Soil investigation work rarely fails because the ground is “too hard”. It fails because the crew arrives with missing or mismatched gear, then spends the day improvising. One wrong sampler, a worn cutting shoe, or poor labeling tools can turn a clean investigation into questionable results. If you want dependable logs and samples, you need the right geotechnical drilling equipment on site from the start, not halfway through the job.
This checklist keeps your team ready for common UAE soil investigation scopes, from SPT work to Shelby tube sampling.
Start with the Geotechnical drilling rig essentials
A reliable Geotechnical drilling rig setup is the foundation. Before you think about samplers, confirm the rig can drill, hold line and level, and run tests safely.
Rig readiness items to confirm
- Mast capacity and safe working range for planned depths
- Stable leveling support for sand, fill, or soft ground
- Clean, functional hoist and wireline systems
- Working gauges and displays for basic monitoring
- Barriers, signage, and a clear exclusion zone plan
When the rig is stable and controlled, every test and sample improves.
Drilling rig tools and equipment for SPT work
SPT is common in granular soils, and it depends on consistency. Your results are only as good as your setup and routine.
Core SPT kit
- Standard split spoon sampler with correct dimensions
- Drop hammer and safety guide assembly
- Anvil, rods, and drive head in good condition
- Measuring tape and blow count recording sheet
- Rod handling tools and thread cleaning supplies
Field checks that protect quality
- Confirm hammer drop height and smooth operation
- Keep rods straight and connections properly made up
- Record blows by interval clearly, without “estimating” later
This is where drilling rig tools and equipment directly affect the credibility of your data.
Drill rig tools for borehole sampling and logging
Borehole sampling is not only about getting soil out of the ground. It is about keeping it representative, labeled, and traceable.
Essential drill rig tools
- Sampling tubes and cutting shoes matched to soil type
- Sample containers, caps, and sealing tape
- Moisture protection materials for sensitive soils
- Permanent markers, waterproof labels, and box tags
- Sample bags for disturbed samples and jars for moisture tests
Good logging support tools
- Field log sheets or digital logging device
- Camera for borehole and sample photos with depth markers visible
- GPS or site reference notes for borehole location confirmation
Shelby tubes and undisturbed sampling gear
Shelby tubes are used when undisturbed samples matter, such as in cohesive soils where strength and compressibility testing is needed.
Shelby tube essentials
- Shelby tubes in correct sizes, clean and undamaged
- Thin wall cutting edge in good condition
- Extrusion equipment or safe removal tools
- End caps, wax or sealant, and protective sleeves
- Cooler boxes or safe storage to reduce heat exposure
Handling rules that protect the sample
- Mark top and bottom immediately
- Avoid vibration and rough transport
- Seal quickly to prevent moisture loss
Undisturbed sampling is sensitive. If you treat it casually, the lab results will not reflect site reality.
Consumables and maintenance items that prevent delays
These are the quiet items that save the day when conditions change.
Keep these on every investigation job
- Spare bits, cutting shoes, and core catchers
- Thread grease, cleaning brushes, and replacement seals
- Extra hoses, clamps, and basic hydraulic fittings
- Backup batteries and chargers for field devices
- First aid kit and PPE spares for the crew
A quick packing checklist before mobilization
Use this short list to avoid last minute gaps
- Confirm the scope: SPT, sampling, groundwater, or undisturbed tests
- Match samplers and tubes to soil type and expected depths
- Check all measuring and labeling tools are ready
- Verify rig stability and safety barriers are planned
- Pack spare consumables and a basic repair kit
Conclusion
A successful soil investigation in the UAE is built on preparation, not improvisation. When your geotechnical drilling equipment is complete and matched to the scope, your team works faster and produces cleaner, more defensible results. Combine that with disciplined use of drilling rig tools and equipment, and every test from SPT to Shelby tube sampling becomes more consistent and easier to trust.
