Construction Process.
Subterra brings an exacting approach to construction. From start to finish, we leverage our cutting-edge technology and teams to ensure each stage is transparent and has defined objectives. The process has been refined with such precision that we can take it step by step.
1. Feasibility and Design
- Borehole test is conducted prior to the final geothermal exchange design to determine the drilling price and complete the preliminary geoexchange system design.
- Thermal conductivity test is also completed.
- The geothermal exchange design is completed by a team of experts including prequalified engineering firms and Subterra engineers.
2. Drilling
- No impact to critical path.
- Drilling-from-grade technology enables excavation to proceed normally.
- Drilling platforms not required for rigs.
3. Underground Piping
- Excavation, backfilling, and compaction to connect ground loops with mechanical room.
- Begins once columns and foundation are complete.
4. Mechanical Room
- Underground piping is connected to mechanical manifolds in mechanical room.
- System is flushed, filled and commissioned.
5. Operation & Maintenance
- Controls installed and programmed to collect data and optimize the system.
- Monitor leaks and overheating/undercooling.
Services.
As one of North America’s largest, most experienced drilling fleets and team of geothermal exchange experts, Subterra delivers custom geothermal exchange systems optimized to specific site requirements.
Geothermal Drilling
Complete drilling services for vertical geothermal exchange borehole drilling at depths up to and beyond 1,000’. At no cost and no risk.
Equipment.
Subterra is proud to run North America’s largest and most diverse drilling fleet of +60 rigs, full drill operations staffing and capability to install +$10m in Geothermal Exchange Systems per month.
Atlas Copco TH60
- All-purpose rig
- Powerful enough to handle diameter hollow stem augers
- Versatile drill on smaller augers, odex (up to 4-8’), air rotary and core (HQ, HQ3 and NQ) projects
- Minimal ground disturbance
- High performance movement and excellent traction
- Maximum Torque up to 21,500-ft-lb
Sonic
- Reach up to 1,000 ft. in total drilling depth
- Utilizes high frequency, rotary vibratory drill to fluidize over burden without use of drilling fluids
- Ability to sample without use of air, water, or mud
Foremost DR 24
- Reach up to 1,000 ft. in total drilling depth
- Simultaneously drill and install casing up to 400 ft.
- Will set up to 24 inch diameter casing
- Feature a unique lower rotary drive that is used to advance steel casing through unconsolidated overburden
Diedrich D-120
- All-purpose rig
- Powerful enough to handle diameter hollow stem augers
- Versatile drill on smaller augers, odex (up to 4-8’), air rotary and core (HQ, HQ3 and NQ) projects
- Minimal ground disturbance
- High performance movement and excellent traction
- Maximum Torque up to 21,500-ft-lb
