As the underground distribution network becomes increasing complex the potential for fatalities, cost to repair damaged utilities and possible fines to recover loss of service can be a potential hazards with drilling and excavating services.

Vacuum excavation utilizes a high pressure air or water stream to penetrate, expand and break-up soil.   Loose soil and rocks are simultaneously removed by a vacuum.   This technique is typically used to create a hole one to two feet square and as deep as required to expose the buried utility.  When utilized properly the method is a safe, non destructive means of excavation.

Advantages of Vacuum Excavation:

• Locate and expose underground utilities with no risk

• High quality vacuum excavation

• Dig effectively in any type of soil

• More productive than open pit/backfill methods

• Clean and self-contained

• Compact applications

• Increased excavation speed

In general, vacuum excavations either expose a utility or remove earth in close proximity to a utility.   An example of exposing the utility would be day lighting or potholing a gas main to determine its exact vertical and horizontal position, also known as Quality Level A in the field of Subsurface Utility Engineering.   An example of the second general use would be an excavation in preparation for a boring or monitoring well that is within one meter of an existing utility. 

Typical Applications:

• Vacuum Excavating/Utility Potholing

• Virtually any excavation job that involves existing utilities

• Quality Level A confirmation of sub-surface utility locations

• Advanced pre-job surveying and utility mapping

• Clearing for boring and monitoring well installation

When excavating in the proximity of buried utilities, vacuum excavation is a safe alternative to hydraulic methods and an efficient alternative to hand digging.

Highlights of the Viper:

·         25 HP / 525 CFM Vacuum system

·         50 foot 4 " pickup hose

·         150 gallon debris tank

·         5.5 HP Water jet cutting and cleaning system

·         60 gallon plastic water tank