4 Reasons Why Hydro Excavation Outperforms Its Mechanical Counterpart

Hydro Excavation
  • Author: Fazal Umer
  • Posted On: August 19, 2023
  • Updated On: August 19, 2023

In recent years, Hydro Excavation in New England has gained increasing popularity for various construction and maintenance projects. This non-destructive excavation technique utilizes pressurized water and a vacuum system to safely remove soil and debris from beneath the ground. But why has hydro excavation gained such popularity and recognition? Here are four key reasons hydro excavation has a competitive edge over traditional digging methods.

1. Enhanced Precision and Accuracy

One of the most significant advantages of hydro excavation is its ability to provide greater precision and accuracy during the digging process. By using high-pressure water, it can easily cut through various soil types without causing unwanted damage to nearby infrastructure or utilities.

In contrast, mechanical excavation methods, such as backhoes or excavators, often require extra caution when operating near sensitive structures. Accidentally hitting underground pipes or cables can lead to costly repairs and project delays. Hydro excavation significantly reduces these risks – ensuring a more efficient and precise digging process.

2. Minimal Environmental Impact

A primary concern during any excavation project is minimizing harm to the surrounding environment. Hydro excavation addresses this by substantially reducing disturbances to both vegetation and wildlife habitats.

Mechanical methods tend to compact the soil, which can disrupt natural ecosystems and alter drainage patterns – leading to long-term consequences for the environment. In comparison, hydro excavation leaves the surrounding soil structure largely untouched, causing minimal disturbances while effectively removing materials.

Additionally, hydro excavation generates considerably less waste than mechanical techniques. The extracted slurry can be safely disposed of or stored for later use in the project – reducing waste production and disposal costs.

3. Increased Workplace Safety

Another significant advantage of hydro excavation is its contribution to workplace safety. This method reduces risks by using remote-controlled equipment. Operators are kept at a safe distance from hazardous materials or unstable terrain. It is a safer alternative to traditional excavation techniques.

Mechanical excavation often involves heavy machinery that requires skilled operators with the experience to navigate potential dangers safely. Handling such equipment carries inherent risks, including accidents and collisions that could cause injuries or fatalities. Hydro excavation eliminates many of these risks and provides a safer work environment for construction crews.

4. Cost-Efficiency and Time Savings

Time is money on any construction project – this adage also holds true for excavation work. By reducing the chances of damage to underground utilities and providing a more precise excavation process, project delays, and expensive repairs are significantly less likely.

Hydro excavation is relatively quick and requires fewer labor hours compared to mechanical excavators, which must be operated manually, meaning less downtime during projects. Fewer required workers on site and shorter project durations can translate to substantial cost savings.

In addition, remote-controlled equipment reduces wear on both the surrounding terrain and the machinery itself. This can reduce maintenance costs for construction companies that frequently employ hydro excavators.

Advancements in technology have allowed this innovative technique to outperform its counterpart significantly – making it the go-to choice for contractors looking for an efficient, reliable, and cost-effective excavation method.

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Author: Fazal Umer

Fazal is a dedicated industry expert in the field of civil engineering. As an Editor at ConstructionHow, he leverages his experience as a civil engineer to enrich the readers looking to learn a thing or two in detail in the respective field. Over the years he has provided written verdicts to publications and exhibited a deep-seated value in providing informative pieces on infrastructure, construction, and design.

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