This pullback operation is accomplished as the rig rotates and pulls on the drill string until the pipeline is in place.Īfter all is done, we run a series of rigorous tests to ensure the integrity of the installation. Once the hole is sufficiently enlarged, the pipe is attached to the end of the bore and is run through the hole using a reamer. The final stage in the process is installation. The slurry ensures the integrity of the hole and allows cuttings to be flushed out. Reamers are attached at the opposite end of the pilot hold and pulled back into the initial hole while slurry is progressively pumped out. During this part of the process, the hole is enlarged to the point where it can accommodate the piping system you are trying to install. This next process involves widening the initial hole created by using a reamer. Once the drilling process begins, an electric transmitter (placed directly behind the drill head) sends a signal back to the operator who then ensures the drill is continuing along its intended path and can make course corrections as needed. We also meticulously plan out the bore route, taking into consideration other underground piping and lines that already may be in place. We strategically place entrance and exit areas in order to cut down on the disturbance to the surface level. We take special care during this initial stage in the process. The first step in the process is to create what is called a pilot hole.
As long as the pipes you are using have the thickness and material strength to withstand the stress, they can be utilized.ĭirectional drilling is just another way ClearPath is showing its commitment to leaving as little surface damage as possible while offering a full range of underground utility services.ĭirectional drilling is a fairly simple process that consists of three phases. Even then, the amount of surface space needed to accomplish directional drilling is minimal.ĭirectional drilling can be used with many different types of pipe materials, including PVC, ductile iron, steel, polypropylene, and polyethylene.
The most common uses of directional drilling is to install pipes, conduits, or cables in areas where traditional open cut construction is difficult to achieve.ĭirectional drilling follows a pre-planned path, creating a minimal amount of impact because it uses a relatively shallow arc.Īlmost the entirety of the drilling process is done underground, with the exception of the entry and exit sites of the drill bit. No longer do you have to deal with large crews digging up the ground for weeks or even months to get a single job done. With the advent of horizontal directional drilling (also known as directional boring, depending upon the scale of the job), the entire process has been revolutionized. Not long ago, the only way to install new piping underground - or even make simple repairs - was to tear apart the ground and ruin the landscape in a time-consuming trench digging process.
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