What are the limitations of Hydrovac Excavation Services?
Hydrovac excavation offers a safer and more cost-efficient alternative to traditional excavation methods. Instead of using heavy backhoes and equipment for digging, hydrovac employs a high-pressure water system to break up soil and rocks. The resulting slurry is then safely vacuumed into a holding tank, revealing underground lines and utilities without causing damage. Mr. Mike's Plumbing and Drain Cleaning is one of the few companies in Calgary that provides hydrovac excavation services.
Hydrovac excavation offers numerous advantages over other methods. One of the significant benefits is the significant reduction in the risk of damaging underground pipes or fixtures, which is the top concern in traditional digging methods. A broken pipe can cause serious issues and costly delays in construction projects. Moreover, hydrovac excavation is highly precise and time-efficient, making it more cost-effective overall. Additionally, hydrovac excavation is a safer and more environmentally friendly option for digging. In comparison, airvac excavation, which uses compressed air instead of water to break up the soil, is another form of excavation, but hydrovac still holds several advantages over airvac. As a result, hydrovac excavation has become one of the most popular methods of excavation.
That being said, hydrovac excavation does come with its own set of limitations. So what are the limitations of hydrovac excavation services?
Larger trucks
Hydrovac excavation necessitates the use of larger trucks that are designed to accommodate the volume and weight of water. These trucks typically feature a debris tank for holding the slurry, as well as a separate tank for clean water that is used to clean the debris tank after the slurry has been deposited. However, the size of these trucks can pose challenges when it comes to maneuvering through high-traffic areas.
Water
There are a few drawbacks to using water instead of air for excavation with hydrovac. One limitation is that hydrovac excavation relies on the supply of water in the unit's holding tank, and once that supply is exhausted, the tank must be refilled before the project can proceed. This can cause delays if the worksite is located far from the nearest water source. In contrast, with airvac excavation, the excavated material can be dumped back onsite, eliminating the need for a water supply. Additionally, since hydrovac excavation produces a liquefied soil slurry, the excavated dirt cannot be replaced at the job site, and the debris must be transported and dumped at a designated location, requiring new fill to be procured. Another consideration is that if the water pressure is not properly adjusted, it can potentially cut through underground cables and damage pipelines. However, it's important to note that the risk of damage with hydrovac excavation is still significantly lower compared to traditional digging methods.
Safety
Safety is a key consideration in any excavation project, including hydrovac excavation. Proper precautions must be taken when working near overhead lines, especially when the truck's boom is in use or when repositioning the truck, as water is a conductor of electricity. Buried lines must be located before starting the excavation, and the truck's components should be composed of materials that restrict the flow of electricity. Following proper safety protocols is essential to minimize the risk of injuries and workplace accidents.
In conclusion, hydrovac excavation offers numerous advantages over traditional excavation methods, including increased safety, cost-efficiency, and environmental friendliness. However, it does come with limitations, such as the need for larger trucks and a water source, as well as specific safety considerations. Mr. Mike's Plumbing and Drain Cleaning, with its highly trained excavators, is proud to offer hydrovac excavation services in Calgary. Contact them today to discuss your specific excavation needs and benefit from this innovative technology.
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