702.651.8100
2222 W. Cheyenne Ave., Suite C
Las Vegas, NV 89032
Directional drilling or horizontal directional drilling (HDD) is a trenchless construction method that uses a specialized drill rig to install underground utilities, such as gas lines, electrical lines, and communication lines. Directional drilling is a minimal-impact method that allows Terra Contracting to install utilities without disrupting the surface, which can save time and money, and reduce environmental impact.
How Directional Drilling Works
- This method works by drilling a pilot hole along the desired path of the utility. The pilot hole is then enlarged to accommodate the utility pipe or cable. The utility pipe or cable is then pulled through the enlarged hole using a winch.
- The directional drill rig is typically positioned at the entry point of the utility and then drills the pilot hole along the desired path. The pilot hole is drilled using a drill bit that is attached to a long, flexible drill string. The drill string is rotated by the drill rig, which causes the drill bit to rotate and drill through the ground.
- Once the pilot hole is drilled, the directional drill rig is used to enlarge the hole to accommodate the utility pipe or cable. This is done using a backreamer, which is a tool that is attached to the drill string. The backreamer is pulled through the pilot hole, which enlarges the hole to the desired diameter.
- Once the hole is enlarged, the utility pipe or cable is pulled through the hole using a winch. The utility pipe or cable is attached to a pulling head, which is pulled through the hole by the winch.
Benefits Of Directional Drilling
Directional drilling offers a number of benefits over traditional trenching methods, including:
- Minimal surface disruption: directional drilling allows contractors to install utilities without disrupting the surface, which can minimize traffic disruption, protect landscaping, and reduce the risk of environmental damage.
- Faster installation time: directional drilling can be used to install utilities more quickly than traditional trenching methods, especially for projects that involve long distances or difficult-to-access areas.
- Reduced costs: directional drilling can be more cost-effective than traditional trenching methods, especially for projects that involve minimal surface disruption or difficult-to-access areas.
- Increased safety: directional drilling is a safer method of installing utilities than traditional trenching methods because it reduces the risk of accidents, such as cave-ins and blowouts.
Applications Of Directional Drilling
Terra Contracting uses directional drilling for a variety of applications, including:
- Installing gas lines: directional drilling can be used to install gas lines under roads, railroads, and other obstacles without disrupting the surface.
- Installing electrical lines: directional drilling can be used to install electrical lines under roads, railroads, and other obstacles without disrupting the surface.
- Installing communication lines: directional drilling can be used to install communication lines, such as fiber optic cables, under roads, railroads, and other obstacles without disrupting the surface.
Directional drills are versatile and powerful tools that can be used by Terra Contracting to install utilities in a variety of challenging environments. It is a safe, efficient, and cost-effective method that can minimize surface disruption and reduce environmental impact in the community.
Terra Contracting is a leading provider of directional drilling services for underground utility construction in Las Vegas and throughout the Southwest. Contact us today to learn more about our directional drilling services and how we can help you with your next project.
