A hydrovac unit is a great option to complete prep work prior to horizontal directional drilling. The high-pressure water and powerful vacuum system of a hydrovac is strong enough to clear soil and debris of all types – including rock and sand – while not causing damage to existing underground utilities. Due to these characteristics, hydro-excavating can play several roles in an HDD project. First, a hydrovac can be used to excavate the entry well, which is the location where the HDD bit will enter the ground and collects returning drilling/lubrication or liquid/mud. This step has traditionally included the work of a shoveled excavator. However, this type of equipment is prone to damaging existing utilities that are underground. A hydrovac can complete this task without causing damage. Second, a hydrovac is the ideal option to daylight the jobsite, exposing and locating any utilities in the ground. Utilizing the handgun on the hydrovac unit, an operator can precisely cut and remove soil from exact locations, mitigating the need to dig up entire sections of a jobsite. Daylighting with a hydrovac causes minimal disruption to the surrounding area. Once utilities have been located, operators can verify any utilities already installed and ensure that the drilling of new pipeline will not interfere with these established lines. Third, a hydrovac can utilize its vacuum capabilities to reclaim the lubrication/drilling liquid used to install the new pipeline. Using a hydrovac for prep and final work on a horizontal directional drilling project can save operators time and ensure that established utilities are not damaged in the process. Having a hydrovac on site for these types of jobs can positively affect overall costs and efficiency on the job. SAFE Hydrovac offers a range of products to meet the needs of public utilities, telecommunication companies, construction contractors, and more.