It’s wintertime again in Colorado and unlike the old days that people have limited activities in winter, today we can still continue our projects so that we can reach our goals. Good thing our directional drilling contractors are available throughout the year.
Directional Boring is used when trenching or excavation is not practical and allows us to place nearly any utility line, pipe or conduit into the ground utilizing a trenchless placement method in a quick and efficient manner causing minimal impact to the ground surface and surrounding areas. Using a surface-launched bore machine, Advanced Line systems drill horizontally underground along a predetermined bore path avoiding any existing obstacles.
But since it is wintertime, it puts extra stress on horizontal directional drilling contractors when doing their job and the cold would make them more difficult to operate. Fortunately, there are smart adjustments that directional drilling contractors use so the project can be successful.
1. Having the Right Equipment
Given the frozen ground, it is harder and it can take longer to drill the pilot bore. Having the right equipment is the key. Horizontal directional drilling contractors use dirt bits or blades that have carbide blocks on the sides. Some tools use carbide shoes that protect the blade and can be easily replaced as many times as necessary or were designed to fracture rocks as it digs. In addition, the drill string can also be a problem as it takes a beating as it goes into the ground which can be a binding issue but can be resolved by regularly changing the lead rod on the drill string especially in cold weather conditions.
2. Lubrication
Because of winter, lubrication fluids in equipment can be affected and should use the right kind of metalworking fluid. Anti-freeze and thread lube are examples of these. Thick and sludgy fluid caused by the freeing air can stop the machines and reduces the performance and slows down production. The solution to this is using specially formulated, arctic grade lubrication fluid that was designed for subzero temperature. Keeping them in a hearted area can help prevent them from freezing or becoming slushy.
3. Heaters
Heaters keep the engine like drill rigs able to turn over through the blocking. During winters, drill support trucks should be insulated with diesel or electric-powered heaters.
4. Changing of fluids as necessary
Changing fluids any time the equipment was not used for several days or has been left out in the cold is essential so that the equipment won’t be dumped and winterized.
5. Temporary Shelter
Directional drilling contractors build a temporary shelter in extreme cold to keep the ground pliable enough to drill.
Advanced Line Systems is one of the industry leaders in Professional Horizontal Directional Boring in the Rocky Mountain region servicing the Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming areas. With over 33 years of combined experience in the field, we have mastered the craft of horizontal directional boring. Whether your project is residential or commercial, small or large—we have the equipment and skill to suit your needs and provide exceptional service to you in a timely manner. Call us now for your winter projects at 303-475-8420.
