Utility Installation, with 4X Drilling Rig

Keeping busy this week, working closer to Mole HQ for a change!

We were approached by a local family to assist with the installation of a new waterpipe supply as part of a refurbishment project of quite a unique estate which dates back over 200 years.

The picturesque property is certainly a local celebrity siting a stones throw away from on of the first and oldest, brick-built lighthouse in Britain which was commissioned in the 1700’s and still standing proud today.

When attending the survey, we knew this would be the perfect opportunity to use our 4X drilling rig. Due to its small footprint, it would be the most efficient way to complete this installation whilst also keeping the disruption to a minimum allowing the restoration works to continue seamlessly.

The first section of the pipework included a 35m run from the building to the property boundary, allowing the owners to keep the lawn untouched and without the need to remove any hedges, trees and disturb the local wildlife.

We were able to steer the drill to emerge in the exact location and used our F5 unit to track the location and mark the depths. This was easy work for our 4X drill rig and we were able to use only a mild mix of eco drilling fluids to help open and cut away the bore to pull the pipework through in no time at all.

In addition, we have a couple of short shots to bring the pipework into the property in two other locations.

At the rear of the property there was an additional run of the water, data and electric, to feed a new static home. Again, here we are due to cross some old and new drainage, as well as trying to keep the current environment completely undisturbed, where we can.

On route we do have the incoming gas and some drainage to contend with. We would only use a directional drilling rig as we do have a degree of steerability and control for where we would end up. This isn’t something which can be as well controlled using moling technology.

In total we able to install 150m of 32mm water, 50m of 50mm ducting for electric and 50m of 32mm comms ducting.

We were so pleased to be part of such an interesting restoration project and wish the new owners all the best with the rest of the refurbishments!