Directional Drilling

Scope

Michels completed an 800 metre of 12-inch pipe installation under the St. Lawrence River in Cornwall, Ontario, using horizontal directional drilling.

Federal government intended to replace the North Channel Bridge, which connects the city of Cornwall to Cornwall Island, but first needed to relocate the client`s pipeline which was suspended from the original bridge.

The new line was tied to existing pipe infrastructure on each side of the crossings, with retrofit fittings and pig-launcher, to allow inspection tools to pass through the line with ease. Michels replaced other nearby valves and tees as part of the project, as well.

Aboriginal involvement was crucial in the success of this project, as the connecting Cornwall Island is in Akwesasne, Mohawk Territory. Niagara Gas consulted the Mohawk Council during stages of planning, and Michels sub-contracted aboriginal-owned businesses and labour for the project.