More than two decades ago, TEI Rock Drills identified a gap in the geotechnical construction industry. As hollow bar systems gained acceptance for soil nailing, micropiles, mining, slope stabilization and ground support applications, there was no dedicated program bringing contractors, engineers, manufacturers, grout specialists and testing professionals together to learn the complete installation process.
Installation crews often had to learn through trial and error, from material selection and equipment use to installation practices, grout quality and testing procedures. A strong understanding of the engineering principles behind these systems was also essential.
To address this need, TEI created the TEI Hollow Bar Installation School, an industry training program designed to bring together experts from across the hollow bar installation process. What began as an effort to improve industry knowledge has grown into an established educational program for professionals in the ground support sector.
Today, the school attracts contractors, engineers, drill operators, project managers and geotechnical professionals from across North America and around the world. Recent programs have welcomed participants from Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Sweden, Germany, Costa Rica, Canada and Chile, creating an international learning environment where attendees share experiences, discuss challenges and exchange best practices from a range of projects and ground conditions.
The program is built around the principle that successful hollow bar installations require an understanding of the entire process. TEI brings together experts in hollow bar manufacturing, drilling, grouting and testing, along with experienced contractors. This collaborative approach gives participants insight into the design, installation and verification of hollow bar systems.
As hollow bar technology continues to expand worldwide, TEI Rock Drills remains focused on providing education, technical expertise and industry collaboration to support successful installations and advance ground support construction practices around the globe.