Overview of horizontal directional drilling for utility construction
By: by Alexander W. Barias
Publisher: Available from National Technical Information Service
Published: 1999
Place of publication: Springfield, Va
Language: eng
Description: Horizontal directional drilling (HDD) is a versatile form of utility construction and has seen enormous growth in the last decade as it offers a clear alternative to conventional methods. Drilling is conducted in both the vertical and horizontal direction and can be steered within limits, dependent upon subsurface conditions. HDD can install utilities from 1" to 48" in diameter and up to 6000 feet in length. The major utilities (gas, electric, telecommunications and water/sewer) can be installed with this technology. The construction process (pilot hole, reaming and pullback) along with the major components (drill rig, drill pipe, slurry, slurry recycling, survey equipment, drill bits, reamers and pipeline materials) will be discussed. The advantages of cost reduction, and environmental, social and time benefits will be examined in the context of numerous case studies. The challenges of proper soils information, subsurface conditions, training and knowledge, drilling fluids and binding of the drill pipe and reamer/bit will be discussed. Through constant innovation, HDD should remain state of the art for some time, and should be a consideration for the construction of any new utility within the size parameters.
Notes: "Summer 1999".

Thesis (Master of Engineering) University of Florida, Summer Session 1999.

Includes bibliographical references (leafs 56-57.

Approved for public release; distribution unlimited.

Also available online.

Mode of access: World Wide Web.

System requirements: Adobe Acrobat reader.

US Navy (USN) author.

dk/dk cc:9116 9/14/99