Discover Vacuum Excavation: Everything You Should Know

The Vacuum Excavation Process

The vacuum excavation process begins with the use of pressurised water or air to loosen the soil around the area to be excavated. This process, known as ‘potholing’ or ‘daylighting,’ is done to expose underground utilities without causing any damage. The process vacuums up the loosened soil into a debris tank and later disposes of it at a suitable site.

There are two main types of vacuum excavation: hydro excavation and air excavation. Hydro excavation uses pressurised water to break up the soil, while air excavation uses compressed air. The choice between the two depends on the project’s specific requirements and the soil’s nature.

Benefits of Vacuum Excavation

1. Safety: Vacuum excavation significantly reduces the risk of damage to underground utilities, which can lead to costly repairs and potential safety hazards. Using water or air to break up the soil minimises the chances of damaging these utilities, making it a safer alternative to traditional excavation methods.
2. Efficiency: Vacuum excavation is faster than traditional digging methods. Pressurised water or air allows for quick and efficient soil removal, reducing the time spent on the excavation process.
3. Accuracy: Vacuum excavation provides a high level of accuracy, allowing for precise excavation around delicate utilities. This accuracy reduces the need for additional digging and backfilling, saving time and resources.
4. Environmental Impact: Vacuum excavation has a lower environmental impact than traditional methods. The process disrupts the surrounding area minimally and reduces the amount of debris requiring disposal.