Differences Between Hydro Excavation and Hydro Jetting

When it comes to cleaning and excavation, hydro technology is one of the most popular and effective methods. Hydro excavation and hydro jetting are two techniques that use water to perform different tasks. While they might sound similar, they are two different processes with distinct functions.

But what makes hydrovacs and line jetting different from one another?

Hydro Excavation

Hydro excavation, also known as hydrovac excavation, is a non-destructive method that uses a high-pressure water stream to loosen and remove soil, sand, and other debris. The water stream is directed from a wand attached to a truck-mounted unit which can be directed with accuracy around a dig site. As the water stream loosens the debris, it is sucked into a truck's vacuum tank where it is contained out of the way of what is being dug.

Furthermore, this method is a safe and efficient way to dig around underground utilities such as pipes or cables, and other sensitive areas.This makes it an ideal solution for critical infrastructure projects where the risk of damage is high.

Hydro Jetting

Hydro jetting, also know as line jetting, is a method that uses high-pressure water cleaning, mostly for clearing blockages and debris from pipes and other underground infrastructure. The water stream is directed from a nozzle attached to a hose, and as it travels through the pipe, it cleans loosens and removes blockages.

Apart from that, it can also be used to clean and descale pipes without having to unearth or dislodge them. It is a relatively quick and efficient cleaning method, and it is often less expensive than traditional pipe cleaning methods or replacing them altogether.

Key Difference

The primary difference between hydrovac excavation and line jetting is the purpose of the pressurized water they both utilize. Though it may seem like they are similar in that manner, the way either of them works are only ideal to certain kinds of jobs which may not necessarily be applicable to the other.

One the one hand, hydro excavation is commonly used to dig and remove soil for purposes such as:

• Utility Locating and Daylighting - exposing utilities, such as gas lines, water mains, and electrical cables to the surface for easy access and maintenance.
• Trenching - creating narrow trenches for various purposes, such as installing fiber optic cables or plumbing lines.
• Potholing - digging small holes to expose and repair damaged pipes or cables.
• Environmental Remediation - removing contaminated soil and debris from a site, minimizing the risk of spreading pollutants.
• Landscaping - digging and creating new landscaping features, such as planting trees, creating water features, or building retaining walls.

These are just a few examples of types of work where hydrovac trucks can be used as they require the non-destructive and accurate aspect of vacuum excavation without risks of creating further damage.

On the other hand, the purpose of hydro jetting is mostly for cleaning and clearing underground utilities without unearthing them, applicable to jobs such as:

• Industrial Cleaning - clearing large pipes, tanks, and vessels in industrial settings such as wastewater treatment plants, oil refineries, chemical plants, and factories.
• Municipal Maintenance - maintaining municipal pipelines, catch basins, and stormwater drains. This includes removing clogging caused by debris, grease, or other materials in community sewage systems and the like.
• Residential and Commercial Plumbing - unclogging pipes in homes and commercial buildings such as removing build-up and blockages in sewer lines, drain lines, etc.

All these jobs are concerned with cleaning and removal of unwanted debris through the high water pressure that line jetting uses.

Which Method is Right for You?

The best method for your project will depend on your specific needs. If you need to excavate around underground utilities or other sensitive areas, then hydro excavation is the best option. However, hydro jetting is better if you need to clear drain blockages or clean surfaces.

If you are still determining which method is right for you, then it is best to consult professionals. They will be able to assess your needs and give you the best recommendations.

Here at Fuzion, we offer both hydro excavation and jetting services. Our team of experts is equipped with the latest tools and techniques to provide top-notch services to our clients in various industries. We take pride in delivering high-quality services that meet your needs and exceed your expectations.

Call us today at 970-539-4201 or request service online to learn more about how we can help with your next project.