Vision Directional Drilling Case Study
September 26, 2024
Vision Directional Drilling took on a complex infrastructure project for a large data center, which overcame significant environmental challenges through innovative installation techniques. Collaborating with trusted industry partners like WL Plastics, they utilized high-quality materials and advanced methods to ensure efficient and effective results. This project highlighted the importance of strategic planning and expert execution in successfully managing demanding construction tasks.
This case study explores the challenges during a large data center project, the strategic solutions implemented, and the process that led to a successful installation.
Primary Project Challenge
A large data center project in the US required the installation of multiple conduit pipes to house numerous fiber-optic lines. The primary challenge was that open trench installation was not feasible due to environmental barriers, including creeks, wetlands, and steep terrain. The short installation window and the need to avoid existing structures and traffic disruption also contributed to the complexity. Furthermore, the project demanded the simultaneous pulling of 24 strands of conduit, which added to the obstacles.
Innovative HDPE Solutions: WL Plastics’ Role in Overcoming Installation Challenges
Here are the solutions that made Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) the ideal choice for addressing the project’s environmental and structural challenges:
HDD Technique
The HDD method was selected as the optimal approach to avoid open trenching, which was not feasible due to the project’s environmental and structural constraints. Using this technique, the team minimized disruption to the surrounding environment, navigated existing infrastructure, and maintained the area’s normal traffic flow.
High-Quality HDPE Conduit
WL Plastics provided a robust HDPE conduit to meet the project’s demanding requirements. Such material choice ensured that the conduit would endure the stress of the installation process without stretching or failing, guaranteeing long-term reliability.
Efficient Conduit Supply on Reels
The HDPE conduit was delivered on 102″ diameter reels — each containing 1,250 feet of conduit — which allowed for efficient, continuous pulling during installation. This setup sped up the drilling process and reduced material waste by enabling multiple pulls from a single reel, which optimized both time and resources.
Simultaneous Pulling of Multiple Conduit Strings
Vision Directional Drilling employed a technique to pull 24 individual strings of conduit simultaneously. It streamlined the installation process, ensuring that the project met its tight deadlines while maintaining the integrity of each conduit string.
Advanced Planning and Coordination
The project’s success was largely due to meticulous planning and seamless coordination among the involved parties. Early material selection and close collaboration between Vision Directional Drilling, PTUP, and Comstar Supply allowed the project to progress without delays despite the challenging conditions.
Comprehensive Execution Process
The following are the processes involved in the successful execution of the project:
1. Material Selection
The project began with careful planning in early 2020, focusing on selecting materials to meet stringent engineering requirements. James Cook of PTUP chose WL Plastics’ HDPE conduit for its proven quality.
2. Installation Planning
Vision Directional Drilling, an experienced HDD installer, was chosen to carry out the drilling. To facilitate the conduit-pulling process, the project was divided into 400-foot segments between manholes.
3. Execution
The installation commenced in September 2020 and was completed by early 2021. Vision Directional Drilling used a bore device to pull 24 individual conduit strings concurrently. The entire installation was executed with minimal environmental impact, no traffic disruptions, and without any issues like stretching or failure of the conduit.
4. Outcome
The project was completed within three months without any issues, attributable to high-quality materials and expert installation. Vision Directional Drilling has expressed high satisfaction with the results and materials supplied by WL Plastics, reflecting a successful collaboration.
Partner With WL Plastics for Effortless and Efficient Conduit Installations!
WL Plastics delivers the perfect solution for major data centers needing a reliable conduit for a complex installation project. Our high-quality HDPE conduit guarantees a smooth, failure-free installation across challenging terrain and completes the project in record time.
Trust us for your next project to achieve exceptional performance and efficiency, even in the most demanding environments! Contact us today.