Hydrovac trucks normally utilize high-pressure water to cut through the soil, then vacuum to eliminate the spoil. Actually, the trucks' tanks hold the spoil until it becomes full, after which the slurry is discarded at a specific area.

Essentially, hydrovac services are common in areas where mechanical excavation is prohibited. These are areas such as near underground pipes. Furthermore, it ensures services like gas, electricity, cable, or water aren't damaged due to the excavation. In addition, it is also preferred in areas where stabilization is needed, such as slopes and embankments.

Hydrovacing trucks are equipped with a hydrovac system that pumps out soil using high-pressure water jetting and vacuuming capabilities. The material removed is immediately deposited in a tank at the back of the truck.

Advantages of Hydrovacing:

As mentioned earlier, hydrovacing is used in areas where traditional methods such as digging are not possible. Some of the advantages which make it more popular than other methods are:

Environmental-Friendly

No environmental pollution since no chemicals or contaminated water vapor will be released to the environment.

Less Expensive

Compared to other excavation methods, hydrovac is less costly (when it comes to construction). It can clear large areas quickly compared to the traditional excavation method. Lesser disturbance of surface when the ground is cleared without much digging. Also, excess water can be used in downstream irrigation or other projects since it uses pressurized water. Unfit soil can be replaced and reused.

It's fast

Hydrovacing method is very fast, especially in acquiring large areas. It is normally completed within a few hours compared to conventional excavation that takes days or weeks to clear an area.

Used on different applications

Hydrovacing method can be used in different applications such as excavation for foundation construction, underwater expansion/repair of underground storage tanks.

Highly Efficient

This method is highly efficient and safer than other conventional excavation methods since trees, plants, and surrounding areas are not disturbed when the area is cleared. It eliminates the need for backfilling or filling up afterward, which reduces time and manpower. There is no need for heavy-duty equipment such as bulldozers and tractors. This reduces manual labor during excavation

It's a Safe Method

Unlike conventional methods, hydrovacing is a safe method since no tools or machinery are used. In addition, fresh cuttings can be hauled away without disturbing the surrounding area.

Things Worth Noting

Notwithstanding the numerous advantages, it has been noted that hydrovacing has a few drawbacks. These include:

Hydrovacing is not suitable for soils that are too soft or sands with high gravel content. Before starting, we suggest doing a feasibility study to ensure the possibility of using this technique

Since the soil is being pushed out using water, it should be free from any debris or other heavy objects. In addition, hydrovacing has a depth restriction that varies depending on the soil type and compaction. The depth can reach up to 15 feet below ground level. It may cause damage to nearby structures such as buildings or pipes.

It is always good to ask questions like; are there any underground utilities on the site? Is the ground too soft or too hard for hydrovacing? Are there any environmental concerns related to this technique?