of a horizontal auger boring operation include the 36" American 36-200 boring machine, 24" steel augers with a cutting head, and 14" × 0.375" steel casing.

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The boring machine mechanically excavates the earth using a rotating cutting head attached to the augers. The augers convey the excavated spoil back through the steel casing to the boring machine located in the jacking pit.

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Groundwater levels should be maintained at a minimum of 1" below the casing invert to help prevent soil from flowing into the bore heading.

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The casing and augers are advanced together at a controlled rate using hydraulic thrust from the boring machine. Thrust is applied against a reaction plate or block located at the rear of the jacking pit. The jacking pit and reaction wall, of sufficient strength to support the operation, are furnished by the general contractor.

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Set-Up:

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After the jacking pit has been excavated, the boring machine rails are positioned at the precise alignment and grade of the proposed augered crossing.

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A steel band approximately 4" wide × 3/8" thick is welded to the front edge of the lead casing to form a reinforced cutting edge and friction band.

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Depending on site conditions, additional equipment or modifications may include:

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• Remote grade indicator and 1/2" pipe for remote grade readings from the jacking pit

• Articulated casing sections to allow for vertical steering of the casing

• Flush lines to lubricate the interior of the casing and assist in carrying spoil back through the augers

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Boring Process:

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The cutting edge of the auger head is positioned only a few inches ahead of the casing. If granular or flowing soils are encountered at the face of the bore, the auger head can be retracted inside the casing, slightly behind the cutting edge of the lead casing.

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The casing is then advanced into the face of the bore while the direction of the lead casing is closely monitored for any deviation in alignment or grade.

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Additional casing sections are attached by welding the casing joints together in the jacking pit. The casing and augers are then advanced progressively until the bore is completed.

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Bore alignment and grade are periodically verified by monitoring the remote grade indicator and/or retracting the augers to allow measurements to be taken with surveying equipment.

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Precision. Reliability. Minimal Disruption:

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Horizontal auger boring provides a dependable trenchless solution for installing underground casing and utilities while minimizing surface disturbance. With precise alignment, controlled excavation, and proven equipment, our boring process is designed to deliver safe, efficient, and accurate installations—even in challenging ground conditions.

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