Quantitative Analysis and Comparison of Traffic Disruption Using Open-Cut and Trenchless Methods of Pipe Installation

Abstract

This paper presents a comparison of traffic delays and related costs involved during utility construction using open-cut and trenchless methods. A case study of two sites involving utility construction is chosen and the traffic flow rate was measured. Depending on the type of pipe installation method used, the time lost and costs of delay were calculated. The same is repeated for the alternate method of pipe installation applying the same criteria. The time and cost parameters were compared against one another for a given site. These costs were added to the social costs and the actual cost of construction. The life-cycle costs are then analyzed and the best alternate for that particular site is derived, using the data from the case studies. The comparative curve gives an estimate of the general data for a range of utility construction. Based on the data from the case studies and literature review of similar existing studies, the information can be applied to a range of applications in utility construction.