The Process and Various Uses for Non-destructive Digging

People have realized that mechanical digging can be very destructive. This is the reason why the technology of non-destructive digging is starting to get more popular. These machines and equipment used in mechanical digging can be the cause of many problems especially when the hit or get in contact with pipes, cables, wires and lines that are buried underground. These are just some of the assets, utilities and infrastructure that can get damaged and can in turn cause bigger problems. Aside from work delays and added expenses for repairs, it can get very dangerous not only for the workers but also for the people in the surrounding areas.

Non-destructive digging on the other hand, only uses an excavator truck that has the tools needed to do the digging. There are two ways to do this, these are hydro excavation and air vacuum excavation. Though they use either air or water, both ways basically work the same way. High powered jets of water or air are used to break the ground. These then loosen the soil material and other debris and breaking them up into small pieces. While this is being done, an industrial strength vacuum simultaneously takes out the soil and excess water. These are stored directly in the special holding tanks. The water and air used in non-destructive digging are powerful enough to break the ground yet it avoids causing damage to those buried assets and utilities. Storing these in holding tanks also make it easier to dispose. Non-destructive digging avoids dangerous situations like electrocution cause by a cut power line, flooding because of a burst water pipe, gas leak or explosion from a damaged gas pipe.

Being a non-destructive digging process, this can then have various uses that mechanical digging cannot do or if it can be done, it still will involve many risks that can be dangerous. There are other industries that are sensitive and non-destructive digging can be very useful in. These are:

• potholing for sewers, water pipes, telecommunication lines, gas pipes
• making holes for tree planting and remediation
• straightening electric or power poles
• coring to get soil samples
• verify the exact positions of service
• excavations around subterranean assets
• excavation post and street lights
• excavate trenches under sidewalks, footpaths, driveways and trees
• excavate contaminated soil and avoid exposure to humans and to the environment
• installations of repair in refineries, factories and power plants with sensitive buried infrastructures
• pit cleaning and pipe jetting
• excavation on an area with a sensitive ecosystem 

Added to these various uses, non-destructive digging is also cheaper to use than mechanical digging. It can be used anywhere without too much worry about the problems that can occur. It is gaining popularity and it is best if more people get to know about it and try it out not only for construction but for other uses that involve digging.

There are many companies out there that provide either of the two or both of the non-destructive digging ways. These companies can be searched through the yellow pages or online.

Looking for non-destructive digging services? We here at YunzContracting can help. Just visit our site to find out more.

What is there to Know about Non-destructive Digging?

Digging and excavation is an essential part in almost all construction needs. there are also industries that need these in their installations and repairs. Some of these areas and industries are very sensitive that is why there is a need for a better and safer way of digging aside from the traditional methods which are the mechanical and manual ones. The safer and better way of digging and excavation is the method called non-destructive digging. This is also known as NDD, potholing or vacuum excavation.

The non-destructive digging method is named as such because it can break the ground, loosen the soil, excavate it and make a hole without causing damage to any of the important assets and utilities underground. The reason that this method can safely do the digging and excavation is because of the equipment and tools are that used. Non-destructive digging can be achieved in two ways these are hydro excavation and air vacuum excavation. 

Hydro excavation uses high pressure water to break the ground. This then loosens the soil and other debris like rocks. These, together with the excess water and slurry are simultaneously vacuumed out by a special nozzle and directed straight into a special holding tank for easy disposal. Air vacuum excavation uses high pressure air coming from a special nozzle to break the ground and loosen the earth material and other debris. As with hydro excavation, there is also a vacuum nozzle that simultaneously takes out the soils, rocks and debris to be stored in the holding tank. This can readily be available for back filling if needed. If not, then this can be disposed of easily. Water and air make a difference because these are powerful enough to break the ground but gentle on the different pipes, cables, lines and tanks that are in the way. 

As compared to the traditional digging methods, non-destructive digging avoids the risks of problems that damage on the utilities and assets can cause. It does not use heavy equipment or sharp tools that can cut, burst or damage things like gas pipes, electric cables, water pipes, sewer systems and the like. When things like this can happen, it can be more dangerous to the workers, the people around and it will add to the unexpected expenses needed for repairs. Just imagine the problems a burst water pipe, cut electric cable or burst gas pipe can cause.

Aside from these, there are other benefits to using the non-destructive digging method in any of the projects where digging and excavation works are needed. These are:

• It can be used in small spaces or tight areas. It can even be used in sensitive areas that heavy equipment cannot get into because it might destroy the area. Non-destructive digging ways can be used off site using the long hoses.
• It is safe for the environment. There is less noise and air pollution.
• This method is more cost efficient.
• It is precise, no need for back jobs.

Knowing these things about non-destructive digging shows why it should be used over the traditional methods. More and more people should know about it.

Looking for non-destructive digging services? We here at YunzContracting can help. Just visit our site at non-destructive digging to find out more.

Non-destructive Excavation: Hydro Excavation Method

Non-destructive excavation technology has become an important technology that is used in many industry applications these days. This is because non-destructive excavation makes it possible for the digging, excavation or exposure of underground utilities without the risk of doing damage or destruction.

Hydro excavation is a method used to in non-destructive excavation technology. This method is non-mechanical. Highly pressurized water is used to break into the ground and excavate the soil materials, rocks and other debris. As this is done, an industrial strength vacuum simultaneously sucks out all the mud, water slurry and debris to be stored in a special holding tank. The main component which is water is safe to use around the assets and utilities underground. There is very little danger that gas pipes, water pipes, electric cables, telecommunication lines, sewer systems and the like can be damaged.

It is precisely called as non-destructive excavation because unlike mechanical or manual excavation, it will not cause damage to those utilities it may reach. The reason for this is that manual or mechanical excavation uses materials, machines and equipment that may have sharp edges or too much pressure. Hydro excavation can also do the job in a more precise way that will require less back fill or back job. The process is safe and fast. It does not use a lot of equipment which means it require less workers to operate it and it can be used in smaller areas with limited space to move around in. Hydro excavation is also environmentally friendly.

Here are some examples where the hydro excavation method as a means of non-destructive excavation can be used:

·         Potholing or Daylighting- this process is usually done for installation of signs, telecommunication poles, light posts, fences and the like.

·         Slot trenching- hydro excavation makes it possible to create narrow trenches that are needed for the installation of pipes, cables, and other in-ground utilities. Hydro excavation can be used even if the ground is frozen. The water used is heated. This non-destructive excavation method makes installation of sprinklers, location of underground utilities and other underground installation easy and safe.

·         Removal of Debris- hydro excavation is the best method to use to for catch basin cleaning, cleaning of spills and sludge removal. This will make sure that the surrounding area will not be damaged.

·         Remote digging- When there is a remote area where repairs on buried pipes, fiber optic cables and the like are needed, hydro excavation can be used. The equipment used can be located farther from the actual site to make sure that there is no damage done on the actual site. Restoration work is minimized or avoided.

The different advantages and uses of hydro excavation just proves the importance of the non-destructive excavation technology.  This does all the functions of mechanical or manual digging in a safer and more cost-effective way. It is no wonder that this technology is slowly starting to take the place of the traditional way of digging. More and more people are starting to see the need to switch to non-destructive excavation.

Looking for non destructive digging services? We here at Yunz Contracting can help. Just visit our site to find out more.

Which Non-destructive Excavation Method should you Use

Non-destructive excavation has gained popularity and is more widely used in construction projects these days because of several reasons. First, it is a safe way to do diggings and excavations. It is safe for the workers as well as safe for the people within the surroundings. The reason for this is that non-destructive excavation is not as risky as mechanical digging. The utilities and assets that are buried underground are safe from damage. If electric cables get cut while excavating, power outage can ensue or someone can get electrocuted. A burst gas pipe can cause an explosion. These are some things that can be avoided when using non-destructive excavation methods.

Another reason is that it more cost efficient. It does not require many machines or workers. The projects are also done in a shorter period of time. The excavation is also more precise. It does not require back jobs.

There are two methods that non-destructive excavation can be achieved. These are hydro excavation and air vacuum excavation.

Hydro excavation uses water as the main component. High pressure water is used to break the ground and loosen the soil and other earth materials. The mud that is created as well as other debris is then vacuumed out using a special nozzle which is stored in a special holding tank. Hydro excavation can be used on just about any type of soil. It can even be used on frozen ground using hot water. The downside is that it needs thousands of litres of water just to be able to do the excavation.  Not all areas have an available water source that can spare this amount of water. It can also get messy and dangerous because of the slippery mud.

Air vacuum excavation on the other hand uses high pressure air to break the ground and loosen the soil. A special nozzle then suck out all the dry materials using a vacuum which is then stored in a holding tank. The materials that are stored can readily be used for back filling jobs if needed. The downside of this method is that it cannot be used for all soil types. Frozen ground is something that the high pressure air cannot break into. It can also make the area dusty.

The method that is recommended because it is cheaper more easily available is air vacuum excavation. It also does a cleaner job because it leaves the area dry. However, it may depend also on the type of soil that your property has.

Whichever method you choose, you still get all the good benefits from it. Both methods are still better to the conventional mechanical digging which can be risky and dangerous. If you want to know what method can be used for your area, you can get in touch with companies that provide non-destructive excavation services. They will be able to tell you what can be used. While you are at it, you can also ask for a quotation so you know the costs.

Looking for non destructive digging services? We here at Yunz Contracting can help. Just visit our site to find out more. 

Hydro Vacuum Excavation: Safe, Accurate and Non-Destructive Digging

One non-destructive digging method that civil contractors can use for their digging or trenching purposes is the hydro vacuum excavation. This method uses a vacuum/suction mechanism to break up the ground and collect excavated materials. The use of this method can bring in the long-awaited need of safety and better work results in many construction projects. How can hydro vacuum excavation benefit the digging or trenching crew?

Emphasis on Workplace Safety

Digging operations at construction and any other civil work projects can become dangerous at time, with many occupational hazards about waiting to happen from the careless use of equipment and leaving excavations unsupported. Even if you are not a civil contractor, you would really know the importance of workplace safety and proper work flow. Sadly, not all contractors and workers do care about this. With deadlines to meet, of what use are safety rules and regulations?

And that’s where hazards can occur. How many news items have you read or watched about construction workers damaging underground pipelines and cable networks and disrupting utility services in the process? What about workers being injured from collapsed excavations? What about the number of cases of fatalities? Where is safety in here if workers do not make their workplace safe or if they use dangerous work methods?

What is Hydro Vacuum Excavation?

Hydro vacuum excavation is a non-destructive digging method and one of the two vacuum excavation methods (the other being air vacuum excavation). Along with air vacuum, hydro vacuum is utilised to replace the more destructive conventional digging and trenching methods in certain sites, especially where there is underground utility assets. In a situation where buried pipelines, cable networks and other assets need to be exposed or day lighted, this is the method to be used and not excavating by mechanical drills, backhoes, crane loaders and shovels.

As the term suggests, hydro vacuum excavation utilises pressurised water in breaking up the ground. That’s for the non-mechanical and non-destructive digging purpose, and did we mention about collecting excavated spoils? It also makes use of high flowing and moving air to collect the excavated material through a vacuum hose or tube into the debris storage tank. These double functions are made possible with the equipment called suction excavator which combines the functions of a crane loader and dump truck - multi purposes of single equipment.

Applications for Hydro Vacuum Excavation

It is never that difficult and laborious to operate a truck or trailer mounted suction excavator. Just one or two personnel will do. Moreover, you can bring this equipment wherever non-destructive digging is greatly needed. Hydro vacuum excavation can be applied along a busy motorway, near public places (like schools and hospitals), near existing building and structures and in protected nature.

Aside from digging and trenching, hydro vacuum excavation can also be used for other civil works including pressure cleaning, tank and pit cleaning and removal of wastes. 

Results Guaranteed

Hydro excavation eliminates the need for manual labour and cuts down on work hours and operation costs. It helps reduce work stoppage caused by inaccurate excavation and workplace accidents and damages. It also helps save time and resources which are wasted in manual digging and operation of machines. Being a non-mechanical, eco-friendly and non-destructive digging method, hydro vacuum emphasises safe, accurate, efficient and cost-effective digging results.

Please contact Yunz Contracting and visit our website if you are needing non-destructive digging for your commercial or industrial projects. 

Safety Guidelines for Electric Power line Installation and Maintenance

Almost everything these days is somehow connected to electricity. Especially with all the new developments in technology and gadgets, electricity has become one of the most important and most used utilities. However, it is also one of the most sensitive, dangerous and expensive especially in terms of safety and maintenance.

There are many workers that work in different areas from the source until the electrical power itself reaches the users. These are not just any workers, these people are highly trained and qualified to do the job, from power line installation to repairs and maintenance.  The work presents greater risks and hazards because workers are in contact with high voltage power lines. Any mistake can cause injury or even death by electrocution. This is why it is important for to know these safety guidelines to avoid accidents from happening.

When high voltage systems are involved, do not work alone. There should be another person who is either a qualified electrical worker or even just an experienced employee in training when doing something that involves high voltage systems. This is to make sure that when something goes or case of an emergency, there is back up help.

Make sure that equipment used work properly and are well maintained. Since power lines are buried under ground, the use of heavy equipment is employed.  Like in case where a new power line installation is required, diggers and backhoes will be used to dig holes. These machines are powerful and should only be used by those trained to operate it. These should also be checked regularly before using so that they will be not be a cause for accidents. Also, proper training for the use of the equipment should be taught and updated.

Get all information needed regarding trenching and engulfment and its hazards. These are important because workers need to be safe and if they know what they are doing at the same time what they are not supposed to do, then accidents and injuries can be avoided. Training on what to do in cases of emergency should also be provided.

If work is done on high power line poles, safety guidelines and training should also be in place. It is important for one to know how to work in high places. Knowing how to bring up equipment, materials and even how to safely go up and down is as important. Training on what to do in cases of emergency especially while up on the pole is also a must.

People who work in this industry need to be safe because they work with something that is an essential part of day to day activities. They need to know safety not only for themselves but for everyone as well. Electricity and that hazards it can cause is not something to be taken lightly. If you are interested to know more about this there is a lot of information from books or you can search online. The information is good for everyone to know but better especially for those who are interested in this field or know people who do this kind of job.

Looking for non destructive digging services? We here at Yunz Contracting can help. Just visit our site  to find out more. 

Non-destructive Digging and Its Functions

Diggings and excavations are important part in most construction projects. In the past, the methods used were either mechanical or manual digging. The problem with these two methods is that it either can be a cause of great damage and destruction to underground utilities and assets. Located underground is a web of important and vital utilities like gas and water pipes, sewers, electric and phone cables.  If a backhoe or even just a hand shovel hit a part of one of these, it can cause damage leading to work delays and costly repairs. A burst water pipe or cut electric cable can be a reason to stop operations to give way for repairs needed. Work delays, together with remediation costs will result to more money and time wasted.

The development of non-destructive digging is the answer to this problem that contractors usually face in construction projects. In this method, high pressure air or water is used to break up and loosen the soil, or clay. All the soil, waste and excess water are then vacuumed out into holding tanks using a specially designed nozzle. Air or water as the medium used in making holes is not as risky in causing any damage as compared to machines likes excavators, backhoes and shovels.  Clean up is also a breeze therefore work is faster and more efficient.

Aside from minimizing the hazards to underground utilities, this method is also safer for the trained people who do the job. Risks of injuries are minimal. This, together with knowing that utilities are more protected gives contractors and owners peace of mind, free from too much worry from possible work disruptions and costly damages. 

Non-destructive digging is also beneficial to the environment. It leaves less impact on the surroundings. Even tree roots can be protected and left unharmed from the digging. Foot paths and sidewalks can remain virtually the same after a digging is done within the vicinity. If the digging is done near roads, non-destructive digging also makes it possible for less disruption in traffic flow. Less materials used as well as fewer workers do not cause a big obstruction.

If you want to consider the use of non destructive-digging and see the benefits it can give, then you can go online and look for companies or contractors that provide this kind of service. Searching online is the easiest and fastest way to do this. Try to narrow your search for those nearest the area where the project is located. Check out several websites and see who offers the best service at a fair price. Check the previous projects they have done. Get one that has been in the business for a long time and has a good history of satisfied customers and successful projects. You do not only want to protect you utilities but the whole property and the environment as well. 

It will do you know harm to try this method. You may actually find out for yourself that it will give great results, more than what you expect. 

Looking for non-destructive digging services? We here at Yunz Contracting can help. Just visit our site to find out more. 

Why Should You Choose Non Destructive Digging for Your Next Digging Projects

Diggings have many uses in construction projects. In the past, there have been stories of diggings gone wrong due to the damage caused to underground utilities. Imagine drilling through power lines causing loss of electricity or even burst water pipes causing serious flooding in the area. Other underground utilities that can be damaged through conventional drilling are gas pipes, telecommunication lines and sewage lines. Not only will damage to these wires and pipes cost a lot of money but delays and inconveniences are to be dealt with as well. This is something you do not want to happen while a digging in your property. The answer to this is non destructive digging. You may be sceptical if you do not really know about this. Below you will find more information and the benefits that you can get from this.

Non destructive digging which is also known as hydro excavation or vacuum excavation. This is a process of digging wherein high pressure water is used to loosen up the soil. The loose soil, together with excess water and other debris are then vacuumed out and directed into holding tanks using specially designed nozzles. Unlike mechanical digging which uses machines and heavy equipment to create holes, the use of water is a gentler and less risky alternative.  

The use of non destructive digging benefits everyone who is involved in the project. Worries of causing damage and costs for repairs is very minimal therefore giving everyone peace of mind. Sticking the budget is a top priority in most projects these days so costs that are kept to a minimum are always a big help. The equipment and the process used lessens the harmful the effects on the environment and even tree root systems underground can be left unharmed. 

The whole process also does not take as much time because even clean-up is a breeze since most of the debris are vacuumed out simultaneously as the digging is done. If the digging project is done in a roadside area or pedestrian walkways, this will not cause much disruption to traffic flow. Less people working with less equipment which are not too big will not be a problem to daily activity in the area. Overall, non destructive digging is cost efficient, safe and gentler on the environment. 

If non destructive digging is something you want to try for your next project, it would be best to check the companies that can do this for you. You can go online to take a look at company websites. These sites will be detailed to give you a better idea of how it really works. They have contact details that you can use to get in touch with them for any queries or questions. You just have to keep in mind that the company you work with is one that is reputable. Try to check the projects they have done in the past so you will know if they do a good job. This is to make sure that what you pay them for is worth it.

Looking for non destructive digging services? We here at Yunz Contracting can help. Just visit our site to find out more.

How to Find the Right Excavation Service Provider

Do you have an incoming construction or installation project? At this time, you should be searching for a excavation/digging contractor. Here are a few tips to help you find one:

Assess Your Project

What are you excavating for? Are you digging for a building construction project or for a utility installation project? Are you installing underground utilities, swimming pool, fallout shelter, irrigation system or what? Your choice of excavation method will depend on your project proposal.

Huge construction projects will require the use of heavy equipment like backhoes and crane loaders. But they can also be accompanied by suction excavators or any non-destructive excavation equipment. For small projects, it is not advisable to use heavy equipment and the option would be the use of suction excavator, either truck mounted or trailer mounted.

Assess Your Proposed Excavation Site

Moreover, your choice of excavation method will depend on the location itself. For instance, backhoes, crane loaders and other large machineries are not allowed in pristine environments. Contractors will need to consider manual digging, mechanical drilling or non-destructive excavation.

At times, workers are not allowed to operate large machineries and mechanical drills near schools, hospitals, homes for the aged and other establishments where excessive noise and vibration can cause great concern or noise pollution. Perhaps the workers should use manual digging or operate the suction excavator equipment.

If there are underground utilities in your proposed site, it is not advisable to use conventional digging methods. They damage or tear buried facilities apart and cause fire hazards, electrocution, explosion and pollution. The secondary effects are work delay or stoppage and injuries and fatalities. Mechanical drilling and manual digging are not even recommended. The recommended method would be non-destructive excavation, especially air or water vacuum excavation.

If you are having a swimming pool installed in your backyard, operating a small crane loader would be good for the task. But if you don’t want damages to your landscape, the suction excavator should be the preferred digging equipment.

Look For Excavation Contractors

Look for excavation contractors who can provide the most efficient service for your project. If you don’t know how to begin your search, there are certain venues where you can start:

• Internet – Many civil works contractors who offer digging/excavation services could be online. Key in certain keywords, ‘digging contractors’, ‘trench digging contractors’, or ‘non-destructive excavation’. Check if they offer the kind of digging service you need. Many contractors today offer both traditional and non-destructive digging services.
• Classified ad – Major broadsheets and magazines have listing of various civil construction services.
• Your local business or commerce board – Your local business bureau has a list of all digging contractors in your town or city. They are registered and licensed to service you.
• Referrals – Perhaps your neighbour knows of a non-destructive excavation contractor. They can help recommend you to them.

Keep a list of contractors that you would want to hire. Present your project proposal and show to them your proposed site. What methods can they recommend? How are they going to accomplish your project? Get their say on your proposal.

Perhaps they have other recommendations and solutions to how your project can be done and completed. Listen to them. They could have something better.

May these tips help you find the best excavation contractor for your project! Whether your method would be conventional or non-destructive excavation, it pays to hire the right professional to provide you the best service.

Yunz Contracting is a level 1 ASP non-destructive excavation provider. Please contact us today for professional and efficient digging service. Please visit our website too.

Air Vacuum Excavation as a Preferred Non-Destructive Excavation

Construction work is very dangerous, especially if there is some sort of excavation involved. So the first time the construction crew should do is to locate and expose any underground assets which include telecommunication cable networks, electricity cables, water pipelines, oil pipelines and underground tunnels. However, utility location can get dangerous at times because of the use of tools and equipment like mechanical drills, sharp pickaxes and huge earthmovers. Should not they be using non-destructive excavation methods?

The use of mechanical drills, sharp hand-held tools and huge earthmoving equipment can many times do more harm and good, more damage than smooth work flow. Workers tend to use them carelessly and in violation to proper work procedures, one of which is parking vehicles too close to the edge of a trench or excavation. So instead of exposing and protecting the buried assets (which they are supposed to do), they damage them, thus causing work stoppage, injuries and disruption of vital utility services.

For civil work contractors who are wary about using the aforementioned tools, they can utilise a non-destructive excavation method which is air vacuum excavation. How does this method fare against conventional digging methods?

Air vacuum excavation is a non-destructive digging, trenching and earth removal method. Being non-destructive, it is safe and easy to use. One of the benefits of air vacuum excavation is that the method is applicable in areas not fit for heavy equipment to access. It only uses a high powered vacuuming equipment to generate high pressurised air to break the soil or surface and suction or suck up dirt, loose soil or any debris.

In terms of safety, the air vacuum/suction excavator works safely around networks of underground pipes and cables. Pressurised air will not damage such utilities and you can even adjust the pressure of the air, thus preventing any hazards associated with damages to underground utilities. The excavation crew can eliminate or minimise the risk of electrocution, explosion and flooding.

More on safety, the excavation crew can help ensure the structural integrity of surrounding structures and the trenches and excavations. With no excavator tearing cables and pipes, no crane loader swinging and other machinery vibrating near unsupported excavation, no one is going to get harmed.

With regards to public safety, air vacuum excavation generates less noise. With this, excavating near homes and establishments would not become a public disturbance.

In terms of convenience, you can operate the suction excavator in limited and tight spaces where huge equipment cannot easily access and where large scale damage is not allowed like your backyard and pristine environment. This is convenient with the fact that you don’t need a dump truck and crane loader to collect excavated spoils as the long vacuum hose of the equipment can collect them into the debris storage tank.

The use of non-destructive excavation in the form of air vacuum excavation can replace the tedious and back-aching manual digging which often requires manpower and hours for completion and eliminate the occupational hazards brought by huge machineries. This method can help ensure productivity is not lost on inaccurate work results and accidents, maximise work hours and reduce delay.

For your non-destructive excavation needs, please contact Yunz Contracting today. You can also visit our website.