From Planning to Recycling: Avoiding Project Pitfalls in Hard Rock Underground Environments

Abstract

Diverse terrain, hard rock, compacted soil and sediments can pose significant challenges for operators who work underground. Our cities’ aging utility infrastructures and increased underground fiber demands mean operators are encountering more hard rock and diverse terrain on the job than ever. However, with detailed planning, accurate tooling and enhanced recycling techniques, operators can confidently complete a job on time and on budget – all while reducing the environmental footprint near the jobsite. This presentation discusses ways of avoiding project pitfalls when drilling in hard rock – from conducting initial testing to selecting the proper equipment and tooling for each layer of various rock applications. Additionally, it covers the importance of mud recycling, using appropriate methods to increase jobsite productivity and mitigate environmental issues.