Introduction
Tube-à-Manchette (TAM) grouting is a precision-based ground improvement technique widely used in urban and environmentally sensitive construction areas. By injecting grout at controlled pressures through sleeve pipes, TAM grouting strengthens soils, reduces permeability, and stabilizes foundations without the need for extensive excavation. Its minimal disturbance, high precision, and adaptability make it ideal for projects in areas with existing infrastructure, high groundwater tables, or sensitive ecological zones.
1. Urban Tunneling Projects
1.1 Metro and Subway Tunnels
- Challenge: Excavation beneath densely built-up areas requires careful soil stabilization to prevent settlement and structural damage.
- Application: TAM grouting is used to pre-treat the ground ahead of tunnel boring machines (TBMs).
- Benefits:
- Reduces groundwater inflow and soil loosening.
- Minimizes surface settlement, protecting adjacent buildings.
- Allows safer tunneling under roads and utilities.
1.2 Utility Tunnels
- Challenge: Shallow underground service tunnels are often located under sensitive structures or roadways.
- Application: Targeted TAM grouting strengthens soils locally, reducing excavation risks.
- Outcome: Ensures structural stability and continuity of urban services during construction.
2. Deep Basement and High-Rise Foundations
2.1 Basement Excavations
- Challenge: Urban basements require excavation in soft soils or high water table conditions, posing risks of settlement or water ingress.
- Application: TAM grouting pre-stabilizes soil beneath and around basement footprints.
- Benefits:
- Controls groundwater inflow.
- Reduces lateral soil movements, preventing damage to neighboring structures.
- Allows deeper excavation with minimal dewatering.
2.2 High-Rise Building Foundations
- Challenge: Dense urban settings demand precise soil improvement to support high loads.
- Application: Grouting around pile groups increases bearing capacity and reduces negative skin friction in soft soils.
- Outcome: Provides reliable and durable foundation support in constrained urban environments.
3. Sensitive Environmental Areas
3.1 Coastal and Riverine Projects
- Challenge: Construction near water bodies requires soil stabilization without excessive disruption or spoil generation.
- Application: TAM grouting creates impermeable curtains or strengthens riverbed soils.
- Benefits:
- Minimizes sediment release into watercourses.
- Reduces environmental impact on aquatic ecosystems.
3.2 Historical and Heritage Sites
- Challenge: Excavation near heritage structures requires minimal vibration and settlement.
- Application: TAM grouting strengthens underlying soils and reduces the risk of foundation settlement.
- Outcome: Preserves the structural integrity of historic buildings while enabling safe underground works.
4. Other Notable Applications
- Underground Caverns and Parking Structures: Stabilization of weak soils or fractured rock.
- Dam and Hydraulic Structures: Formation of grout curtains for seepage control.
- Urban Slopes: Ground stabilization for landslide-prone zones without large-scale earthworks.
5. Advantages in Urban and Sensitive Areas
| Feature | Benefit |
| Precision Grouting | Treats only critical soil zones, minimizing disruption |
| Minimal Excavation | Reduces impact on surrounding structures and utilities |
| Controlled Pressure | Prevents soil heave and surface settlement |
| Reduced Waste | Limits spoil and slurry generation |
| Adaptable to Ground Conditions | Effective in sands, silts, gravels, and fractured rock |
Conclusion
TAM grouting has proven to be an effective and versatile solution for urban and sensitive construction areas. Its precision, adaptability, and low environmental impact allow engineers to safely improve soil conditions, control groundwater, and protect surrounding structures. From metro tunnels and high-rise basements to heritage sites and riverine projects, TAM grouting ensures safe, sustainable, and efficient ground improvement in challenging environments.
