Thursday, November 28, 2013

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.