Subsurface Stories: The Underground Infrastructure Podcast Underground Infrastructure

In this episode of 'Subsurface Stories,' hosts Robert Carpenter and Josh Allen continue discussing the HCD survey published in the June issue of Underground Infrastructure. They explore the concept of hardening power lines by moving them underground to withstand harsh weather conditions. The conversation also delves into the diversification within the HDD (Horizontal Directional Drilling) market, shifting from traditional oil and gas projects to water mains, electric transmission lines, and more. The episode further addresses workforce challenges, the increased demand for HDD technology, and utilities starting to manage some projects in-house. Finally, they touch on the importance of equipment availability and service quality in the industry. For detailed insights, check the June issue of Underground Infrastructure.
 
00:00 Introduction to Subsurface Stories
00:42 The Importance of Hardening Power Lines
04:52 Challenges and Solutions in Underground Power Lines
09:17 Diversification in the Large Rig Market
14:58 Workforce Challenges and Opportunities
19:44 Contractor Needs and Industry Partnerships
25:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Subsurface Stories, host Josh Allen and co-host Robert Carpenter discuss the annual HDD survey published in the June issue of Underground Infrastructure. Robert, who has been conducting this survey for 26 years, explores significant trends and technological advancements in horizontal directional drilling (HDD). They delve into the survey's findings, including the increase in fiber market demands, the effects of the 2021 Infrastructure Bill, and supply chain improvements. Listeners are encouraged to read the detailed results in the June issue for more insights.
 
00:00 Introduction to Subsurface Stories
00:18 Overview of the HDD Survey
01:15 Significance of Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD)
02:52 Survey Methodology and Data Collection
04:46 Key Findings from the HDD Survey
05:56 Market Trends and Projections
11:12 Impact of the Infrastructure Bill
13:15 Challenges and Solutions in the HDD Market
15:32 Hardening of Power Lines
18:15 Conclusion and Next Steps discussions on power line hardening.

Join hosts Robert Carpenter and Josh Allen as they chat with Ralph Kokot, CEO of Vanair Manufacturing. Discover how Vanair's innovative underdeck air compressors and FailSafe® technologies are transforming the underground utilities market. Ralph highlights the benefits of their thermal guard systems and the rise of electrification with the EPEQ® product line. Learn how these advancements are boosting productivity for utility fleets.

In this episode, we talk with Mike Hoffmaster, VP of Business Development at OBIC, live from the Underground Infrastructure Conference in Oklahoma City. Mike shares insights from OBIC’s largest OBICcon event yet, emphasizing the power of collaboration and education within their certified installer network. Discover how OBIC’s commitment to quality and extensive warranties sets them apart in the industry, supporting a rapid expansion from North America to emerging markets in Asia and Europe.
 

In this episode of Subsurface Stories, hosts Robert Carpenter and Josh Allen sit down with Rob Hotz, General Manager of ECI Contracting. They review the intricacies of a horizontal directional drilling (HDD) project in Waukesha, Wisconsin. Despite challenges like ruptured pipelines, contaminated soil, and stringent environmental regulations, the team triumphed through strategic redesigns, innovative engineering, and strong partnerships. Rob shares how ECI overcame significant obstacles through precision drilling, unique dual-material installation, and seamless collaboration with engineering partners.

In this episode of Subsurface Stories, we spotlight HardRock Infrastructure's execution of HDD operations for the Texas International Pipeline Systems (TIPS) project across Galveston Bay. Learn how HardRock's team navigated the complex maritime and geological challenges to lay 44,000 feet of pipeline, connecting crucial energy infrastructure under some of the most testing conditions.