How Does Directional Drilling Works?
Directional drilling, also known as HDD, is a cost-effective and eco-friendly method used to bury pipes and cables under obstacles like roads and rivers. This innovative approach not only saves time and money but also provides an efficient solution for construction projects.
Civil Horizontal Directional Drilling Explained
Civil horizontal directional drilling is an innovative and efficient method used to bury pipes and cables under obstacles such as roads and rivers. Let’s take a closer look at how the process works.
To begin, the drilling process involves establishing a bore path and carefully locating existing utilities. Entry and exit pits are strategically chosen for the drilling operation. It’s crucial to ensure the proper setup and safety of equipment at each location.
Once the drilling begins, the operator guides the drill pipe and tracks its progress using a tracking beacon. A drill-head tracker monitors the depth, position, and area of the drill string’s head within the housing. Drilling fluids play a vital role in the process. A fluid mixer prepares the drilling fluids, which flow through the drill bit, ensuring efficient cutting and cleaning of the borehole. Choosing the right drilling fluids is essential, as different soil conditions require specific fluid properties. Any excess drilling fluid is removed using a vacuum excavator.
After completing the pilot bore, it is typically enlarged to one and a half times the diameter of the new conduit or pipe that will be installed. This enlargement is achieved by using a back reamer, either through a multi-step pre-reaming process or by pulling the product in with a swivel and initial back reaming. Finally, a mud mixture is used to fill the space around the pipe and cable. Each horizontal directional drilling project presents its own unique challenges. Factors such as selecting the correct drill size and bit configuration, understanding soil conditions, and choosing the appropriate HD tooling must be carefully considered for successful execution. If you require more information about civil horizontal directional drilling or if you have a project to discuss, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team of experts is well-versed in all aspects of this field. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in directional drilling, we invite you to explore our currently available jobs. Additionally, if you need assistance preparing for an interview, you can find helpful interview questions and answers on our website. If you’re unsure about which job role suits you best, we provide descriptions of various roles, from Supervisor to Pit and pipe Crew to Traffic Controllers in directional drilling.
We hope this information helps, and we look forward to assisting you in any way we can.