Probe drilling is generally used in the construction of tunnels, cross passages and shafts. They are used to investigate the ground conditions and water pressures that lie ahead of the excavation and mean that geotechnical design assumptions can be confirmed so that the construction may proceed with confidence.

Probe holes can be drilled radially, axially, or inclined upwards or downwards of distances up to 25m depending on ground conditions. A stuffing box or a blow-out preventer is often needed to reduce the risk of ground loss during drilling. Where probe drilling identifies unstable conditions, bores can be constructed as either wellpoints or ejector wells to allow immediate pore pressure control and enable excavation to continue.

How WJ Groundwater Can Help

Our unique fleet of compact drilling rigs can be operated in restricted access and enclosed space environments. These drilling rigs have fully articulated masts are suitable for both downward and upward drilling and for elevated crown installations. The rigs can be adapted for auger drilling, cased rotary drilling and lost bit drilling with water or air flush. Our highly skilled management and drilling installation team can take care of the design and installation of a range of probing applications.

No matter what your probe drilling requirements are, the team at WJ Groundwater will be pleased to advise and talk through your options.