Navigation control is one of the most critical elements for successful microtunneling. Design criteria installation accuracy is maintained using active laser guidance systems.
A shaft station reference laser is positioned on line and grade behind the jacking frame and protected from disturbance. The laser is projected down the tunnel onto the MTBM’s active target at the design’s line and grade. The MTBM contains three inclinometers read and transmit the MTBMs pitch, yaw, and incline data coordinates. Target sensors relay this data to where it is numerically displayed on the operator’s control console.
Features:
- Light sensitive TGS100 active target reads the laser beam and transmits x and y coordinates and MTBM incline to the control console interface
- Reads the location of the most intense light
- Two redundant inclinometers to measure MTBM pitch and roll
- Target display screen displays current and projected cutter head position
- System logs over 100 data points for customized reporting to track and graph alignment deviation, face pressure, and torque changes.

Microtunneling Guidance System

Testimonials
With its purchase of an Akkerman Model 5000 pump unit, skid base, and WM72C wheel machine in 2006, Northeast Remsco began its partnership with Akkerman that has resulted in its successful completion of many trenchless projects over the ensuing years using
conventional wheeled machines as well as a variety of pilot tube equipment. I call it a partnership because the Akkerman team provides advice on the best choice of trenchless equipment for a project as well as how best to overcome jobsite obstacles when
they arise, as they inevitably do. From their sales staff to their factory support team, Akkerman employees work with us to get the most we can from the equipment and to get the jobs done safely. They are a pleasure to work with!
