Geocore Site Investigations was engaged by G.H. Saul Consulting Engineers to undertake the drilling and installation of a 60-metre-deep borehole intended for agricultural use, specifically for livestock and general farming. The project required a high degree of geological understanding due to the location being above the Old Red Sandstone formation, with the rock strata dipping eastward at angles ranging from 2 to 4 degrees from outcrop to site.
To carry out the work, Geocore mobilised one of their Comacchio 602 drilling rigs, a reliable choice for deep and precise borehole drilling. The borehole was planned with a minimum finished diameter of 197 mm to ensure sufficient capacity for water extraction and long-term structural integrity. Attention to geological conditions was essential to ensure proper depth and stability throughout the drilling process.
Installation involved lining the borehole with 140 mm x 125 mm uPVC solid and slotted casing down to approximately 60 metres or full depth, depending on the geological conditions encountered. This casing system was chosen for its durability, corrosion resistance, and effectiveness in water flow management. Below this casing depth, the borehole was designed to leave the sandstone formation exposed, promoting natural filtration and access to the aquifer.
The successful completion of this project provided the client with a sustainable and reliable water source for agricultural use. The combination of careful geological assessment, expert drilling execution, and high-quality materials ensured that the borehole met both current and future needs of the farm.