Hydro & Compressed Air Excavation: A Safer Alternative to Traditional Excavating

Vacuum Excavation is defined as soil extraction using a high-powered vacuum truck and either pressurized water or air to break apart and remove said soil. The use of water during vacuum excavation is typically referred to as Hydro Excavation, while the use of air is commonly called Compressed Air Excavation. These particular methods of excavation are commonly accepted as being the equivalent or safer than hand digging within the tolerance zone around underground utilities.

The use of Vacuum Excavation equipment allows for safe exposing of buried utilities as well as removal of soil for other related purposes. This process enables workers on-site to stay safe on the surface above the excavation point and helps to eliminate/minimize accidental damage to utilities and trench cave-ins. Waters Vacuum Truck Service offers both Hydro and Compressed Air Excavation services to various locations within the Northern Nevada and Northeastern California region.

Hydro Excavation – Safer Digging Utilizing High-Pressure Water and Vacuum Truck

Hydro Excavation uses water to loosen the soil and facilitate digging. The use of high-pressure water helps to break-up soil adhesion so that a vacuum truck can easily suction material out. A vacuum truck is used in conjunction with the water to remove and collect wet, muddy soil for off-hauling and disposal. Below are the main benefits of hydro excavation vs. traditional excavation.

• Greater precision, allowing for smaller work area and less mess
• Less invasive than traditional excavation equipment and methods
• Utilizes less manpower and equipment compared to traditional excavation
• Safer to surrounding utilities eliminating damage and costly repairs

Compressed Air Excavation – The Industry Gold Standard for Digging & Utility Excavation

Compressed Air Excavation utilizes compressed air and a high-powered vacuum truck to loosen dirt and soil for quick removal. This process has several advantages compared to traditional digging methods as well as Hydro Excavating. Below are the main advantages of Compressed Air Excavating.

• Helps eliminate damage to the utilities
• No need to off-haul excess excavation material and charge costly disposal fees (vs. Hydro Excavation)
• Can be used on a variety of utilities and conduit (gas, water, power, etc.)
• Compact work area with less disruption and cleaner work site
• Air does not need refilling (vs. water used during Hydro-Excavation)

 Please call Waters today at (775) 825-1595 or CONTACT US to inquire on pricing and availability of Hydro and Compressed Air Excavating equipment.