Guidelines for Use of Mini-Horizontal Directional Drilling for Placement of High Density Polyethylene Pipe

A set of guidelines for the use of mini-horizontal directional drilling (mini-HDD) has recently been developed by the Plastics Pipe Institute. Technical Report TR-46, Guidelines for Use of Mini-Horizontal Directional Drilling for Placement of High Density Polyethylene Pipe, represents a comprehensive set of information supporting the placement of HDPE pipe by mini-HDD equipment. The new document is intended to provide information analogous to that provided in ASTM F 1962, Standard Guide for Use of Maxi-Horizontal Directional Drilling for Placement of Polyethylene Pipe or Conduit Under Obstacles, Including River Crossings, but at a level appropriate for the less complex mini-HDD technology and typical project characteristics. TR-46 contains guidelines ranging from preliminary site investigation to pipe selection (design) to implementation. The document reflects the latest industry information, but also includes new information and an HDPE pipe selection methodology not readily available elsewhere. It is anticipated that TR-46 will become widely used for mini-HDD pipeline installations, serving a similar role as ASTM F 1962 for maxi-HDD applications. The present guidelines may also be used for some midi-HDD installations, depending on the application and the judgment of the contractor or engineer.