Glossary

Pipeline Exposure

What is Pipeline Exposure?

Pipeline exposure is using hydro excavation to safely uncover a buried pipeline for inspection, repair, tie-in, or integrity assessment without damaging the coating or the pipe itself.

Pipeline exposure (also called bell-holing or pipe daylighting) uses pressurized water and vacuum to remove soil from around an existing pipeline so crews can inspect welds, coatings, and corrosion or make repairs and connections. Non-destructive digging is essential here because a blade or bucket could gouge the pipe or its protective coating.

This work is common in oil, gas, and water pipeline maintenance and integrity digs, often over long runs that combine with slot trenching. A hydrovac truck with strong CFM and adequate boom reach is the typical tool. Rent pipeline exposure equipment through a free Vac4Rent request.