Nilex Earthquake Drains are installed using patented installation methods. The equipment attaches to cranes or excavators, and is usually hydraulically powered. The drain is installed by inserting a tubular steel mandrel containing the drain into the ground, using static crowd force and large vibrations. For retrofitting projects, Earthquake Drains can be installed using low-overhead equipment. In those cases where vibration would be detrimental to existing structures or foundations, Earthquake Drains are installed with drilling equipment or static crowd.

Once the appropriate depth of treatment has been reached, the Earthquake Drain is anchored with a specially designed anchor plate. Earthquake Drains can be installed to depths over 30 m (100 ft).

Typical spacing for Earthquake Drains ranges from 1m - 2 m (3.0 ft - 6.0 ft) center to center, depending on the earthquake magnitude and the soil's permeability and relative density. The tight spacing's result in a uniformly densified deposit and rapid dissipation of earthquake-generated excess pore pressures. In addition to providing efficient drainage paths, the earthquake drain installation method results in higher relative densities.

Installation rates depend on the general resistance of the soils being improved, but can reach 2500 m (8250 ft) for each machine, per work shift. Ground improvement by Earthquake Drains typically takes one quarter to one third of the time required for vibro-replacement. Several machines can be mobilized to increase production.

Nilex Earthquake Drains can be installed at approximately forty to fifty percent of the cost of traditional vibro-replacement stone columns for undeveloped open sites. On retrofit projects, the savings may be even more substantial.