Overview
Hydro excavation, commonly called hydrovacing or vacuum excavation, uses pressurized water to break up soil combined with a vacuum system for material removal. It's considered one of the safest and most precise excavation methods available.
Typical Depths
On average, hydrovac trucks can safely dig to depths of 20–70 feet (6–21 meters). The depths break down as follows:
- 20–30 feet: Standard utility locating, potholing, and shallow trenching
- 30–50 feet: Sewer, water main, and deep utility work
- 50–70+ feet: Specialized applications, deep shafts, or environmental remediation
Limiting Factors
Several technical and safety constraints affect maximum digging depth:
- Vacuum Power & Lift Capacity - Most trucks achieve 20–70 feet of vertical lift before suction weakens
- Soil Type & Ground Conditions - Wet, loose soils are easier than compacted clay or rocky ground
- Hose Length & Accessibility - Longer hoses reduce power efficiency
- Safety Regulations - OSHA standards require proper shoring and benching for deep trenches; worker entry into excavations demands additional safety protocols
Applications
Deep hydro excavation serves multiple industries:
- Sewer and stormwater systems
- Utility shafts for electrical and telecom infrastructure
- Caisson and foundation work
- Environmental soil sampling and remediation
- Mining and energy pipeline exposure
Key Advantages
The primary benefit extends beyond depth alone—hydrovacing offers superior safety, precision, and significantly reduced risk of damaging underground utilities compared to mechanical methods.
