Case Studies

Consumers Energy Utility Installation

Project Details

Project Name: Consumers Energy Utility Installation
General Contractor: Dunigan Bros., Inc. – Jackson, MI
Location: Hamilton, MI
Ground Conditions: Lean clay conditions
Akkerman Equipment: Model 240A GBM System with Universal Base Adapter. Guided Auger Boring System and accessories
Pipe: 4-in gas main
Total Length/Hard Rock Section: 140 LF

Project Overview

Dunigan Bros., Inc. completed a guided auger boring installation for a gas distribution project in Hamilton, Michigan. The project required placement of a 4-in gas main using a non-HDD trenchless method to meet permitting requirements while maintaining precise line and grade control.

By utilizing the Akkerman 240A GBM System, the crew installed pilot tubes and completed the installation with controlled accuracy. The guided auger boring approach provided an efficient alternative method while supporting reliable gas utility placement.

Challenges

Meeting permitting requirements that limited the use of HDD methods
Maintaining line and grade accuracy for a small-diameter utility installation
Working within lean clay conditions requiring controlled excavation
Minimizing environmental impact and construction footprint

Solution

Utilized the Akkerman 240A GBM System to establish precise pilot tube alignment
Applied guided auger boring methods to complete installation with controlled accuracy
Leveraged system adaptability to perform both pilot installation and pullback operations
Selected a trenchless approach that minimized disturbance and environmental impact

Outcome

Successfully completed the 140 LF gas main installation
Maintained accurate line and grade control for small-diameter utility placement
Provided a cost-effective alternative to HDD while meeting permitting constraints
Minimized environmental impact and surface disruption
Demonstrated the versatility of guided auger boring for utility installations beyond conventional casing applications