In part one of our series on what makes directional drilling the industry standard we talked about the specifics of what horizontal directional drilling is used for and what sets HDD apart from traditional trenching.
Here, we’ll go further into what separates HDD from trenching and why HDD is considered the most cost-effective option in the industry.
What makes horizontal directional drilling the most cost-effective choice?
Horizontal directional drilling, or HDD, is sometimes used collaboratively with traditional drilling. Contractors may use trenching when necessary and opt to use HDD when obstacles keep them from installing utilities or accessing gas/oil.
However, using both trenching and trenchless technology can sometimes become complicated. That said, when choosing only one method for drilling, it’s HDD that may be the better choice.
This is because, unlike trenching, there aren’t limitations in terms of where you can drill on the bore path. Additionally, there’s limited disruption to the rest of the area. This is beneficial because contractors don’t need to worry as much about the cleanup after the trench has been drilled.
What’s the real construction footprint of HDD?
Horizontal directional drilling, as mentioned above, may not cause as much disruption to the surrounding environment as traditional drilling. Yet, this doesn’t necessarily mean there’s no construction footprint left behind.
There’s still some damage that happens to the area surrounding the bore path. After all, you’re working with construction equipment. But proper planning can help to keep any damage caused to the surrounding area to a minimum and you still won’t have to sweat over the results like you would with traditional trenching.
Stay tuned for part three where we’ll finish our series on what makes directional drilling the industry standard and what some of the key benefits to choosing HDD are.
Are you looking for steerable trenchless drilling contractors?
The global horizontal directional drilling market is expected to grow to $14.95 billion by 2022, and for good reason. Trenchless drilling is not only cost-effective but it’s also eco-friendly and takes less time than traditional drilling.
If you’re looking for steerable trenchless boring contractors, American Directional Boring has what you need to get the job done. To learn more about trenchless pipe drilling and other means of underground drilling for your projects, contact the Texas directional drilling contractors of American Directional Boring today.
