Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD)

HDD is a steerable trenchless method of installing underground pipes, conduits, and cables in a shallow arc along a prescribed bore path using a surface-launched drilling rig with minimal impact on the surrounding area. Directional boring is used when trenching or excavating is not practical. It suits various soil conditions and jobs, including road, landscape, and river crossings. Pipes can be made of materials such as PVC, polyethylene, polypropylene, Ductile Iron, and Steel if the pipes can be pulled through the drilled hole.

Utilizing this method of utility installation provides less traffic disruption, lower cost, deeper and/or longer installation, no access pits, shorter completion times, directional capabilities, and environmental safety. The technique is extensively used in urban areas for developing subsurface utilities as it helps avoid extensive open-cut trenches.