Our Services
We have a range of solutions to meet your requirements.
BDC aims to provide turnkey water solutions to meet your water supply needs underpinned by our commitment to honesty and integrity.
We are “Water at its Best.”
Our Services
Borehole Drilling
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Services And Maintenance
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Water Testing And Filtration
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Installations
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Borehole Drilling
Considering the escalating water costs, drilling a borehole for a domestic home or commercial property is becoming a more viable and cost-effective solution for water supply. Keeping your garden green all year round without relying on municipal water is one of the benefits of installing a borehole on your property.
,Irrigating your garden from a borehole helps to reduce your carbon footprint. Huge amounts of coal are burnt to lift water from dams and rivers and treat this water only to have it end up on your lawn and flowerbeds. The cost of sewage disposal is calculated on the basis of how much water you use. By using borehole water to irrigate your garden, fill your pool and water features and wash your car, you avoid paying the double tariff. Borehole water can provide you with clean, fresh water that has many uses around your home or business. Our Drilling equipment is compact so it can easily access those hard to reach places which conventional drilling machines are unable to do so.
We go where the water is. The size of the rig means that minimises damage to property and surrounding areas. It has low noise levels and is fairly unobtrusive. The drilling rig is mounted on a small skid steer loader (bobcat).
The machine is capable of drilling 6.5 inch boreholes to a depth of about 120 m. It is also able to drill through hard rock. Our process is environmentally friendly with very low ground impact.
THE BENEFITS OF A BOREHOLE:
There are many reasons why residential homeowners choose to invest in borehole drilling on their properties:-
- If your municipality is unable to provide you with water then a borehole can give you direct access to water
- Clean, potable borehole water means that you have water independence from municipal sources and you can go off the grid.
- With a borehole you say goodbye to frustrating water cuts, municipal disruptions and water rationing during times of drought.
- With a borehole on your property, you will save money every day by reducing your municipal bill and will increase the value of your property.
- Water from your own borehole is not treated with chemicals so there is no added fluoride or chlorine. In fact, most of the bottled water available from the shops comes from boreholes.
- A borehole also reduces your carbon footprint
- A borehole also keep the garden beautifully green and luscious even in a drought.
Borehole Pump & Tank Installation
We have a range of products and solutions that will provide for your home or business water needs. Regular water cuts and water shedding are becoming regular occurrences. Aging water infrastructure and ongoing maintenance needs often result in regular water cuts. This results in water shedding which is the reduction in water pressure to prevent damage to infrastructure. Clearly this is becoming the order of the day. Today’s homes and businesses are looking for ways to secure their water supply. Revitalising your old borehole system or installing back up water tanks will ensure that you are not left high and dry the next time the taps are turned off.
We offer turnkey solutions that take water from your borehole or tank directly to your home and/or irrigation system. With a turn of the tap we ensure instant water supply. Our professional workmanship and superior products offer a reliable and lasting water system.
Water Siting & Surveying
The Resistivity Method
At Blue River Drilling we predominantly use the Resistivity Method for the surveying and siting of boreholes. Resistivity is the measure of the ability of a substance/matter to resist an electrical current. Resistance is measured in Ohms. All matter resists the flow of electrical current through it. The degree of resistance is given a value measured in ohms. The difference in the resistivity of the rock types can be measured which can then be correlated with potential, or possible, water bearing zones. Water conductivity is the most important cause of electrical conductivity in rock formations so this method is will indicate the groundwater occurrences. When this information is applied and interpreted it can indicate the depths at which there exists a potential water bearing breaks, fissures or faults. The equipment does not only pick up water but also indicates the change in rock formations and the subsequent breaks, fissures and faults that occur at these points. Where the rock is weathered and broken down the resistivity will be lower. The more porous (weathered) the rock is, the lower the resistivity as indicated in the table below:
| Formation | Porosity % |
| Soils | 50 |
| Clays | 45 |
| Sands & Gravels | 30 to 40 |
| Completely decomposed rock | 30 to 40 |
| Highly decomposed rock | 16 to 24 |
| Moderately decomposed rock | 4 to 16 |
| Slightly weathered rock | 1.3 to 3 |
| Fresh rock | 0.05 to 0.3 |
There are three parts to siting of the borehole:
- Observation: This process starts when you meet with your borehole consultant. You will discuss existing boreholes in your area and the depths of these boreholes. If you do not have this information available you will be encouraged to look around your neighbourhood for boreholes signs, tanks or any other signs of boreholes (ie very green grass and luscious flowerbeds). If you can speak to these neighbours it will add to the information we can use when siting your borehole.
- Hydrogeological assessment: This involves making field observations of the local geology, hydrogeology and existing water sources. Rock exposures can give more information on local geology. The driller also informs the geologist what ground formations they have encountered in the area while drilling and also shares the client’s observations.The geophysicist will take into account geological and natural factors and phenomena (topography) that occur in the region. She is already studying the area and making observations as she enters the area where she is to do the siting. All this information provides a starting point to identifying the potential water bearing drilling sites. Geological maps are also consulted in order to gain further knowledge of the geology of the area. These maps are available on a computer programme making this analysis very accurate and will further inform the survey.
- Geophysical: The Geophysical survey is conducted to locate the most viable of these drilling sites with the use of the most advanced proven technology utilizing the principle of Ohm’s Law and Electrical Resistivity. The resistivity technique is the longest established geophysical method used to site boreholes in Africa. It has been used successfully for more than 50 years. The most common resistivity survey method used in Africa is vertical electrical depth sounding (VES for short). Ground resistivity is measured by passing an electrical current through the ground and measuring the potential difference between two points. Ohms l law is then used to calculate the resistance. Electrodes are expanded on either side of a single midpoint and then moved to a set of distances. When the electrode spacing is very wide, the electric currents pass deeper into the ground.
The objective of the geophysical survey is to locate weathered zones in the rock formation. A weathered zone can be described as a zone where rock has degraded into smaller particles such as clay, sand, gravel and stone. Weathered zones are usually formed through the breakdown of the rock either through water erosion or chemical breakdown. The compact hard rock will have a very high resistivity. But decomposed/weathered rock saturated with fresh water will have much less resistivity. Resistivity decreases with increasing saturation of water in the rock. We do not only want to find those areas of decreased resistivity (high conductivity), we also want to find the thickest weathered zones.
The resistivity of a medium is dependent upon its minerals and degree of water saturation. Most minerals are having very high resistivity. The compact hard rock has also very high resistivity. But decomposed/weathered rock saturated with fresh water will have much less resistivity. Resistivity decreases with increasing saturation of water in the rock. Based on this aspect the common range of resistivity of rocks and water is given in table:
| Rock | Range of Resistivity of Rock Types (Ohm-m) |
| Clay | 1 – 10 |
| Sand | 30 – 60 fresh water, 1 to20 saline water |
| Weathered Granite Rock | 20 – 40 fresh and 5 to 15 saline water |
| Fractured granite rock | 40 to 150 fresh and 500-1500 and more for Dry rock |
| Massive Granite | 1000 to > 10,000 Ohm-m |
It is clear that the degree of resistivity values varies depending on the degree of the extent of weathering and saturation of fresh or saline water. The objective of the resistivity surveys are as follows:
- Depth & extent of aquifer in a stratified form
- Depth, thickness, extent of weathered/ fractured zones & the extent of massive rock.
- Structural and stratigraphic conditions controlling the occurrence movement & distribution of ground water.
- Potential of aquifers depending upon the effective porosity,
- Salinity distribution, pollution and contamination.
- Movement of ground water
- Depth of water table
Electro-Seismic Surveying Method
This method is based on the phenomenon of electro-seismic signals that are generated through the relative movement of the water against the substrata rock matrix. This movement of ground water is established through a seismic wave. The presence of water is determined by the processing and interpretation of the electrokinetic signal. The estimated depth and probable geology can also be determined. The water is responsible for the generation of the electro-seismic signals.
Through the ages man has always strived to locate usable ground water but up until recent times the only way to determine the presence of water was by drilling. This unique method of locating groundwater brings a new dimension to geophysics. It improves the time and cost of groundwater development and investigations.
The electromagnetic method
This method measures the difference in the electromagnetic conducting abilities of the rock formations. The change in the normal magnetic field of the earth is perceived which can be then used for picking up concealed geological contacts such as dolerite dykes. Knowledge of electromagnetic theory is desirable for a successful interpretation as an experienced knowledge of the interpreting the data will result in a successful borehole in the right geological area.
The limitations of this method is the problem of “cultural noise”. Man-made structures that are constructed using ferrous material, such as steel, can interfere with the quality of the data. Features to be avoided include steel structures, power lines, metal fences, steel reinforced concrete, surface metal, pipelines and underground utilities. The inability of the interpretation methods to differentiate between various steel objects is another disadvantage. For example, it is not possible to determine if an anomaly is the result of a stack of steel plates or a zinc roof.
Borehole Yield Test
The process whereby a borehole is subjected to pumping under controlled test conditions in order to determine its performance characteristics. A borehole yield is the volume of water that can be abstracted from a borehole. The borehole yield test is done primarily to determine the sustainable flow or quantity of water moving from the surrounding aquifer, or breaks, into the borehole. The borehole yield test gives us important information about the borehole and how it should be equipped. When we arrive at the borehole to do the yield test we measure the height of the water before pumping. This is called the static water level. Once we start abstracting the water the from the borehole we will reach a water level where the water flowing into the borehole, from the surrounding aquifer/breaks, that is the borehole recharge, is equal to the flow of water being pumped out of the borehole. This is called the dynamic water level. We then calculate how much water is being pumped out of the borehole without it running dry. This is called the yield of the borehole.
In order to pump the borehole at a sustainable rate, which will also accommodate the dry seasons, it is recommended that the borehole be pumped at approximately 70% of its yield. Hence, if a borehole is producing 1000 litres per hour then we will want to abstract the borehole water at 700 litres per hour. One may be tempted to pump the borehole to its maximum capacity but this is never a good idea. In many cases the continuous over pumping of a borehole will lead to the eventual complete failure of the borehole. Sands and silts are drawn into the borehole ultimately clogging up the borehole and rendering it useless. To ensure the sustainability of the borehole, and to prevent it from running dry, one would ideally want to pump at a rate of 70% of this dynamic level. So, for example, if the borehole yields 1 000 litres per hour, one would pump the borehole at 700 litres per hour.
A borehole yield test is highly recommended after the borehole has been drilled. When the drilling contractor completes the borehole he will provide the client with an estimated yield. This estimation should not be used as a substitute for a more accurate yield test. There are many factors which influence the volume of water that is blown out out of the borehole with a compressor and only a yield test will be able to give you more accurate information.
In order to make the correct pump selection for your particular borehole, it is important to determine the yield of the borehole. The incorrect pump selection can have a detrimental impact on the borehole. It can lead to the borehole running dry and ultimately render it non-viable. Pumping a borehole at a sustainable rate will go a long way to ensuring the sustainability of your borehole and the pumping equipment.
Water Quality Testing and Filtration Systems
A water filtration system will give you the peace of mind you need for you and your family. Filtration systems disinfect and remove contaminants from your water supply. They address problems such as corrosiveness, hardness, heavy metals and organic contaminants.
At Blue River Drilling SA will collect the sample and have it analysed by our SANAS accredited laboratory. The water sample parameters are tested according to the SANAS 241:2011 standards.
Before installing a filtration system it is important to do a water quality test. At Blue River Drilling SA we take a water sample from your borehole and send it to a SANAS accredited laboratory where a full potable water analysis is done. The standard that we use for water sampling is the SANS 0241 – National Drinking Water Standard in which the Physical/Aesthetic, Chemical and Biological parameters are tested. We then do an analysis of these parameters and provide you with a detailed report of your borehole water. On the basis of this report we provide recommendation for your filtration system.
It is recommended that a water quality test be done on an annual basis so as to ensure that it remains safe to use your borehole.
For more information on the water quality test click here.
For more information on the parameters of the water quality test click here.
The filtration system installed should address the problem parameters before the water is used in the house or garden. Basic filtration will include:
– Sand Filter for sediment
– 20″ Triple Big Blue Filter System for sediment, colour and odour
– 55 Watt UV Light for disinfectant
Contact us for more information.
Borehole Rehabilitation
Given the high cost of a new borehole, one might want to rehabilitate an existing borehole. Our assessment includes the testing of the borehole equipment and the structure of the borehole. A thorough assessment will determine whether the existing borehole is viable or not.
The assessment of the equipment will look at the condition of the borehole pump, tank and booster pump. In many cases the borehole equipment is no longer in working order and will need to be replaced. Before we replace the equipment we will need to do an assessment of the borehole structure as well as measuring the flow or yield.
To determine the integrity of the borehole we will insert an inspection camera. The camera will show if the surrounding walls of the borehole are still intact. We look for signs of collapse and/or corrosion. In the event that the walls of the borehole shows signs of collapse we will recommend that the borehole be fully cased. There is a high risk of losing the borehole equipment in a hole that shows signs of collapse.
The viability of an existing borehole is also determined by the flow of the water into the borehole. A yield test will provide information regarding the flow. We can then make a recommendation on whether to equip the hole or not. In the case where the borehole is still viable, we can then also advise on the correct pumping equipment.
In the case of a dry borehole we would recommend a geological survey to determine the viability of drilling deeper. If it is viable, we are able to drill the hole deeper in order to access the deeper breaks, fissures or aquifers. Many old boreholes were not drilled very deep and with the recent droughts and climate change, these boreholes have run dry. Drilling a borehole deeper can improve the flow of the borehole and bring it back to life.
Construction – Piling, Solar Stand holes & Fence Holes
Considering the escalating water costs, drilling a borehole for a domestic home or commercial property is becoming a more viable and cost effective solution for water supply. Keeping your garden green all year round without relying on municipal water is one of the benefits of installing a borehole on your property. Irrigating your garden from a borehole helps to reduce your carbon footprint. Huge amounts of coal are burnt to lift water from dams and rivers and treat this water only to have it end up on your lawn and flowerbeds. The cost of sewage disposal is calculated on the basis of how much water you use. By using borehole water to irrigate your garden, fill your pool and water features and wash your car, you avoid paying the double tariff. Borehole water can provide you with clean, fresh water that has many uses around your home or business. Our Drilling equipment is compact so it can easily access those hard to reach places which conventional drilling machines are unable to do so. We go where the water is. The size of the rig means that minimises damage to property and surrounding areas. It has low noise levels and is fairly unobtrusive. The drilling rig is mounted on a small skid steer loader (bobcat). The machine is capable of drilling 6.5 inch boreholes to a depth of about 120 m. It is also able to drill through hard rock. Our process is environmentally friendly with very low ground impact.