Last Updated on February 20, 2023 by admin
If you’ve been thinking of purchasing a hydro excavation vacuum, you need to be sure that you know how to operate it correctly. It will help you to save time and money. You’ll also be able to keep your work safe and protect your property.
Safer than air excavation
Air excavation and hydro vac excavation are two methods of excavating. These methods are similar, but which one is the safest?
Air excavation combines the power of compressed air to vacuum loose soil into a debris tank. It allows for easier and faster backfilling. The method is also less invasive than other types of digging. It’s often used for pre-work site investigations but can be an excellent choice for locating underground utilities.
Hydrovac excavation, on the other hand, uses a high-pressure water supply to break through nearly any type of soil. For example, it can be effective at breaking up wet or frozen ground. However, there are better methods for backfilling.
Both methods can cause damage to underground utilities and create unsafe conditions if the operator isn’t trained to do so. That’s why you should get the proper training to ensure your project goes off without a hitch.
Consider both if you need clarification on which is best for your specific job. Choose one depending on what kind of material you need to remove.
Avoid damaging underground utilities
A hydro excavation vacuum is an excellent way to remove the soil around underground utilities. However, several precautions should be taken when using this method.
The first thing to consider is safety. A hydraulic hose should never be held directly in contact with the utility. It can clog the nozzle and potentially cause damage.
Another essential precaution is to use a rotating nozzle. It prevents a strong stream of water from hitting one area. Also, the nozzle should be covered in a non-conductive coating.
To avoid damaging underground utilities, it’s always best to call 811 before digging. This service will route you to the local utility company’s call center. They will notify you if they have a locator or other markings showing you where to dig.
Other precautions are to stay four feet away from any marked areas and use caution when you do dig. Avoid operating heavy machinery and tools to do the job.
Increased productivity
Vacuum excavation machines are a practical alternative to traditional digging methods. These machines allow you to dig underground utilities without destroying or damaging them safely. They can be used for construction and landscaping projects.
The main benefit of vacuum excavation is that it allows for fast and efficient soil removal. However, several factors must be taken into consideration. For example, operators must be trained appropriately. To operate a vacuum excavator, you must know how to use and maintain the equipment.
The quantity of pits you intend to dig is another thing to consider. If you must prepare for this task, you may mess up your worksite. It can be expensive. Consider the distance to the disposal site, which can be essential.
A hydro excavation vacuum truck is an excellent way to boost your productivity. Specifically, you can clean tanks, uncover oil and gas lines, and bury specific objects.
Cost-savings
Hydro excavation is an efficient, cost-effective means of excavation. It is also much safer than manual digging. This method relies on a pressurized water jet and vacuum system to soften the soil. The dirt is then collected, carried away from the job site, and disposed of in a designated dumping area.
Traditional excavation methods are not only expensive, but they are dangerous and can cause severe damage to underground utilities. They also result in an enormous amount of mess.
Hydrovac trucks are instrumental in breaking ground near underground utilities. These vehicles can create specific holes, eliminating the need to truck in new material.
In addition to reducing the amount of cleanup necessary after an excavation, hydro vac excavations lessen the risk of environmental damage. There are fewer incidents and injuries with hydro vac excavations, so insurance companies will often offer lower rates to businesses that use the service.
One of the enormous benefits is that it eliminates the need to haul and dispose of the slurry left behind. It makes the cleanup process more superficial, which saves time and money.
