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Hydro Excavation
Hydro-excavation has become accepted as the safest method of excavating through areas with gas, power and other utility lines. Our HydroVax greatly reduces the risk of fire explosions or exposition caused by sparks. Water or air is used for the excavation process, which significantly reduces the possibility of damage to piping or lines.
GAP Inc. uses the world’s only dedicated wet/dry hydro excavator. We are able to excavate with hot water, cold water and pressurized air. A flexible hose is used to suction out media, and —if needed— vacuum tubing can be placed up to 500 feet away from hard-to-reach sites.
With the unique design of our HydroVax we are able to give you the power needed to hand the toughest jobs with ease.
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What is Hydro Excavation?
Hydro excavation is a cutting-edge method that combines high-pressure water and air vacuum technology to safely and efficiently excavate soil. This non-destructive process minimizes risks and damages, making it the preferred choice for a variety of excavation needs.
Applications of Hydro Excavation
- Line, Sign, and Pole Installation: Efficiently installs utilities with minimal disruption.
- Potholing/Daylighting: Safely exposes underground facilities for inspection.
- Pipe and Sewer Rehabilitation: Reduces risks of damage, saving time and costs.
- Landscaping: Maintains soil integrity while performing precise excavations.
History of Hydro Excavation
Hydro excavation began in the mid-1800s with hydraulic mining techniques used by California miners. Over the years, advancements in technology have led to the development of specialized hydro excavation equipment, making it a standard practice in various industries across North America today.
Benefits of Hydro Excavation
- Safety: Minimizes damage to underground utilities, reducing risks for workers and the public.
- Cost-Effective: Reduces repair expenses and project timelines.
- Eco-Friendly: Non-destructive method that preserves the surrounding environment.
Industries Using Hydro Excavation
Plumbing:
Facilitates the installation and repair of underground pipelines and sewer systems, reducing the risk of damage to existing utilities.Construction:
Speeds up excavation processes for commercial and residential projects, enhancing safety by minimizing heavy machinery usage.Landscaping:
Ensures precise digging for planting and soil management, reducing the need for restoration work after excavation.Telecommunications:
Safely installs and maintains fiber-optic cables and other utilities, preventing damage to existing infrastructure.Roadwork and Infrastructure:
Assists in the installation of traffic signals, streetlights, and other essential infrastructure.Environmental Remediation:
Used in clean-up projects where careful excavation is crucial to avoid contaminating surrounding soil and water.
Cost Considerations
Initial Investment vs. Long-Term Savings:
While hydro excavation equipment can be costly, the savings on repairs and faster project completion can offset initial investments.Reduced Labor Costs:
The efficiency of hydro excavation can lower labor costs through faster project timelines and reduced manual labor.Insurance and Liability:
Fewer accidents and damages can lead to lower insurance premiums and liability costs in the long run.
Safety Considerations
Non-Destructive Method:
Hydro excavation minimizes the risk of damaging underground utilities and infrastructure.Reduced Traffic Congestion:
Equipment can be set up away from the excavation site, leading to safer work environments.Worker Safety:
Less reliance on heavy machinery reduces the chances of accidents and injuries on-site.