All About Directional Boring: 5 Advantages of This Digging Method
Directional boring is also sometimes referred to as horizontal drilling, deviated drilling, or horizontal directional drilling (HDD). Horizontal directional drilling is often the term used for large-scale projects that require larger machinery. In general, directional boring involves the use of a surface-launched drilling machine to dig precise, pre-established underground paths. It’s an attractive alternative to trenching, and, increasingly, energy companies and oil and gas companies are opting for directional boring rather than traditional trenching because of its efficiency and other benefits. In the oil and gas realm specifically, directional boring is often used for drilling wells through rock.
Directional boring is also a great method for drilling into the ground for the purpose of installing utilities and pipes. This is because it minimally disturbs the ground surface while digging along the necessary path with maximum precision. Directional boring is also often used to make crossings under roads and bodies of water where pipes can be installed. If you’re wondering about some of the specific advantages directional boring offers, here are five to consider:
1. It doesn’t disturb the ground or its surroundings. This is the main advantage it has over traditional trenching. Trenching isn’t ideal for places where the ground can’t be disturbed (such as high-traffic roadways) or for digging near buildings and other structures. Directional boring can dig under buildings and other structures as well as roadways without causing damage to anything above ground. It also allows for the installation of pipes underground, under bodies of water like rivers. This is something traditional trenching simply can’t do.
2. It’s better for the environment. It decreases groundwater pollution in comparison to trenching. And it also doesn’t disturb the ecosystem of the digging site. Additionally, it results in fewer fractures in rocky areas than trenching, which means rock formations are preserved and protected.
3. It’s handy in combination with traditional trenching. One reason directional boring hasn’t completely eclipsed traditional trenching in popularity is because its operational costs are higher. Oftentimes, projects that use trenching also will use directional boring too, however. Traditional trenching can take care of the bulk of the work, and then directional boring can be used for fine-tuned digging under or around obstructive structures.
4. It’s a safer alternative. Trenching creates safety risks and requires protective systems to be used to prevent serious accidents onsite. For some trenching safety tips, be sure to read our previous article on the subject. There’s a lot involved in ensuring workers are safe in the trenches. Since directional boring cuts a precise path that minimally disturbs the ground, workers are much less at risk for falling or having to deal with rocks and debris falling around them. Plus, directional boring is safe in all weather conditions. Trenching is hazardous when it’s raining or snowing or has recently rained. This, of course, also translates to less downtime on digging projects due to inclement weather and project completion without unexpected delays.
5. It’s faster. As mentioned, directional boring is technically costlier, but it’s also a lot quicker and more efficient than trenching. With directional boring, less dirt gets displaced, there’s less dirt to put back into place, and there’s less to dispose of and deal with once a digging job is complete. Directional boring makes cleanup easy. This speeds things up, and since time is money, directional boring may in some ways make up for its higher upfront costs due to its efficiency. On a related note, directional boring also requires fewer operators and workers. This means workers who would be trenching can work on other aspects of the project and accelerate things even further.
BUY AND SELL WITH EIFFEL TRADING
Eiffel Trading helps customers buy and sell used utility equipment, as well as other types of used heavy equipment like vibratory hammers, dozers, and much more. We also help customers buy and sell used material, like steel pipe and wide flange beams.
All of our listings are constantly being updated, but if you don’t see what you’re looking for, create a wanted listing for free.
Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today for free on Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace.
If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call us at 1-800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.