What is it?
There are two main categories to look out for, namely:
Non-Destructive Digging Wastes:
Also known as hydro excavation or non-destructive digging (NDD), this method is used to safely expose underground utilities and structures without causing damage. It often involves high-pressure water to break up soil, and a vacuum system to remove the resulting slurry of soil and water. The waste generated from non-destructive digging consists of excavated soil, water, and any debris present in the underground area.
How we treat Non-Destructive Digging Wastes:
There are several ways Non-Destructive Digging Wastes can be treated:
- Sedimentation and Filtration - Sedimentation and filtration processes separate the solid soil particles from the water, allowing for the reuse or proper disposal of each component.
- Dewatering - We remove the excess water from the excavated material, reducing the volume of waste that needs to be managed. This can be achieved through mechanical processes or natural drying methods.
- pH Adjustment - Adjusting the pH of non-destructive digging wastes may be needed, especially if the PH levels are outside regulatory limits. PH adjustment helps ensure that the waste is not overly acidic, minimising potential environmental impacts.
- Reuse of Treated Water - Depending on the contaminants, treated water from non-destructive digging wastes may be suitable for reuse in other plant processes.
- Disposal - The remaining solid material after treatment, as well as any residual liquid that cannot be reused, may need to be disposed of in accordance with local waste management and trade waste regulations.
Drill Muds:
Drill muds, also known as drilling muds or drilling fluids, are specially designed fluids used in drilling operations, particularly in the oil and gas industry. The fluids have various uses to support the drilling processes: they help cool and lubricate the drill bit, carry cuttings to the surface, provide stability to the borehole walls, and prevent blowouts by exerting pressure on the formation being drilled. However, drill muds can become contaminated during the drilling process, picking up substances in the process or from the additives used.
How we treat Drill Muds:
There are several ways drill muds can be treated:
- Solid-Liquid Separation - Drill muds often contain solids like cuttings and additives. Solid-liquid separation methods are used to remove these solids from the mud. This can help in reclaiming and reusing the mud.
- Chemical Treatment - Specific industry recognised low dose chemicals are added to the drill mud to neutralise contaminants – very effective for removing heavy metals or treating water-based drill muds. The treated mud may then undergo additional processes or be suitable for disposal.
