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The Benefits of Horizontal Boring
Horizontal boring, sometimes referred to as directional boring, horizontal directional drilling, slant drilling, or deviated drilling, is a method of laterally drilling holes in rock from a vertical well hole. In the oil and gas industry, horizontal boring involves drilling wells through a zone of oil or gas-bearing rock at angles from the vertical well hole. The oil or gas is extracted from the seam and then refined.
The technology is also used in the installation of utility pipelines: when pipelines need to make crossings under rivers, roads, and existing structures. A pilot hole is drilled along a pre-determined bore path from the surface with minimal disruption. Horizontal directional drilling crosses the breach that would otherwise be inaccessible using excavators or other traditional digging means.
The technique is an effective way to transport utilities via pipes and conduits without damaging the environment that lies in between two points. The technology is trenchless and can therefore be applied in situations where standard open-cut trenching techniques are impossible, like near rivers or roads or in populated areas. Horizontal drilling can be used for installing underground utilities in busy areas.
Trenching VS Horizontal Boring and Horizontal Directional Drilling
Traditional open-cut trenching techniques are the most common and most affordable way to install and connect utility pipelines. However, the method is limited by the environment and can only be used when the ground above the pipeline can be disturbed without harming nearby roads, buildings, or natural landmarks. Horizontal boring can be used in these situations and in hard-to-access areas.
The installation cost for trenching is usually six to eight times less than horizontal drilling. However, if the high price tag is excluded in a comparison, horizontal boring is more effective and more widely applicable. The two techniques are often used in tandem. Trenching is used in easy-to-access areas and is more cost-effective, while horizontal boring takes care of everything else at a higher price.
Drilling equipment, such as a drilling head or drill head, drill rod, drill string, and drill stem, is necessary for both horizontal boring and directional drilling. Factors that affect the efficiency of the drilling method include ground conditions and the presence of underground utilities.
Contact Tebco
At Tebco, we know that short lead times and no stoppages are the key requirements to support your horizontal boring needs. This is why we hold stock of key parts and offer full service back up. Call us on 0246772649 to place an order for any products or equipment available on our online store. We’re open for business Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. We eagerly look forward to hearing from you soon.