Trench Vs Jacking Cost Comparison

This article evaluates the use of trenchless technology as opposed to open cut in terms of overall costs, with importance being placed on the relatively high external costs for open cut. The author uses the example of the pipe installation of Kessel-Dorp, Nijlen, Belgium that was executed via open trench, the direct costs of which were forecast at US$5.1 million. Indirect costs for the open cut study included lost time, fuel costs, accidents, environmental costs, infrastructure wear, and lost sales. The researchers have developed a specific method to analyze future indirect costs of open cut projects such as this one. In addition to problems with traffic redistribution from open cutting (including accidents), there are also problems encountered with damaging existing utilities and social costs that are also associated.