Hydrovac vs. Airvac: Choosing the Right Excavation Method
When it comes to safe and efficient excavation, two of the most common methods are hydrovac excavation and airvac excavation. Both techniques use vacuum technology to expose underground utilities and remove soil, but each has unique strengths. At Infracon, we operate a fleet of both hydrovacs and airvacs, allowing us to match the right equipment to each project’s needs.
What is Hydrovac Excavation?
Hydrovac excavation uses pressurized water to liquefy soil, which is then vacuumed into a debris tank. This method is highly effective for cutting through frozen ground or dense clay, making it a go-to solution during the winter months or in challenging soil conditions.
Advantages of Hydrovac:
- Excels in frozen or compacted soils
- Provides fast, efficient material removal
- Ideal for deep excavation and large-scale daylighting
What is Airvac Excavation?
Airvac excavation uses compressed air instead of water to loosen soil. The loosened material is vacuumed into a debris tank, where it can be reused for backfilling. This dry process is especially useful in certain environments and situations where hydrovac isn’t the most practical choice.
Advantages of Airvac:
- Dry spoil can be reused for immediate backfill
- No introduction of water into the excavation site (prevents mud/slurry)
- Safer for sensitive environments (reduces risk of erosion or contamination)
- Highly effective for working around utilities where water may cause complications
- Lower disposal costs since slurry disposal is not required
When to Use Airvac Over Hydrovac
While hydrovacs are excellent for tough soils and cold climates, airvacs offer unique advantages in situations such as:
- Utility installations in urban environments where slurry disposal is costly or difficult
- Environmental projects where adding water could spread contaminants
- Tight access jobs where minimal cleanup and spoil reuse save time and cost
- Projects requiring precise backfill with native soil
- Remote projects where local disposal is not an option
Infracon’s Advantage
By offering both hydrovac and airvac services, Infracon gives clients the flexibility to choose the most cost-effective, environmentally responsible, and project-appropriate solution. Whether it’s frozen ground in northern BC or a sensitive site requiring dry excavation, our team ensures the right tool is on-site to keep projects safe, efficient, and on schedule.
Looking for hydrovac or airvac services?
Contact Infracon today to discuss which excavation method is right for your project.