This guide describes the design, selection considerations, and installation procedures for the placement of polyethylene pipe or conduit below ground using maxi-horizontal directional drilling equipment. The pipes or conduits may be used for various applications including telecommunications, electric power, natural gas, petroleum, water lines, sewer lines, or other fluid transport. Horizontal directional drilling is a form of trenchless technology. The equipment and procedures are intended to minimize surface damage, restoration requirements, and disruption of vehicular or maritime traffic with little or no interruption of other existing lines or services. Mini-horizontal directional drilling (min-HDD) is typically used for the relatively shorter distances and smaller diameter pipes associated with local utility distribution lines. In comparison, maxihorizontal directional drilling (maxi-HDD) is typically used for longer distances and larger diameter pipes common in major river crossings. Applications that are intermediate to the mini-HDD or maxi-HDD categories may utilize appropriate “medi” equipment of intermediate size and capabilities. In such cases, the design guidelines and installation practices would follow those described for the mini- or maxi-HDD categories, as judged to be most suitable for each situation.

1.1 This guide describes the design, selection considerations, and installation procedures for the placement of polyethylene pipe or conduit below ground using maxi-horizontal directional drilling equipment. The pipes or conduits may be used for various applications including telecommunications, electric power, natural gas, petroleum, water lines, sewer lines, or other fluid transport.

1.2 Horizontal directional drilling is a form of trenchless technology. The equipment and procedures are intended to minimize surface damage, restoration requirements, and disruption of vehicular or maritime traffic with little or no interruption of other existing lines or services. Mini-horizontal directional drilling (min-HDD) is typically used for the relatively shorter distances and smaller diameter pipes associated with local utility distribution lines. In comparison, maxi-horizontal directional drilling (maxi-HDD) is typically used for longer distances and larger diameter pipes common in major river crossings. Applications that are intermediate to the mini-HDD or maxi-HDD categories may utilize appropriate “medi” equipment of intermediate size and capabilities. In such cases, the design guidelines and installation practices would follow those described for the mini- or maxi-HDD categories, as judged to be most suitable for each situation.

1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information purposes only.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of the regulatory limitations prior to use. Section 6 contains general safety information related to the use of maxi-horizontal directional drilling equipment.