The Borehole Drilling Procedure in Kenya
1. Hydrogeological survey
This is to establish the soil formation, depth and location of where the actual drilling will be done. It also assists in getting the required government approvals such as NEMA and WARMA certificates.
2. Actual Drilling
Actual drilling involves machine (drilling rig) mobilization and drilling. Drilling begins from above ground upto the recommended depth by the hydrogeologist. During drilling, casing is also done using steel or plastic casings. Borehole casing helps in preventing the borehole from collapsing and prevents impurities from contaminating the borehole water.
3. Test Pumping
Once drilling is complete, test pumping is done to determine the borehole yield or capacity in m3 per hour (m3/hr) This is done by continuously pumping water out of the borehole for 24 hours. Test pumping also helps in selecting the right pump for the borehole.
Watch video of entire borehole drilling procedure
4. Water Chemical Analysis.
This is done to determine the suitability of the borehole water for drinking, irrigation or any other use. Some boreholes produce pure neutral water while others may produce salty water which may require treatment before use.
5. Borehole Equipping.
This entails installation of pvc plastic casings, pumps . Electric submersible, solar submersible or diesel pumps may be installed depending on expert advise. Pipes immersed into the borehole may be uPVC pipes or HDPE pipes, depending on the depth.
6. Auxiliary Services
Includes optional extra services such as installation of pipes, plumbing, irrigation, tank tower construction, tank installation etc. There is a separate quotation for these additions.