These investigations are essential for efficient design development and risk reduction, making them a cornerstone of Geotechnical Engineering.
Among the primary methods employed for such investigations is a Geotechnical Borehole, which involves the use of specialised drilling rigs to advance a drill bit into the ground. This process allows for the recovery of samples of soil, rock, and groundwater. Various sampling tools, including core barrels, split-spoon samplers, and tube and piston samples, are utilised to extract accurate data.
The reliability of the collected data is greatly influenced by the method and approach used during the drilling process. Therefore, a skilled and experienced drilling crew is essential to ensure the following considerations are addressed: pre-testing/sampling hole cleaning, maintaining water balance, meticulous calibration of Standard Penetration Test equipment, regular inspections of split spoons, minimising sample disturbance, proper casing installation, routine maintenance and servicing to reduce drilling downtime, and the selection of appropriate drilling bits based on ground conditions to optimise core recovery.
Douglas Partners, in collaboration with their sister company Ground Test, possesses a range of drilling rigs suitable for diverse projects. With multiple locations along the East Coast, their team of skilled and experienced drillers possess the expertise needed to conduct Geotechnical Boreholes proficiently. Their commitment is to ensure the collection of reliable and accurate data, upholding the highest standards in Geotechnical Drilling practices.
