Hydro Excavation
High-pressure water excavation for precise, low-impact digging around sensitive underground assets — the controlled method for exposing utilities where accuracy matters.
What is hydro excavation?
Hydro excavation uses a focused jet of high-pressure water to cut and break up the soil, turning it into a slurry that the vacuum immediately lifts into the debris tank. Because the water jet can be directed with precision, the method is ideal for excavating close to buried pipes, cables and conduits where a mechanical excavator could cause a strike.
The water pressure and flow rate are matched to the ground conditions and the sensitivity of the assets in the work zone, giving operators control over how aggressively the soil is removed.
Common applications
- Precision daylighting of live gas and power assets
- Excavating around fibre-optic and telecommunications cables
- Trenching in congested or unknown service corridors
- Exposing service connection points and junctions
- Clearing around valve pits and service boxes
- Investigative excavation where plans are uncertain
Suitable project types
- Utility installation and upgrades
- Subdivision and civil earthworks
- Telecommunications network builds
- Council and water authority works
- Industrial and mining site services
- Emergency service exposure
The typical work process
- 1
Assess
Review service plans, soil type and the assets requiring exposure.
- 2
Set pressure
Match water pressure and flow to ground conditions and asset sensitivity.
- 3
Excavate
Direct the water jet to break up soil while the vacuum removes the slurry.
- 4
Verify
Exposed assets are inspected and recorded before reinstatement.
Safety and planning considerations
- Reduce water pressure near known fragile assets
- Maintain safe standoff from live services
- Use spotters in active work zones
- Confirm service plans and recent locates before digging
Vacuum excavation reduces the risk of service strikes. It does not guarantee zero damage — accurate service plans and planning remain essential.
Equipment details
- Water pressure
- 32 LPM @ 3,600 PSI (248 Bar)
- Dual operation
- Capability for twin NDD operation
- Vacuum performance
- 4,162 m³/h (2,450 CFM) · up to -28” Hg
- Filtration
- Cyclone system with washable poly filters
- Platform
- Hino FM2632 6x4 platform
Service area
We provide hydro excavation across New England, North West NSW and the Upper Hunter from our Tamworth base. Mobilisation depends on project requirements and scheduling.
Frequently asked questions
Need hydro excavation on your site?
Call 0418 790 274 or request a quote with your project details.
Planning excavation work around underground services?
Talk to a regional vacuum excavation specialist. We'll help you scope the work, confirm equipment suitability and arrange mobilisation.