Project Overview
A sewer tunnelling project in Port Melbourne, Victoria, required the use of a micro tunnel boring machine (MTBM) to install underground pipelines with minimal surface disruption. During the process, a sealing system was needed to prevent soil and groundwater from entering the tunnel around the boring machine.
The tunnelling contractor faced time pressure when preparing to retrieve the MTBM and required a custom rubber seal solution at short notice. They contacted Reglin Rubber for urgent supply of a suitable sealing material that could be installed quickly on-site.
Solution: Custom Cut Natural 60 HG Rubber Gasket was installed to create a seal
Reglin supplied Natural 60 HG Rubber, 12mm thick, cut to size as a custom seal specifically designed to suit the contractor’s MTBM retrieval setup. This high-grade natural rubber was chosen for its excellent elasticity, resilience, and sealing properties, making it ideal for blocking soil and slurry ingress while still allowing controlled movement of the pipe string and boring machine.
The rubber seal was installed by the micro-boring company at the shaft wall, creating a tight and flexible barrier around the MTBM. Its elastic properties allowed it to maintain close contact with the equipment surface.
Results
The custom-cut Natural 60 HG rubber seal performed effectively during the MTBM retrieval. It successfully prevented earth and slurry from entering the tunnel, ensuring that the shaft remained stable and safe for workers while the machine was withdrawn.
By supplying a tailored solution on short notice, Reglin supported the contractor in keeping the project on schedule and minimising risk during this critical stage of sewer tunnel construction.
Conclusion
This project demonstrated how Reglin Natural 60 HG Rubber can provide a fast, effective sealing solution in a wide variety of construction applications. Its elasticity, durability, and ability to be cut into custom profiles made it a reliable choice for preventing soil and water ingress during MTBM operations.
By working closely with the contractor to meet urgent supply needs, Reglin was able to deliver a practical sealing product that ensured both project efficiency and site safety.