Overcoming Obstacles by Diving Beneath Them

摘要

What happens when the proposed route of a gas pipeline or water main intersects wetlands, an archeological site, or a congested urban area? Traditionally, engineers would design the pipeline to either go through the obstruction or around it- not necessarily appealing options given that both would likely require additional permits, extend project schedules, and increase costs. However, horizontal directional drilling (HDD) offers an alternative. An evolving trenchless construction technology, it enables engineers and pipeline contractors to avoid sensitive or other potentially troublesome sites by drilling beneath them.