Patricia's Construction and Contracting Blog: Tips for Novices to Experts

Pipe Installation: Advantages of Directional Boring Over Open Excavation

by غزل موسوی

If you are planning on advancing the piping network in your commercial property, you must evaluate and compare the different methods of installation. In general, there are two basic techniques to consider: simple excavation and directional boring. Simple excavation involves moving the upper layers of the earth using heavy equipment or other tools. In utilities installation, the ground is cut open from the upper surface, creating trenches in which the pipes are laid.

On the other hand, directional boring is an ideal alternative technique where trenchless drilling is desired. The process involves creating an entrance bore, reaming it to create the best diameter and then pulling the pipes into the ground behind the reamer. The hole is created in a shallow arc or along a slanted path for ideal performance. Here are the most critical advantages of choosing trenchless directional boring over the traditional open cut excavation technique.

Reduced Property Disturbance

There are two potential sources of disturbance during a pipe installation project in commercial property. These are the disruption of the appearance and function of the landscape and time required from normal business operations. Directional boring is less disruptive to the landscape because the pipes will be installed directly beneath the roadways and green landscape. In traditional excavation, the ground is left with large trenches which must be sealed. Your property will also require surface rehabilitation for restoration. Additionally, boring limits the amount of time lost for business because the process is fast. You can resume your normal activities soon after the pipes are laid.

Cost-Effectiveness

The directional drilling process is a cost-effective choice when installing pipes in an established commercial property. In simple terms, if you were to use open trenches in an operational business set-up, you would experience extensive financial repercussions. The traditional method is labour intensive, so you would require more workers to complete the project in time. More, heavy machines are required for this process, including excavators and back hoes. Directional boring requires a smaller workforce and less equipment, and the shorter project time means lower labour and rental costs.

Minimal Contamination Risk

Extensive ground disturbance means that the soil from the ground is brought to the surface. This increases the risk of contamination if there are pollutants deposited beneath the ground. If the upper ground is contaminated, significant resources will be required for remediation. Fortunately, directional drilling pushes the soil sideways during reaming as opposed to bringing it aboveground. Therefore, the potential for property contamination is minimal in comparison to trenching or vertical drilling.

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