Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) Technology Advancements to Mitigate Environmental Issues and Reduce Carbon Footprints

Abstract

Drilling fluid is essential for completing any horizontal directional drilling (HDD) installation of pipe, duct or conduit. Drilling fluid – commonly known as “mud” – is composed of water, bentonite or other additives. Fluid carries cuttings out of the bore hole, and lubricates and strengthens inside walls of the hole. Disposing of used fluid after an installation is complete also can be time-consuming and costly. Limiting the volumes of fluid immediately lowers the cost of water and additives, and reduces disposal costs. In addition, fluid conservation has other significant benefits. Allowing drilling fluid returns to spread over the work site creates environmental issues, and reducing the equipment powered by gasoline engines has a positive impact on the carbon footprint.

Techniques