This Bytesized piece explores Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) in action – a quick, practical insight into one of the most effective low‑impact installation methods in the industry.
HDD is widely used to install underground utilities without disturbing the surface, making it ideal for congested or sensitive environments. By drilling a guided underground path and pulling pipes or cables through in one continuous section, HDD minimises disruption, reduces environmental impact, and keeps infrastructure running as normal.
A recent JSM project demonstrates this in action. The team was tasked with installing a high‑voltage cable route beneath a corridor packed with constraints, including dense utilities, environmentally sensitive features, operational areas, and live traffic movements. Traditional excavation wasn’t feasible.
Using gyro‑guided steering, staged drilling, real‑time monitoring, and strict environmental controls, the team delivered a minimal‑surface‑impact installation, completed in under five days. All surrounding operations, access routes, and habitats remained fully protected throughout.
This case study highlights why HDD has become a preferred method for modern infrastructure delivery: precision, safety, speed, and minimal disruption, even in the most challenging environments.