Microtunneling systems and methods of use

A method of disposing a casing string within a subterranean formation, comprising:

• providing a tunneling apparatus configured with a trailing end and a leading end, wherein the leading end comprises a cutting structure disposed thereon;
• providing a casing string comprising at least one casing section in structural communication with the trailing end of the tunneling apparatus;
• providing at least one linkage section extending longitudinally through the at least one casing section and structurally communicating with the trailing end of the tunneling apparatus;
• applying a force generally to the trailing end of the tunneling apparatus, generally toward the leading end thereof, wherein at least a portion of the force is applied through the at least one linkage section;
• applying a compressive force to an end of the casing string remote from the tunneling apparatus;
• and
• tunneling into a subterranean formation with the cutting structure of the tunneling apparatus.

A method of disposing a casing string within a subterranean formation comprising:

• providing a tunneling apparatus configured with a trailing end and a leading end, wherein the leading end comprises a cutting structure disposed thereon;
• providing a casing string comprising at least one casing section and configuring the casing string to be in structural communication with the trailing end of the tunneling apparatus;
• applying a force generally to the trailing end of the tunneling apparatus, generally toward the leading end thereof, through a linkage extending longitudinally within and affixed directly to the casing string;
• and
• tunneling into a subterranean formation with the cutting structure of the tunneling apparatus.