Reverse Circulation Drilling
Efficient for creating large-diameter boreholes in unconsolidated formations. Provides uncontaminated samples and excellent borehole stability
Angle Boreholes
Accessing the inaccessible with precision drilling solutions
About
Overcoming Access Limitations
At Igne, we recognise not every target lies directly beneath the surface. Some investigations and installations require boreholes to be drilled at an angle to reach specific subsurface features or to overcome access limitations.
Our angle borehole services offer a flexible and precise solution for such challenges. Whether for ground investigation, environmental monitoring, or infrastructure development, our skilled teams and advanced equipment deliver effective, safe and efficient results.
Explainer
What are Angle Boreholes?
Angle boreholes are boreholes drilled at a non-vertical orientation.
Unlike conventional vertical boreholes, angle boreholes are purposefully inclined to intercept a specific subsurface target that cannot be accessed from directly above. The angle and direction are carefully calculated based on the project’s objectives, site constraints and geological conditions.
Depending on the project’s requirements, angle boreholes can be cored to retrieve continuous geological samples or drilled open-hole where core recovery is not necessary.
The Reasons
Why are Angle Boreholes Used?
There are several scenarios where angle boreholes provide an essential solution:
- when surface access directly above the target is physically impossible or impractical, such as beneath rivers, roads, or existing structures
- to intercept a specific geological feature, fault or void at a defined angle
- to investigate the integrity of underground features without disturbing the surface environment
- to allow for the installation of monitoring equipment in areas that cannot be reached with vertical drilling
A practical example of our work includes drilling angle boreholes beneath a river to access former coal mine workings. Using a Geobore S wireline coring system, we successfully cored into the target zone without the need to divert the river or disrupt the surrounding environment.
This approach allowed instrumentation to be installed to assess the condition and stability of the old mine workings.
The Process
How are angle boreholes drilled?
The process of drilling angle boreholes requires specialised equipment and skilled drilling teams. Igne uses advanced rig systems capable of precise angling and directional control.
The key steps include:
- detailed planning and surveying to determine the optimal drilling angle and alignment
- rig setup at the calculated entry point, ensuring safe and stable positioning
- drilling using appropriate methods such as wireline coring or open-hole drilling
- continuous monitoring and adjustment to maintain the correct trajectory
- sample recovery and analysis where required
- installation of monitoring equipment or completion of the borehole as specified
Each project is tailored to site-specific conditions, including geology, environmental sensitivities and the final purpose of the borehole.
The Benefits
Benefits of using Angle Boreholes
Angle boreholes offer several clear advantages:
- access to otherwise unreachable subsurface targets
- minimal disruption to surface features, infrastructure and natural environments
- precise interception of specific geological features or voids
- flexibility to work around physical or regulatory site constraints
- capability to collect high-quality core samples if required
- allows installation of monitoring systems in complex or sensitive areas
The experts
Our Expertise & Commitment
At Igne, we combine technical excellence with practical experience to deliver effective angle borehole solutions. Our teams are trained in advanced drilling techniques and work closely with geotechnical, environmental and structural specialists to ensure that every borehole meets its objectives safely and efficiently.
We work across the UK, supporting projects in the property, infrastructure, renewable energy and construction sectors. From residential developments to large industrial sites and complex multi-phase projects, we provide the services needed to reduce risk, gather accurate data and enable informed decision-making.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions about Angle Boreholes
- What are angle boreholes used for?
They are used to access subsurface targets that cannot be reached by vertical drilling, such as beneath rivers, roads or existing structures, or to intercept specific features at a desired angle.
- Can angle boreholes be used for environmental monitoring?
Yes, they are often used to install monitoring equipment in locations where vertical access is not possible or would cause too much disturbance.
- What drilling methods are used for angle boreholes?
Methods include wireline coring for continuous core recovery and open-hole drilling where core samples are not required.
- How is the drilling angle determined?
The angle is calculated based on the depth and position of the target, surface access constraints, and geological considerations.
- Can angle boreholes be drilled in all ground conditions?
While they can be used in a variety of ground conditions, careful planning and specialised equipment are required to ensure success, especially in unstable or challenging formations.
- Are angle boreholes more expensive than vertical boreholes?
Costs can be higher due to the specialised equipment and expertise required, but the benefits of accessing otherwise unreachable targets often outweigh the additional expense.
- What sectors use angle boreholes?
They are used in property development, infrastructure projects, environmental monitoring, mining, renewable energy and construction, among others.
- Why choose Igne for angle borehole drilling?
We offer nationwide service, expert drilling teams, advanced equipment and a strong track record in delivering complex drilling projects safely and efficiently.
The Next Step
Contact Igne for Angle Borehole Solutions
If your project requires access to subsurface targets that cannot be reached through conventional vertical drilling, Igne’s angle borehole services provide the solution. Our experienced teams are ready to assist from initial planning and feasibility through to drilling, sampling and equipment installation.
We offer tailored services to meet the specific demands of your site and project objectives. Whether you are investigating geological features, installing monitoring systems, or overcoming site constraints, we have the expertise and equipment to deliver.
Contact Igne today to discuss your angle borehole requirements. Discover how our specialist drilling solutions can help you achieve your project goals with precision and confidence.
Artesian Boreholes
Specially designed to access confined aquifers under pressure. Igne offers complete design, drilling and testing services.
Angle Boreholes
Used where vertical access is limited or to intercept specific targets such as old mine workings or structural features. Can be cored or open holed depending on project requirements.
Drilling with Mud
Supports borehole stability and facilitates drilling in soft or variable ground. Suitable for a range of geotechnical and environmental applications.
Large Diameter Boreholes
For water supply, dewatering, geothermal energy or structural support. Igne has the equipment and expertise to drill large diameters efficiently and safely.
Deep Boreholes
Our teams are experienced in drilling to significant depths, whether for monitoring, exploration, energy or environmental purposes.
Acidisation
Used to improve borehole performance by dissolving scale, mineral deposits or blockages within the borehole or surrounding formation to improve the yield.
Hydrofracturing
Enhances borehole yield by opening fractures in the surrounding rock to increase water flow.
Dewatering
Design and installation of boreholes to lower groundwater levels for construction or mining projects.
Monitoring Boreholes
For groundwater sampling, piezometric monitoring or other environmental assessments. Igne handles design, drilling, installation and instrumentation
Vibrating Wire Piezos
Installation of vibrating wire piezos for accurate measurement of pore water pressure and ground movement.
Fibre Optics
Deployment of fibre optic sensors within boreholes for monitoring temperature, strain or acoustic signals.
Seismic Monitoring
Drilling and installation of boreholes to house seismic monitoring equipment, supporting geotechnical and structural assessments.
Deep Wireline Coring
Recovery of continuous core samples from depth for geological, geotechnical or environmental analysis. In Geobor S, PQ, NQ and HQ.
Gas Control
Design and drilling of boreholes for gas extraction, venting or monitoring, often in brownfield or landfill sites.
Deep Soakaways
Installation of deep boreholes for sustainable drainage and infiltration of surface water.
Decommissioning
Safe and compliant sealing and decommissioning of redundant boreholes to prevent environmental risk.
Specialist Plant & In Hole Equipment Hire
Provision of advanced drilling equipment and downhole tools to support client and contractor projects.
Recovery & Fishing Trouble Shooting
Expert services to retrieve lost or stuck equipment from boreholes and troubleshoot downhole challenges.