Everything You Need To Know To Find The Best Crawler Mounted Drilling Rigs

What is foundation drilling?

Foundation drilling is, in essence, using big machines to put big holes in the ground.

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Most residential homes have a reinforced, concrete slab foundation poured on top of the ground. Though some settling and shifting will occur, it is not enough to send the walls tumbling down. However, huge structures like bridges and office buildings, need foundations that can handle some movement and are strong enough to carry the weight of the building itself and what's on or inside of it. To do this, large construction projects use foundation drilling rigs to create drilled shafts. Also known as drilled piers, caissons or bored piles, drilled shafts are constructed by pouring concrete into a drilled hole. The load is supported mainly through skin friction where the subsurface soil surrounding the shaft holds it in place. End-bearing shafts carry the weight load on the base of the shaft. This type of drilled shaft is used less often.

The type of rig used depends on several factors. How deep and what the diameter of the holes will be, obviously. But, the type of soil, where the project is located (in a city or out in the boonies), and how much room there is to maneuver are just some of the considerations. The project requirements will also dictate which foundation drilling method is used.

These are the most common drilling methods:

Kelly Drilling 

Kelly drilling is a dry rotary drilling method. It is used to make bored piles with a large diameter, typically over 500mm. It's is popular because it works for most types of rock and soil. A key part of this method is the telescopic drill rod ' also known as the Kelly bar.

Continuous Flight Auger Drilling 

Continuous flight auger drilling is another dry rotary method. It uses rotation of a continuous flight auger to displace soil.  The auger needs to be the same length as the hole that will be drilled. This makes it a good solution for predrilling.

Double Rotary Drilling 

Double rotary drilling combines continuous flight auger drilling with a continuous casing. This method is used for challenging soil conditions or sensitive environments. Drill cuttings are ejected from an opening in the top of the auger.

Full Displacement Drilling 

Full displacement drilling is used for cast-in-place piles. The surrounding soil is only displaced and virtually no drill cuttings are brought to the surface. A smooth casing is used and fitted with a displacement body at the lower end.

Grab Drilling 

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Grab drilling is the oldest of the dry drilling methods. Soil is loosened by cutting or impact driving. This method is typically used for well drilling or cast-in-place piles.

Reverse Circulation Drilling 

Reverse circulation drilling can produce boreholes of about 3.2m diameter. The method is useful in challenging soil conditions such as karst. This method uses the mammoth pump principle. The flushing drill fluid rises inside the drill rod and brings the drill cuttings to the surface.  This technique can be used for soil or rock drilling.

Down-the-Hole Drilling 

For very hard rock or to break up boulders, the down-the-hole drilling method is used. A hammer is mounted on the drill bit at the end of the drill rod. Compressed air is used to pneumatically break and remove the rock or boulders. The bit breaks up the rock by rotating and impacting at the same time. The compressed air moves the loosened drill cuttings to the surface.

No matter the method, there is a foundation drilling rig available to put those big holes in the ground, in the right place, at the right depth.

The right equipment can make all the difference when it comes to drilling, whether for oil, gas or water. That's why choosing the right drilling rig is crucial for the success of any drilling project. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to determine which factors to consider when deciding. From the type of terrain to the depth of the well, there are several critical factors to remember to ensure you choose the right rig for your needs. In this article, we'll explore the top factors to consider when hiring a drilling rig for construction rigs, from the size and power of the rig to the level of experience and certifications of the drilling crew.

Project Requirements

Before hiring a drilling rig, it is critical to identify the exact specifications of your project. A thorough comprehension of the project's scale, such as the well's depth and diameter, the type of terrain or rock you will be drilling through, and any environmental considerations, will aid in narrowing down your options and selecting the appropriate rig for the task at hand. A rig that is too small or lacks the necessary power will not be able to reach the required depth or withstand the drilling conditions, resulting in longer drilling times and escalated expenses.

Experience and Reputation

The level of experience and reputation of the drilling contractor and crew is another crucial factor to consider when hiring a drilling rig. Drilling can be a dangerous and complex task, and working with a contractor with a proven track record of safety and success is essential. A reputable contractor will have the necessary experience, knowledge, and equipment to handle any challenges during the drilling process.

Safety Measures & Quality

The significance of safety cannot be overstated in drilling operations. A proficient drilling contractor should possess a thorough safety plan prioritizing the crew's safety, environment, and neighbouring communities. The contractor should also provide all the required safety equipment, such as personal protective gear, first aid kits, and fire extinguishers, while adhering to strict safety protocols and procedures. Alongside safety, the drilling rig's quality and equipment's quality is also paramount. Properly maintained drilling rigs and equipment guarantee optimal efficiency and reduce the chances of delays and increased costs.

Cost & Availability

Finally, the cost and availability of the drilling rig are essential factors to consider when hiring a drilling rig. Obtaining quotes from multiple drilling contractors to compare prices and services is important. However, it is crucial to note that the cheapest option is not usually the best option. In addition to cost, it is crucial to consider the availability of the drilling rig. It is important to work with a contractor who can provide the rig and crew when you need them. 

Conclusion

Selecting a suitable drilling rig for your project is a crucial decision that can significantly influence its outcome. Evaluating aspects such as project requirements, experience and reputation, safety measures, equipment quality, and cost and availability can aid in identifying the best drill for construction and contractor to achieve a secure, efficient, and productive drilling project. It is essential to conduct thorough research, pose relevant questions, and choose a contractor with a steadfast commitment to safety, quality, and innovation.

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