Proper HDD design and planning is necessary for the success of any HDD project. Two major concerns associated with HDD are hydraulic fractures and inadvertent drilling fluid returns. At The Lighthouse Companies, we have extensive experience evaluating these risks, we understand the limits and capabilities of using HDD and can thus provide you with proper recommendations for a successful directional drilling project.

Why is an evaluation and plan necessary prior to drilling?

In order to mitigate the risk of hydrofracture, you need to limit down-hole fluid pressure which can cause hydraulic fracturing of the soil and result in drilling fluid returns at the ground surface. Therefore, prior to drilling it is necessary to determine the minimum allowable drilling pressure so that the borehole does not collapse while also knowing the maximum allowable drilling pressure to avoid hydrofracture and soil failure during the HDD process.

Evaluation and Assessment

Before you begin your drilling project we will evaluate and assess the risk of hydraulic fracture and identify areas where inadvertent fluid returns may occur, utilizing the following to gather data:

  • Subsurface geotechincal exploration of the area through soil borings

  • Visual observation

  • Field testing

  • Laboratory testing

What methods do you use?

We utilize the widely accepted Delft Equation method, based on cavity expansion theory, to evaluate and quantify the risk of hydrofracture and calculate the allowable drilling fluid pressure for your specific project. The Delft calculations we use are within the recommendations provided by the US Army Corps of Engineers.

Plan Design and Specifications

After we complete our analysis and evaluation, we provide you with a comprehensive report on our findings, including a clear and detailed geotechnical recommendation and plan for minimizing any negative environmental impact of your directional drilling project.

Service areas

Our engineers are licensed in Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Minnesota, Mississippi, Ohio, Texas, and Wisconsin.  We also have a network of engineers that allows us to work in every state in United States.

More Information

For more information or to discuss your specific project needs, please contact us.