Why Horizontal Directional Drilling Is Increasingly Being Used for Borehole Installation
Posted on: 14 October 2021
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While traditional drilling of boreholes in a vertical direction still has its place in today's drilling industry, the use of the horizontal directional boring (HDD) method has been on the rise in recent decades. This can be attributed to the fact that drilling contractors are increasingly becoming aware of the many great advantages it offers. This new drilling method involves drilling bores in a horizontal direction rather than going straight.
If you're wondering why many modern drilling contractors use directional drilling for well water drilling purposes, continue reading to acquaint yourself with some key benefits associated with directional drilling of boreholes.
Fast results
One of the biggest advantages of horizontal directional drilling is that it allows for quick installation of boreholes. Sophisticated water detection technologies such as the ground-penetrating radar (GPR) systems are used to locate underground reservoirs of water. These water reserves are called aquifers.
Once the location of the water aquifers is known, contractors determine the shortest horizontal path that can be used to reach the water. This achieves quick borehole installation as drilling contractors can avoid any obstacles that may lie directly above the groundwater.
More effective drainage of the target water reserves
HDD provides better access to groundwater sources as it can be used to steer clear of the path of any geological formations that may make it difficult to draw a maximum amount of water from your borehole.
The angled design of horizontally drilled bores allows well users to fetch water at efficiency rates not possible with traditional wells.
Minimal surface disturbance
The open-cut methods used in the vertical drilling of boreholes create huge holes that will need to be backfilled at the end of the borewell installation process. These major excavations disrupt the harmony of land and its habitat. What's more, traditional drilling tends to generate giant piles of dirt on-site. These giant piles can create a big mess, making the work site unsightly and less safe for workers.
HDD, however, is a trenchless drilling technology that allows contractors to reach water reservoirs located several metres underground without excavating the surface of the ground to the desired depth. This helps to keep surface disturbance at a minimum.
One of the biggest drawbacks of horizontal directional drilling is cost. In general, this method costs more upfront than traditional drilling. However, it is an investment that pays for itself by allowing you to get more water from your target underground water reserves. If you need HDD or other well-drilling services, don't hesitate to contact a drilling contractor close to you. A directional drilling service can provide more information.