Directional boring, also referred to as horizontal directional drilling, is a minimal impact trenchless method of installing underground utilities such as pipe, conduit, or cables in a relatively shallow arc or radius along a prescribed underground path using a surface-launched drilling rig.

What is horizontal directional drilling method?

Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) is a construction technique whereby a tunnel is drilled under a waterway or other designated area, and a pipeline or other utility is pulled through the drilled underground tunnel. ... The drilling mud also helps coat the walls of the tunnel and remove drill cuttings.

What is the difference between horizontal and directional drilling?

A more complex way of directional drilling utilizes a bend near the bit, as well as a downhole steerable mud motor. ... Horizontal drilling is any wellbore that exceeds 80 degrees, and it can even include more than a 90-degree angle (drilling upward).