Have you ever wondered how cables or pipelines are installed under a lake or river? One solution is directional drilling, also known as horizontal directional drilling (HDD). With this advanced drilling technique, the drilling rig is located on one side of the water body, and the drill bit is guided in a curved path to the other side. So, if you think that you might need this type of service, what do you need to bear in mind?

What's the First Step?

The drilling process begins with the rig setup on one side of the lake or river. The first step is to drill a vertical hole into the ground. The drill pipe is then pulled back slowly, creating a curved path towards the target location on the opposite shore. A wireline is used to guide the bit's path and ensure that it stays on course. The wireline is attached to the drill bit and sent through the drill pipe. This wireline allows the operator to steer the bit in real-time from the surface.

What Happens Next?

Once the curved hole is created, a reamer removes soil and rock to enlarge the hole to the desired diameter. Depending on the project requirements, the diameter of the whole can be varied. The enlarged hole provides a space for the pipeline or cable to be installed. Once the hole is complete, the pipeline or cable can be installed with the necessary support equipment.

How Does This Help the Environment?

One of the significant advantages of directional drilling is the minimal impact on the environment. Since the drill rig is set up on land, there is no need for excavation or destruction of the habitat surrounding the water body. Additionally, the HDD method allows for the installation of pipelines and cables without disrupting the natural flow and habitats of the body of water.

What about the Budget?

The directional drilling method is also cost-effective. By installing the pipeline or cable under the water, you can avoid the expense of bridge or causeway construction. Directional drilling allows you to avoid permits and site access issues and reduce the amount of restoration required once the project is completed.

What to Remember

In conclusion, directional drilling is a method that involves drilling a curved hole beneath a body of water, which allows for the installation of pipelines or cables without disturbing the environment. The technique is increasingly popular in the world of oil and gas, telecommunications and utility infrastructures for its efficiency and low impact on the environment. It is a reliable and cost-effective way to move anything from one end of a water body to another, ensuring that the environment remains protected. So, if a body of water is an obstacle in the way of your plans, get in touch with a directional drilling expert for advice.

Contact a local company to learn more about directional drilling.