Horizontal Drilling Machines used for installing Gas Pipelines

Jesal Sampat, Executive Director, Pune Gas

Horizontal drilling machines, also known as directional drilling machines, have revolutionized the process of installing gas pipes. Instead of digging trenches, horizontal drilling machines can drill horizontally underground, allowing the installation of gas pipes without disrupting the ground above. This technology has become increasingly popular in recent years, due to its ability to save time and money, as well as its environmental benefits. The installation of gas pipes is a critical component of the energy industry, and the traditional method of installation has been to dig trenches to place the pipes underground. However, this method has several drawbacks, including environmental concerns, disruption to infrastructure, and time-consuming installation. Horizontal drilling machines have emerged as a cost-effective, efficient, and environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional trenching methods. This article will provide a detailed overview of horizontal drilling machines used for installing gas pipes.

Working Principle
Horizontal drilling machines work by drilling a small pilot hole using a drill bit that is mounted on the end of a flexible pipe. The drill bit can be guided through the ground using a computer-controlled system. Once the pilot hole has been drilled, a reamer bit is used to widen the hole to the required diameter. The gas pipe is then fed through the hole, and the drilling machine pulls the pipe through the ground. The pipe is then connected to the gas network, completing the installation process.

Equipment Used
Horizontal drilling machines are sophisticated pieces of equipment that require a skilled operator. They are typically mounted on a truck or trailer and consist of several components. These include the drilling rig, which houses the drill bit and the reamer bit, and the support equipment, which includes the mud mixing and cleaning systems. The mud mixing system mixes the drilling fluid, which is used to cool and lubricate the drill bit, while the cleaning system removes the cuttings and debris from the hole.
Benefits of Horizontal Drilling Machines
One of the primary advantages of horizontal drilling machines is their ability to minimize surface disturbance. Traditional methods of installing gas pipes often involve digging trenches, which can be disruptive to roads, sidewalks, and other infrastructure. Horizontal drilling machines can bypass these obstacles, allowing the gas pipes to be installed without disturbing the surface. This minimizes the disruption to the surrounding area and reduces the need for road closures or traffic diversions.
Horizontal drilling machines can also save time and money. Traditional trenching methods can take days or even weeks to complete, while horizontal drilling can often be completed in a matter of hours. This can save both time and money, as less labor is required, and there is less disruption to the surrounding area. The use of horizontal drilling machines can also reduce the need for restoration work, such as repaving roads, after the gas pipes have been installed.
Another benefit of horizontal drilling machines is their environmental impact. Traditional trenching methods can damage vegetation and disrupt the local ecosystem. Horizontal drilling machines, on the other hand, have a minimal impact on the environment. By avoiding disruptive trenching methods, these machines help to preserve the natural landscape and reduce the amount of disruption to the local ecosystem.

Drawbacks of Horizontal Drilling Machines
Despite their many benefits, there are some potential drawbacks to the use of horizontal drilling machines. One concern is the potential for underground obstacles, such as rocks or other hard materials, to interfere with the drilling process. This can slow down the drilling process or require the use of more powerful drilling equipment. Additionally, horizontal drilling machines can be expensive to operate and maintain, which can be a significant barrier for some gas companies.

Conclusion
Horizontal drilling machines have become an increasingly popular tool for installing gas pipes. With their ability to minimize surface disturbance, save time and money, and reduce environmental impact, these machines are an important innovation in the gas industry. While there are some potential drawbacks to their use, the benefits of horizontal drilling machines make them a valuable tool for gas companies looking to improve their operations. Overall, horizontal drilling machines are a cost-effective, efficient, and environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional trenching methods.

Case Studies
Horizontal drilling machines have been used successfully in many gas pipeline installations. In 2017, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) used a horizontal drilling machine to install a gas pipeline under Route 19 in Cranberry Township. The installation was completed in just 12 hours, compared to the several days it would have taken with traditional trenching methods. The project also had a minimal impact on traffic and the surrounding area, with no road closures or traffic diversions necessary.
In 2018, Canadian energy company Enbridge used a horizontal drilling machine to install a gas pipeline in Ohio. The project was completed in just one week, and the company reported significant cost savings.

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