REDUCE UNCERTAINTY

Identify potential ferrous anomalies before intrusive work continues.

ENABLE SAFE WORKS

Support informed decisions during borehole, piling and drilling operations.

SPECIALIST EXPERTISE

Practical, project-focused support from experienced EOD engineers.

WHAT IS DOWNHOLE MAGNETOMETRY?

Downhole magnetometry is a specialist method used to detect ferrous objects and potential unexploded ordnance below the effective detection depth of a surface survey. A sensitive magnetometer probe is progressively lowered into a borehole, allowing the surrounding ground to be checked before drilling or other intrusive work continues. The technique can support conventional boreholes, CPT operations, piling positions and deep ground investigations on both land-based and over-water projects.

DETECTS FERROUS ANOMALIES 
AT DEPTH

SUPPORTS DEEP
GROUND
INVESTIGATIONS

SUITABLE FOR BOREHOLES, PILING AND CPT

AVAILABLE FOR LAND-BASED AND OVER-WATER WORKS

WHEN IS IT REQUIRED?

Downhole magnetometry may be recommended where a UXO risk assessment identifies a credible risk from deeply buried unexploded ordnance. It is particularly useful where boreholes, piles or other intrusive works will extend beyond the reliable detection depth of a surface magnetometer survey. The appropriate mitigation method will depend on the assessed UXO risk, proposed working depth, ground conditions, site access and the type of intrusive work being undertaken.

COMMON APPLICATIONS INCLUDE:

  • Sites with an identified or suspected UXO risk
  • Boreholes and ground investigations
  • CPT locations
  • Piling positions and deep foundations
  • Large-diameter or deep excavations
  • Former military, industrial or heavily bombed areas
  • Land-based and over-water developments

HOW THE PROCESS WORKS

REVIEW

We review the available UXO assessment, proposed works, investigation locations and target depths to establish an appropriate scope.

SCAN

The magnetometer probe is introduced into the borehole or CPT position and readings are taken in controlled stages as the investigation progresses.

ASSESS

The readings are assessed for significant ferrous anomalies that could require further investigation or changes to the planned work.

REPORT

The findings are recorded and communicated clearly, together with any recommendations required before intrusive work continues.

Our downhole magnetometry service can support several drilling and investigation methods, providing a practical solution for different site conditions and access requirements.

FLEXIBLE DEPLOYMENT

CONVENTIONAL BOREHOLES

Downhole magnetometer support can be integrated with conventional ground-investigation drilling. The borehole is advanced in controlled stages, with the magnetometer used to check the surrounding ground before drilling continues to the next agreed depth.

CPT RIG SURVEYS

Downhole magnetometry can also be supported by a Cone Penetration Testing rig. CPT rigs provide a controlled platform for intrusive surveying and can offer an efficient option for multiple investigation or proposed piling positions.

OVER-WATER WORKS

Downhole magnetometry can be undertaken during over-water ground investigations from a suitable pontoon, jack-up platform or other stable drilling platform. This can support proposed boreholes, piles and structural works associated with bridges, ports, harbours, rivers and other waterside infrastructure.

WHAT HAPPENS IF AN ANOMALY IS DETECTED?

If a significant ferrous anomaly is detected, work at that position will be paused and the available information assessed. 
The location, depth, strength and characteristics of the response will be considered before clear advice is provided on the appropriate next steps. These may include repeat scanning, relocating the proposed borehole or pile, further specialist investigation or controlled excavation. 
An anomaly does not automatically confirm the presence of UXO. Rather it indicates a ferrous response that requires appropriate assessment before intrusive work continues.

INFORMATION WE NEED

  • Site location or postcode
  • Site boundary or red-line drawing
  • Existing UXO risk assessment, if available
  • Proposed borehole, CPT or piling layout
  • Diameter and target depth of each position
  • Ground-investigation or piling specification
  • Available ground-condition information
  • Access and over-water logistics, where applicable
  • Proposed programme and required attendance dates

PLANNING BOREHOLES, PILING  ORDEEP GROUNDWORKS?

Talk to UXOS about specialist downhole magnetometer support for your land-based or over-water project. 
We will review your proposed works and help y​​ou identify a practical, proportionate approach to managing the assessed UXO risk.

Safer Ground 
Brighter Futures

 Call us now Request a fast quote