Technology, precision and sustainability: how Horizontal Directional Drilling is transforming the underground works sector

Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) has become one of the most advanced technologies for underground works infrastructure in complex environments. Its combination of engineering, control and efficiency makes it an essential system for projects where precision and minimal surface impact are non‑negotiable requirements.

At Catalana Drilling, this technique is at the core of our expertise, supported by state‑of‑the‑art equipment and an operational approach based on technical excellence.

Beyond the basic technical explanations, HDD is an exercise in precision engineering.

Each drilling operation involves:

• Preliminary design of the drilling path, analysing the terrain through geotechnical studies, defining curvature radii and considering environmental variables.
• Selection of the drill head and tools according to soil type, abrasiveness and the presence of boulders or heterogeneous strata.
• Continuous control of the drilling path, adjusting parameters such as thrust, torque, drilling fluid flow and penetration rate.
• Technical management of drilling fluids, essential for stabilising the borehole, removing cuttings and protecting the tools used.

This approach enables us to carry out safe and stable drillings even in adverse geological conditions, taking into account soil types and the surrounding flora and fauna.

Modern HDD relies on guidance technologies that allow the exact position of the drill head to be known in real time, with millimetric accuracy.

At Catalana Drilling, we use the following systems to ensure precise tracking of the drill head:

• Electromagnetic sondes, ideal for urban alignments with controlled interference
• Wire‑line guidance systems, suitable for long drillings or highly conductive ground conditions
• Monitoring software, integrating depth, inclination, orientation and curvature data
• This level of precision is essential in congested environments where existing underground utilities are highly likely

HDD projects not only reduce surface disruption but also minimise the overall environmental impact of the works in both urban and interurban areas:

• Reduced earthworks, lowering emissions and material transport
• Savings in civil infrastructure, such as pavements and roads, reducing costs and waste
• Protection and preservation of ecosystems, especially in river crossings, sensitive areas or shore approach projects
• Lower noise and disturbance levels, a key factor in urban environments

In a world where sustainability is a key award criterion, HDD stands out as a clearly advantageous solution compared to more conventional methods.

Although HDD is highly efficient, the success of each project depends directly on the technical capability of the team executing it.

The most common challenges include:

• Mixed ground conditions, requiring tool changes or constant adjustments
• Electromagnetic interference, requiring alternative guidance systems
• Long‑distance drillings, where drilling fluid management and borehole stability are critical
• Tight curvature radii, demanding meticulous planning

With more than 55 years of experience in the sector, Catalana Drilling has highly qualified teams with extensive expertise in technically demanding projects, where anticipation and problem‑solving are essential to meet deadlines and ensure safety.

Technology and tools are essential, but they represent only part of a project’s success.

At Catalana Drilling we provide:

• State‑of‑the‑art drilling equipment, adaptable to multiple scenarios
• A specialised technical team, with extensive experience in complex underground works
• Work methodologies based on control, safety and precision
• The ability to execute unique projects, where HDD is the only viable solution

Our approach combines engineering, innovation and flawless execution to guarantee reliable results in any environment.

Horizontal Directional Drilling represents the evolution of underground construction methods: greater precision, greater sustainability and greater safety. Its ability to solve complex alignments with minimal impact makes it an essential technology for today’s and tomorrow’s infrastructure.

At Catalana Drilling, we continue to drive this technique forward with a clear commitment: to deliver high‑value technical solutions that address the real challenges of the sector.