As part of the works for the reconstruction of the SNAM Rete Gas Ravenna-Chieti Methane Pipeline Lot 2, Rimini-Fano section having a diameter DN650 (26”), the Contractor RTI Sicim – Manna commissioned I.CO.P. to build a trenchless crossing to be carried out with
microtunneling technology.

The special work concerns the crossing of a modest hill relief and some roads that are part of the public road system in the municipality of Gradara. The planned microtunnel has been realized through the laying of a reinforced concrete pipe of internal diameter DN2000 and external diameter DE2500 inside which the pipeline of the methane pipeline will be housed. The starting point is located near the town of Gradara (PU).

The characteristics of the route are as follows:

• Horizontal development with the presence of a curve with radius R=3000 and extension 130m approx;
• Straight development with constant slope +1.75%;
• Total development 840m;
• Coverage below the relief up to about -48m from the berm;

Soils crossed were found to be mostly average to consistent clays. Average feed rate was 20-
25mm/min with reduction to 5-10mm/min on the more consistent clays. Average production on a calendar week was 105m per week operating on three shifts. Run times were in line with
expectations.