The best ways to install underground pipework and cabling

Installing electricity cables, waterworks, communication lines and other underground pipe requiring materials is a very important step in development of area, whether this is for a new built area or to add services to places that lack them. Electrical cables are often laid underground for aesthetic and safety purposes. Burrowing underground to lay wires involves many factors to consider and steps to take to get it right. There are many methods used in laying underground cables. Each of these methods, like in most things, have their unique features and advantages which make then suitable solutions on a case to case basis.

Direct System

The open-cut method of laying down underground cables involve trenching or excavating and then covering the cables with soil. In most trenching systems, another layer of bricks and concrete may be added on top of the ground for added support for the structure and also serve to protect the cables from corrosion. Trenching is considered as the most common system of laying underground cables because it is simple and economical.

Another advantage of trenching is the capability to withstand the impact of vibration. In areas where the cables may be subject to vibration, trenching is an ideal method. However, trenching tends to be disruptive to the surrounding environment and is not always the best method to use when working in populated and urban areas.

Directional Drilling

Directional drilling is a recently developed technique of laying underground cables which is quicker and easier than trenching, especially when working in urban, built up areas. The process of putting pipes involves using a particular drill rig which bores a hole using a pre-determined path and then pulls back the cables after widening the hole. Along with electricity cables, this method is also useful for laying all types of utility pipes such as gas and water lines.

One of the most notable advantages of directional drilling is how it heavily minimises and almost eradicates any environmental disruption. The method is also very effective in avoiding obstructions above surface level such as buildings, bridges, roads and bodies of water like ponds and rivers. Trenching can lead to underground water contamination which is a much less significant risk when using horizontal directional drilling.

Draw-In Method

Another method of installing underground cables in urban areas is the draw-in system. The process involves laying down pipes in existing ducts or utility holes. The main advantage of using this method is the convenience of repairing cables when needed. It also makes it easier to replace damaged wires or change old for new, which can reduce the cost of maintenance and the overall cost of the project.

Solid Method

This method involves laying the pipes under a solid surface like wood, asphalt, or cast iron. The manner of putting underground cables in this way provides excellent protection for the pipework and cables.

Compared with other methods of installing underground cables, this type of system is more expensive and provides very little benefits except better structural integrity. Nevertheless, there are a number of other applications for this type of method, especially when the pipework or cables need more enhanced protection against harsh environmental elements.