In recent years, there has been a new trend in geotechnical site investigations using sonic drill rigs. This new technology is a product of the ever-evolving drilling industry in its pursuit to remain a significant and sustainable business sector.
Sonic drilling is an advanced and efficient method of soil penetration, harnessing the power of high-frequency resonance generated inside a sonic head, creating a smoother path for the drill to travel by reducing any frictional resistance encountered from subsurface formations.
This innovative drilling technology works by creating a liquefying effect from the vibrations emanated within the sonic head, causing the surrounding subsurface materials to be displaced and paving the way for the drill head to advance and reach the operator’s objectives.
But why is sonic technology considered the present and the future of drilling? Here’s why:
Produces Superior Core Samples
Wastes produced from a site investigation are not only harmful to the environment but can also corrupt the integrity of the samples.
But with the incredible design and engineering ingenuity of the sonic drill rigs, the integrity of the core samples produced is incredibly high and superior compared to other drilling methods available today.
The innovative casing system of this advanced equipment makes this feat possible by preserving the integrity of the samples by as little as 1% deviation.
Sonic Drill Rigs Are Versatile and Flexible
When it comes to drilling, no two site investigations are the same. Thus, the ability of the equipment to adapt to any circumstances is a plus factor. No other method is as flexible and versatile as sonic drill rigs. That’s why it is the preferred method, especially when it comes to overburdened investigation sites.
However, a preliminary investigation of the site is needed to ensure that the method and tool to be employed are accurate and deliver the target result as possible.
Protects the Environment
Another advantage of sonic is waste minimization. Because of its penetration speed and the reduction of friction, the operation on the site is reduced, which means less energy consumption.
Highlights the Importance of Safety at Work
Sonic rigs are designed and built with occupational health and safety as top priorities. By using hands-free operating systems and artificial intelligence (AI) to operate the equipment, fewer people are needed on the site, and thus minimizing the potential risks during the operation.
Allows Efficient Penetration and Maximum Core Recovery
By using high-frequency resonance to eliminate friction between subsurface materials as the core barrel advances, sonic technology allows efficient penetration and maximum recovery in any unconsolidated formations with unmatched speed.
To sum up, sonic may not be the best solution for every project, but it has the potential of achieving incredibly high results in any geotechnical or environmental explorations that are previously considered unviable.