HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL BORING AT LEWIS PRISON COMPLEX

The drilling technique of directional boring is not new technology. But only during the last several years has directional boring technology been adapted to the construction industry for horizontal work such as installing utilities. However, soil condition and composition must be carefully considered before selecting directional boring as a utility placement method. The Arizona Lewis Prison complex project required construction of four utility lines under a state highway, one of which was a 12-in. sewer line. Close grade tolerances are typical for sewer lines, and because of that fact, many boring companies do not attempt such work. This report about the project illustrates why such caution is justified.