How it Works

Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) is a trenchless method used to install underground utilities, such as pipelines and conduits, with minimal surface disruption. The process begins with drilling a pilot hole along a pre-determined path using a steerable drill head. Operators guide the drill head remotely, ensuring it navigates accurately around existing infrastructure and natural obstacles. HDD is ideal for crossing roads, rivers, or heavily developed areas where traditional trenching would be too disruptive or costly.

Once the pilot hole is complete, the next step involves enlarging the borehole to the desired size using a reamer. This process, known as back-reaming, prepares the space to accommodate the utility pipe. Finally, the new pipe is pulled through the enlarged hole and into its final position. Throughout the process, a drilling fluid—typically a mixture of water and bentonite—is used to cool the drill head, stabilize the borehole, and remove cuttings.

HDD is a highly efficient and environmentally friendly technique, making it a preferred choice for modern infrastructure projects. Its ability to complete installations with minimal surface impact ensures reduced disruption to surrounding communities and ecosystems.