Hydrovac, or hydro excavation, is used across a variety of construction and industrial fields in Alberta. It is a method of digging and vacuum excavation that liquefies dirt using pressurized water and a vacuum system. A safe and non-destructive process, hydrovac excavation is particularly suited for various Albertan industries, such as daylighting, trenching, and underground utilities installation or replacement.

How Does Hydro Excavation Work?

Hydrovac excavation is an efficient excavation technique used to remove soil and debris, creating a slurry of dirt. This is done by directing a wand toward a targeted area, after which a stream of high-pressure water flows. Next, this liquid waste is cleared using a powerful vacuum and stored in a debris tank. This process continues until deeper layers are uncovered.

Hydrovac Versus Conventional Excavation Techniques

There are several benefits to using a hydrovac over traditional excavation techniques, including economic advantages, efficiency, precision, and safety. Unlike traditional excavation methods, which may involve multiple trucks and specialized equipment to excavate or store waste, hydro excavation uses one truck for the entire process. This simplified method also means that less clean-up work is involved, allowing for a more precise and streamlined excavation. Hydrovacs also exert a controlled water pressure level, around 3000 psi, making them powerful enough to break through tough terrain without the risk of damage to underground utility lines, gas lines or installations.

Applications of Hydrovacs

Sub-Zero Excavation

Since hydrovacs allow for adjustments in temperature to exert heated water, they are ideal for Albertan industries year-round, including icy terrain in sub-zero weather conditions.

Daylighting

Daylighting involves exposing underground utilities in order to locate the area to be worked on. Compared to mechanical excavation methods, hydrovac excavation allows for safe locating without the danger of disrupting pipelines.

Trenching

Trenching concerns slim excavations for the purpose of installing underground utilities or utility lines, such as pipelines or cables. Because hydrovacs can aim a precise, pressurized stream of water, slot trenching work that requires narrow trenches is possible.

Underground Line Replacement

Without the risks involved with traditional excavation methods, hydrovac excavation is a fast and convenient way to map, locate, and replace or install hidden utility lines. This also makes it a more environmentally-friendly method for landscape restoration.

For safe and efficient hydrovac excavation projects, contact our team of skilled contractors at Strathcona Excavating in Edmonton, Alberta. We also provide hydrovac dispatch services for emergency repairs. Call our line at 780.416.9000 to learn more about our excavation services.