What is Directional Boring?
Directional boring is a trenchless method of underground pipe installation. Underground drilling companies use horizontal boring machines to drill a pilot hole. The pilot hole is able to enter and exit at predetermined locations, and even change direction to avoid underground obstructions and pre-existing lines. From the pilot hole, new sewer lines, water lines, and conduit lines can be installed without a pre-existing line.
What is Missile Boring?
Missile boring is a method of point-to-point horizontal underground boring. For years, it has been utilized as the standard for the installation of public utilities. Since missile boring does not involve trenching, it is considered invaluable technology since it can be used when faced with a variety of obstacles, such as:
- Buildings
- Roadways
- Parking lots
- Sidewalks
How Does Directional Drilling Work?
Directional drilling starts with establishing a pilot hole. After the site has been prepped, a horizontal boring machine is moved into place and a bore head is connected to a hollow pipe that enters the ground at an angle. After the boring exists at a predetermined location, a reamer is attached. Once attached, the reamer expands the existing pilot hole to ready it for a new line. Finally, the new line is pulled through the opening that was created. Once successfully in place, the ends of the line are connected.
How Does Missile Boring Work?
Missile boring starts with locating lines and marking for any underground work. Then, a crew surveys the area and the obstacles present in order to determine the best path for the missile. Next, a hole is dug at each end of the bore. The machine operator will align the missile in the starting pit so it reaches the exit pit. After the bore is complete, the sleeve or conduit is placed. A good underground drilling company will leave the area neat and intact.
Which One is Better?
Missile boring and directional boring are both great underground drilling methods. They’re both ideal when you don’t want to do trench digging, and both methods limit destruction to the ground. If you have questions about which method is best for your project, talking to an experienced underground drilling contractor in MD can give you the answers you need.
An Underground Drilling Company in MD
Unlimited Underground is an underground drilling company that helps businesses and government agencies build the underground infrastructure they need. No matter if you need underground drilling for utility installation, telecommunications infrastructure, or something completely different, Unlimited Underground can help. With over 20 years of experience, we understand the various methods of underground drilling and can create a plan that is right for you and your business.
Give us a call or contact us online today to get started.