Elevator Shaft Clean-Out & Full-Length Casing Installation
A client contacted Howell Drilling, Inc. to perform a clean-out of an existing 22-foot elevator hole to allow for a hydraulic jack replacement. What was initially expected to be a routine clean-out quickly evolved into a technically challenging project requiring strategic problem-solving and field expertise.
Unexpected Subsurface Conditions
Approximately 6 feet below grade, our crew encountered a 10-foot section of 24-inch diameter casing buried within the shaft. This discovery left the remaining lower portion of the hole—approximately 6 feet—compromised and unstable.
In addition to the obstruction, the subsurface conditions consisted of:
- Saturated sand
- Loose, mushy clay
- Unstable, collapsing material
These conditions significantly increased the complexity of maintaining hole integrity to the required 22-foot depth.
Engineered Field Solution
To safely advance the hole to the requested depth, our crew utilized a drilling slurry mixture combined with additional water to create sufficient head pressure and stabilize the surrounding soils during excavation.
Recognizing the risk of collapse and the importance of providing a secure, open shaft for jack installation, our team implemented a permanent stabilization solution:
- The entire 22-foot depth was cased with 16-inch diameter steel casing
- Casing was installed to maintain structural integrity and ensure safe jack placement
- Continuous monitoring was performed to maintain hole stability throughout the process
Delivering Solutions Where Others Can’t
This project exemplifies our ability to adapt to complex site constraints, engineer creative access solutions, and execute drilling operations safely and efficiently under demanding conditions.
At Howell Drilling, we take pride in delivering results that not only meet project specifications but also provide our clients with confidence in the long-term safety and stability of their job sites.
