04/03/2025

In focus: FLEXWELL-FHK - district heating pipe for trenchless installation using horizontal directional drilling

The trenchless laying of district heating pipes is becoming increasingly important in sensitive areas. Whether nature conservation areas, bodies of water, railway lines or inner-city streets - the flush drilling method offers an efficient, environmentally friendly and economical solution. With the FLEXWELL-FHK, BRUGG Pipes offers the perfect pipe system for this application.

The problem solver among district heating pipes

The FLEXWELL-FHK from BRUGG Pipes is a flexible, pre-insulated pipe system for the trenchless installation of district heating pipes using HDD (Horizontal Directional Drilling). Thanks to its design as a double-walled steel casing pipe system, it is ideal for applications where conventional PE(x) pipe systems reach their limits in terms of both installation and durability.

Trenchless installation without compromise

The requirements for trenchless installation of district heating pipes are high. The pipe used must be both flexible and easy to handle. This is precisely where the FLEXWELL-FHK impresses with its unique design: The corrugated stainless steel pipe construction with PUR insulation enables comparatively simple and quick installation - even with complex pipe runs.

Optimised for directional drilling

The design of the FLEXWELL-FHK allows long pipe sections to be pulled into directional drilling channels without interruption. The low bending radius tolerance in combination with the high axial compressive and tensile strength makes the system ideal for routes under roads, railway lines, river courses or in protected areas. Thanks to its small external dimensions, it can also be installed with a reduced drilling diameter - particularly relevant for limited installation windows.

Minimum installation depth, maximum system stability

The extremely stable system design of this stainless steel district heating pipe enables a reliable district heating supply even with minimal overlap. This makes the FLEXWELL-FHK ideal for urban installation projects or renovations with limited depth options.

Special applications under difficult conditions

Even use under roads, railway tracks or rivers, in ecologically sensitive areas such as nature reserves or under busy traffic routes poses no risk thanks to the system's high mechanical load-bearing capacity. The FLEXWELL-FHK comes up trumps as the problem solver for almost any installation situation.

Reduced effort on construction sites

Laying using the flush drilling method means that a minimum laying depth is sufficient compared to conventional laying in trenches, which saves additional costs, significantly minimises the effort required for barriers, bridges for vehicles and people and reduces interference with existing infrastructure.

Future-proof solution

The demand for sustainable solutions for district heating supply is constantly growing. With the FLEXWELL-FHK, BRUGG Pipes offers a forward-looking product that is not only ideal for use in new construction projects but also for the renovation of existing networks - especially when conventional installation methods reach their limits.

Summary

The FLEXWELL-FHK is a highly technical, reliable and proven pipe system for district heating pipes laid using the flush drilling method. It meets the highest requirements for tightness, durability and installation flexibility in complex structural and geological scenarios.

More information about the FLEXWELL-FHK
Click here for the district heating pipe for flush drilling
Videos of FLEXWELL-FHK installation using the flush drilling method

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