Directional boring, commonly called horizontal directional drilling or HDD, is a steerable trenchless method of installing underground pipes, conduits and cables in a shallow arc along a prescribed bore path by using a surface launched drilling rig, with minimal impact on the surrounding area.  Directional boring is used when trenching or excavating is not practical.  Directional boring minimizes environmental disruption.  It is suitable for a variety of soil conditions and jobs including road, landscape and river crossings.  Pipes can be made of materials such a PVC, polyethylene, Ductile iron, and steel.

Directional boring is used instead of other techniques to provide less traffic disruption, lower cost, deeper and/or longer installation, no access pit, shorter completion times, directional capabilities, and environmental safety.