Vacuum excavation, also known as soft digging, is a specialized non-destructive excavation method that uses high-powered suction to remove soil or debris from the ground. Here’s a general overview of the process:
PREPARATION:
The first step in the process is to mark the area that needs to be excavated and identify any underground utilities that may be present. This is done by our experienced Mainline team using specialized equipment, such as ground-penetrating radar or electromagnetic locators.
SETUP:
Once the area has been marked, the specialized vacuum excavation equipment is set up on site. This may include a truck-mounted vacuum system or a standalone unit, depending on the size of the excavation and the location of the site.
EXCAVATION:
The excavation process begins by inserting a high-pressure water or air lance into the ground to loosen the soil. The loosened soil is then removed using a powerful vacuum, which sucks the soil and debris into a tank on the vacuum excavation truck.
BACKFILLING:
Once the excavation is complete, the area is backfilled using the same soil that was removed during the excavation. This minimizes the impact on the surrounding environment and reduces the need for additional clean-up. Vacuum excavation is used in a variety of applications, including the installation or repair of underground utilities, such as water or sewer lines. It is a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional excavation methods, which can be more invasive and carry a higher risk of damaging underground utilities or other infrastructure.
| Requirement | Excavation |
|---|---|
| Specialist Service Offering | Vacuum Excavation |
| Miscellaneous Civil Works | |
| Foul Sewer / Stormwater / Sleeve | |
| Water / Gas | |
| Size Limitations | Unlimited |