| Feature | Non-destructive digging (NDD) | Traditional mechanical excavation |
|---|---|---|
| Asset safety | Helps reduce the risk of damaging buried pipes, cables, and conduits. | Greater potential for contact with underground utilities when excavation is not carefully controlled. |
| Excavation precision | Targets specific areas with less surrounding ground disturbance. | Can involve broader excavation and greater soil displacement. |
| Environmental impact | Can reduce soil disturbance compared with some mechanical excavation methods. | Can involve greater ground disturbance depending on the equipment and excavation method. |
| Site safety profile | Can help reduce risks associated with utility strikes and some excavation activities when appropriate controls are used. | Requires controls for plant movement, underground services, ground stability, and other excavation hazards. |
| Waste handling | Excavated slurry can be contained in onboard tanks for transport and disposal. | Excavated material may require separate stockpiling, handling, transport, or disposal. |
Non-destructive digging can expose buried utilities, cut narrow trenches, clear soil and debris around structures, and excavate in areas where conventional heavy equipment may pose greater risks to underground services.
SSTC operates Capellotto vacuum trucks with high-pressure hoses that can reach depths of up to 10 metres, depending on site and equipment requirements.
Hydro excavation breaks apart soil using pressurised water rather than steel teeth or buckets. It offers a more controlled way to excavate around identified underground services and reduces the risk of utility damage. Appropriate site planning, utility location, and site-specific safety controls are still required.
You can discuss your site requirements with SSTC by submitting your project specifications online or calling our team directly on 1300 007 782.