Geotechnical Investigation has become a popular profession for those who are equipped with all the required drilling equipment and knowledge regarding the drilling techniques. Geotechnical explorations have been going on for centuries in numerous countries. It is the responsibility of the geotechnical experts to collect data about the structure and nature of the ground, which plays a significant role in the functioning of the natural environments. For a successful exploration, geotechnical experts need to choose the most appropriate drilling method that involves fewer risks of damage or injury to the soil and surface layers. They need to analyze all the available data to prepare the geotechnical report that details all the findings gathered from the drilling activities.
Core drilling is the most common drilling technique:
Geotechnical professionals can explore and test different kinds of resources such as clay, sandstone, shale, limestone, and coal. The most common drilling technique used by engineers is the use of core drilling. This method involves breaking up the solid material into a fine dust so that it can be easily studied later. Geotechnical experts can also use other techniques such as borehole drilling, gravity well drilling, and surface drilling.
In addition, these professionals can also make use of geotechnical software that helps them in analyzing all the data they collected from the drilling operation. These software applications and computer databases are extensively used by petroleum and mineral exploration companies as well as mining industries to locate mineral pockets, evaluate the potential for deposits, and detect fracture zones.
Quality of the soil is a must for drilling:
Geotechnical investigations require the expertise of highly skilled geotechnical engineers and technicians who are supported by well-experienced geotechnical surveyors. A typical geotechnical survey consists of several specialized stages. It starts with the detailed topography survey, which reveals the general area where drilling will take place and its texture and rock type. In addition, the survey indicates the topography and associated features that help in determining the location and quality of the soil for drilling.
Geotechnical explorations can either be horizontal or vertical. In the former, the equipment is placed on the ground in order to determine the location and depth of underground mineral cavities. They can also use sonar or radar in order to determine the location of fractures and other important features. Meanwhile, in vertical drilling, equipment is raised above the ground, and gears and pipes are inserted into them in order to extract the bounty. As such, this type of exploration requires experienced and trained personnel who have a thorough knowledge of how the various pieces of equipment function together.
Well, drilling equipment:
Another popular form of geotechnical drilling in Pakistan is the use of well drilling equipment. This equipment is used to produce water from below the surface and is considered one of the safest methods of extracting oil. Most Pakistani well drilling companies adhere to international standards and regulations and strictly adhere to safety procedures. They also take extra efforts to make sure that their workers are safe during the process.
A geotechnical investigation is carried out for many reasons. Experts believe that these investigations provide an opportunity to assess and discover natural faults and fractures in the earth. Aside from this, they also help in the detection and evaluation of the structural integrity of underground cavities and formations. They may also be conducted to locate and evaluate water resource management and infrastructure design.
Successful geotechnical drilling:
In order to achieve a successful geotechnical drilling operation, proper training must be obtained. It is only through this training that geologists will be able to determine the most appropriate equipment and technology to use during the process. The geotechnical engineers should also be well-equipped with knowledge about the latest geotechnical technologies like the C-Band system and advanced numerical analysis software. They must be familiar with the installation procedures of equipment such as borehole drills and types of equipment. The geologists also have to have a thorough understanding of the regulations and rules set by the Islamabad Geotechnical Investigation Agency.
Many private companies and institutions offer geotechnical investigation services in Pakistan. However, it is important to choose only those professionals who have gained the certification and have extensive experience in this field. Only then can you be sure that your well-being is in safe hands. If a professional geologist is unable to deliver all these, it is better to entrust the task to someone else.