Auger Drill Rigs Make Soil Sampling in Confined Areas Possible

Little Beaver soil sampling

Soil sampling is a critical step in construction, urban agriculture and foundation repair projects. However, not every project has the space to accommodate a big soil sampling rig. For projects in confined spaces — such as a basement, backyard or on a sensitive historical site — finding equipment that can dig deep enough while fitting into these tight areas can be a challenge.

An auger drill rig makes soil sampling easier in restricted access locations by offering a compact, maneuverable design that is precise to control and safe to run with only one operator.

Maneuverability in Tight Spaces

The right equipment can make or break a soil sampling project with space limitations. Handheld samplers might seem like a good solution for tight spaces, but they don’t always reach deep enough to procure the samples you need. Alternatives, such as automated options, can be costly while truck- or trailer-mounted rigs can’t fit into small work areas.

Another challenge is that these projects often take place in urban developments, near or beside houses and fences. Contractors need portable, gentle equipment that doesn’t damage turf, sod or landscaping with its tires or heavy weight.

Some auger drill rigs are compact enough to fit into an elevator and through a doorway or gate and short enough to stand upright under the eaves of a house or other areas with low overhead clearance. Some models even offer an auger tilt that can angle up to 15 degrees to get as close to a structure as possible. These drills can also be light enough to minimize damage to lawns and landscaping.

Depth Precision

Each soil sampling project requires the soil to be collected at a different depth. Some projects, like soil sampling for a home garden, only require sampling to about 4 in. deep. This can be completed with a simple hand sampler, but many projects require deeper digging. Construction and foundation repair projects can vary between 3 ft deep up to 100 ft deep.

  • Utility: 3-10 ft deep
  • Foundation Repair: 3-30 ft deep
  • Construction: 10-100 ft deep

These depths vary based on soil type, what project is being carried out and local regulations. Some local agencies require certain soil sampling depths to be tested before construction takes place. Industry-leading auger drill rigs can dig to 30 ft with a 16-in. auger and up to 100 ft with a 6-in. auger, depending on the soil conditions.

Safe Drilling

Little Beaver soil sampling

Look for an auger drill rig that allows for safe one-man operation with a torque tube to redirect dangerous kickback away from the operator to the power source. The torque tube should have multiple connection points to allow operators to position the drill in the most convenient way possible.

In basements or other enclosed spaces, it’s important to protect against noxious fumes. Removing the engine fumes from the area protects against health hazards while working in close quarters. If the drill rig doesn’t have a separate power unit, make sure the exhaust is ducted outside. If the drill has a separate hydraulic power unit, place the engine carriage outside with an extension hose running to the drill. When doing so, operators should anchor the drill to the floor with screw or concrete anchors. This protects the operator from counterrotation by preventing the drill from jerking or tipping when encountering an underground obstacle.

Soil Sampling with an Auger Drill Rig

Restricted spaces shouldn’t hold up a soil sampling project. When automated, trailer- and truck-mounted options just don’t work, an auger drill rig makes projects easier, safer and more precise.

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