Overview
Digging deep slot trenches for utility line installation or repair using traditional mechanical excavation creates multiple risks, is difficult in cold weather, and is disruptive to local businesses. Hydro excavation reduces or eliminates all those risks, can be conducted year-round, and creates a compact, clean and spoil-free worksite.
The Challenge
Utility lines are often mis-mapped or left out entirely (2021 AGC Survey), particularly in urban areas, or areas with older infrastructure and recent construction that has altered documented landmarks. Conventional mechanical excavation risks accidental “discovery” of these service lines, resulting in costly damage, service interruption, and even, in the case of gas or electric lines, risk of severe operator injury. Pre-dig site mapping with geophysical technologies such as ground penetrating radar, magnetics, and electrical capacitance can reduce this risk, but are not always effective with non-magnetic pipe and are often less diagnostic at the greater depths often required for trenching (FHA Site Characterization). Manual excavation involving workers within the trench creates greater cave-in injury risk, even when following proper OSHA 29 CFR 1926.650 & 651 trench shoring standards. Finally, mechanical excavation requires additional space for trench spoil or separate equipment, such as a dump truck, to remove soil from the site, increasing jobsite footprint, and inconveniencing local residents and businesses.
The Solution
X-Vac’s powerful hydro excavation trucks feature both adjustable high pressure water delivery systems to cut away line overburden and powerful vacuum systems to remove the resulting slurry, all without the risk of utility damage. Cutting nozzle options and available boiler systems make short work of tough soils and keep the unit running even when the ground is frozen. Workers operate the system from outside of the trench, adjusting boom hose position and water flow using a standard wireless remote. Throughout the process, dirt is diverted into the debris body, eliminating the need for a dedicated spoil pile or separate dump truck parking area.
The Results
- Zero Utility Strikes: precise and impact-free excavation prevents damage to existing infrastructure, avoiding costly repairs, project delays, and customer service interruptions
- Enhanced Safety: significantly reduced risk to workers and nearby personnel
- On-Time Completion: no schedule interruptions, thanks to X-Vac’s all-weather construction and accessories, as well as fast debris offload features
- Minimal Disruption: small and self-contained operating footprint allows trenching to proceed with minimal impact on pedestrian traffic and surrounding businesses
Note
Hydrovac equipment must always be operated by a properly trained and competent worker, following all safe work practices and documented procedures for this type of equipment
