Microtunneling

The operator monitors the MTBM's location, orientation and hydraulic devices via a computer console, a CCTV camera or Gyro unit.

Gyro Control have generally replaced cameras for location and digital feedback.

This pipe jacking process is repeated until the MTBM reaches the reception shaft at the far end.

As much as hundreds of tons of force may be required to push the machine and liner forward.

So while the liner behind the interjack does not move, those sections in front of it receive additional pushing force.

San Francisco startup Petra demonstrated a thermal drilling robot that can tunnel through Sioux Quartzite, "the hardest rock on earth" that would normally require dynamite.