Innovative formwork solutions for challenging excavations

At Manhole Form Hire, we know our forms are built for more than just manholes. A recent project with Andy from The Tunnel Company showcased just how adaptable our solutions can be. Their Sydney Water job required a 10-metre-deep excavation—not for a standard manhole, but to launch a tunnel boring machine.
The Challenge: Shoring at Extreme Depths
For this job, traditional shoring boxes simply weren’t suitable for the extreme depth needed. Instead, our 5000mm inner / 5700mm outer forms were used to safely shore up the pit. But there was one more requirement—Andy needed a slightly larger inner diameter to accommodate the size of the tunnel boring machine.
The solution: Custom adaptations with heavy-duty panels
To meet this challenge, we provided our 150mm wide heavy-duty panels, increasing the inner diameter to 5500mm. This flexibility allowed The Tunnel Company to achieve the exact dimensions required for a smooth and efficient launch process.
The advantage: efficiency and safety
One of the biggest benefits of using our forms was the ability to stack each 1500mm-high section on top of the previous one, creating a stable and secure structure. This method provided three key advantages:
✅ Safety: The stacked sections created a reinforced, controlled environment for the launch.
✅ Efficiency: Multiple sets of forms allowed the team to pour and set the next ring without downtime.
✅ Cost-effectiveness: By using our existing formwork system, the need for costly custom shoring solutions was eliminated.
A versatile solution for complex projects
This project is a testament to the versatility and reliability of our forms. Whether you’re building a manhole, shoring a deep excavation, or tackling a unique engineering challenge, Manhole Form Hire has the solutions to keep your project moving.
Got a complex job that needs a tailored approach? Get in touch with us today!
📞 Call us or visit our website to learn more about how we can help with your next project.
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