Non Destructive Digging

Excavac • July 16, 2019

Clean, Green and Efficient

Clean, green non-destructive digging from Excavac

Large-scale investment by the NSW Government in infrastructure, aligned with increasing concerns for safety & the environment, mean ‘old school’ methods of excavation are now making way for ‘new schools of thought’. 


With 10 key infrastructure projects in metro and regional areas currently underway, including a $90 million investment into Sydney’s Rail Future, investment in the construction and civil sectors is virtually unprecedented.


To minimise the impact on the environment, non-destructive digging (NDD) is now the ‘go to’ method when it comes to both large scale & domestic projects. 


Using high-pressure water and a vacuum to break up and remove earth (as a safer and more precise way of excavating) NDD also has the benefit of exposing utilities and underground pipes minimising the risk of damaging them.


Cost effective, time efficient and regarded as a safer alternative to traditional methods, it also creates less noise and dust pollution and helps eliminate workers’ exposure to possible environmental hazards.


Using precise, high-pressure water and an air vacuum, NDD cuts through the soil before an air vacuum is used to haul and transfer the soil to a debris tank mounted on a ‘sucker’ truck.


Mimicking the effect of mechanical digging, the targeted water pressure doesn’t impact the surrounding area, underground assets or tree roots.


Since hydro excavation (sucker) trucks can be positioned at a distance, problems connected with heavy machinery obstructing large areas can also minimised.


Now widely used within the plumbing, construction, landscaping & installation sectors, NDD is also suitable for use with straightening power poles and soil sample coring.

Sucker truck operating at Sydney Opera House
April 4, 2025
Beyond non-destructive digging, vacuum trucks are also widely used for sewer and storm drain cleaning, septic tank emptying, and catch basin maintenance. Their versatility makes them indispensable for various site management tasks.
By Guy Rowlison November 28, 2024
Environmental degradation is a growing concern, and improper waste disposal doesn't just harm ecosystems — it also poses significant risks to workers and the public. When waste is not managed correctly, the concentration and total mass of discharged substances can create serious health and safety hazards. Beyond the environmental and personal impacts, operators risk substantial fines for non-compliance with waste disposal regulations. High-performance, non-destructive equipment like hydro vacuum trucks makes pit cleaning quick, efficient, and thorough. Hydro vacuum cleaning of electrical and communication pits is widely regarded as the most practical method for ensuring these areas are properly maintained. This innovative technique is incredibly versatile and offers solutions for a wide range of applications, including: Removing waste Cleaning sewer systems, stormwater drains, and pipes Electrical and communication pit cleaning Liquid waste removal Tank and vessel cleaning Emergency spill response Scheduled maintenance shutdowns Hydro vacuum cleaning also plays a critical role in the petroleum industry, where it is used to clean storage tanks, manage spills, and remove drilling mud, cuttings, cement, and brine water from production tanks. In fact, these services have become virtually mandatory in modern industrial and commercial operations due to their efficiency and safety. Whether dealing with public facilities, shopping centres, large industrial sites, rental properties, or renovation projects, programmed maintenance involving hydro vacuum cleaning can prevent minor waste issues from becoming major, complex problems. By addressing waste removal and cleaning needs proactively, businesses can ensure compliance, improve safety, and minimise environmental impact. Beyond its practical benefits, hydro vacuum cleaning is also cost-effective. It reduces downtime, limits labour-intensive processes, and ensures thorough results. These features make it an attractive choice for industries aiming to improve their environmental footprint without compromising operational efficiency. Sustainability starts with rethinking how we treat waste. Employing advanced cleaning techniques like hydro vacuum cleaning helps preserve our environment by delivering efficient, safe, and technologically responsible solutions for water, waste, and energy management. For more information about how vacuum and pit clearing trucks can support your operations, contact us today by phone or email. Let’s work together for a cleaner, safer future.
Vacuum truck for non-destructive digging tasks
August 26, 2024
Excavac has been a leader in non-destructive excavation and vacuum truck services, offering a modern fleet that ensures safe, efficient, and cost-effective management of both wet and dry waste. Call today for more information.
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