#39 Horizontal Directional Drilling Explained (HDD): A Conversation with Jon Schumchyk

Horizontal Directional Drilling Explained Horizontal Directional Drilling continues to be one of the most effective ways to install critical infrastructure where open cut is not an option. In this episode of the Poly Podcast, we sit down with veteran HDD contractor Jon Schumchyk to break down what really matters when drilling with HDPE. From long road, rail and waterway crossings to complex municipal sewer and utility work, Jon shares why HDPE has become the material of choice for HDD applications. The conversation covers real world constructibility, fusion quality, borehole stability and drilling fluids, along with why flexibility, durability and fused joints make a measurable difference when pulling pipe through challenging ground conditions. This episode also tackles common misconceptions around HDD, including annular space, drilling mud, anchor requirements, pressure testing and material performance during installation. Jon’s field driven insights highlight why HDPE continues to gain acceptance, even in markets historically dominated by metallic pipe. If you are designing, specifying or installing trenchless infrastructure, this is a practical discussion rooted in experience, not theory.