What is Directional Drilling?

Directional boring, commonly called horizontal directional drilling or HDD, is a steerable trenchless method of installing underground pipes, conduits and cables in a shallow arc along a prescribed bore path by using a surface launched drilling rig, with minimal impact on the surrounding area.

How Does It Work?

At its core, directional drilling relies on advanced drilling equipment and precise navigation systems. The process typically involves the following components:

Drill Bit: A specially designed rotating tool at the end of the drill string that cuts through the earth's subsurface.

Drill Collar: Heavy steel tubing that provides weight and stability to the drill string, aiding in the drilling process.

Mud Motor: A downhole motor powered by drilling fluid (mud), which generates the rotational force required to turn the drill bit.

Measurement While Drilling (MWD) Tools: Sensors and instruments integrated into the drill string that provide real-time data on the wellbore's trajectory, orientation, and formation properties.

Surface Equipment: Control systems and software used to monitor and adjust drilling parameters such as direction, angle, and speed.

By manipulating these components, operators can navigate the drill bit along predetermined paths, allowing for precise targeting of underground reservoirs, geological formations, or utility lines.

Directional drilling has become the industry standard for placement of product in areas congested with existing utilities, finished landscaping, environmentally sensitive, or prone to erosion. 

Directional boring is used in place of other drilling techniques for the following reasons:

• Deeper installation possible
• Directional and curved capabilities
• Less traffic disruption
• Longer installation distances possible
• Lower costs
• No access pit required
• Safer for the environment
• Shorter project completion times