CCL used Blick’s HDD drilling fluids to replace aging water pipes in Naenae, NZ, reducing disruption and saving costs. Smart fluid mixes tackled tricky clay, cut waste, and boosted efficiency — delivering faster, cleaner results for the community and council.

PDC (polycrystalline diamond compact) bits and tricones have advanced over the years. The market is constantly changing and adapting - to new and improved materials and designs. Omer breaks down the pros and cons…

Polyethylene (PE) pipe is commonly used in utility installations throughout Australia and New Zealand. We’re talking about gas, water, power and communication services. The PE pipe is installed using Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) and other trenchless technology methods, using towing heads and swivels.

Drilling in highly reactive, sticky clay can be a real challenge. Your reamer may ball up, making it difficult to cut and clean the hole - resulting in a thick cuttings bed that sticks to the drill pipe.

Following the pilot phase; a reamer is attached to the drill rods, most commonly at the far end of the bore, and pulled back towards the rig following the pilot hole. The style of reamer is influenced by the formation type.

Horizontal Directional Drilling is a common and popular method for installing underground infrastructure. Like all civil engineering methodologies; a scientific approach will reduce risk and increase certainty for the contractor and asset owner.