Ground investigations

We offer a variety of services to support ground investigation projects. Our experienced and qualified team are highly trained to NVQ/SVQ level and take part in regular first aid, manual handling and Cable Avoidance Tool (CAT) training.

Our services include:

  • Cable percussive drilling
  • Hydraulic percussive drilling
  • Window sampling
  • Dynamic Probing
  • Concrete coring
  • Rotary drilling
  • Static Cone Penetration Tests
  • Trial pitting
  • Hand excavation to locate building foundations
  • Groundwater & gas monitoring
Site Investigation

What we do

Cable percussive drilling, also known as shell and auger drilling, is a well-established and widely used method for ground investigation and geotechnical analysis in the UK. It’s used across the UK to bore holes into the ground. This method involves lifting and dropping a heavy cutting tool into the borehole to penetrate soil and rock layers. It is highly effective for investigating subsurface conditions, obtaining soil samples, and installing monitoring wells. Cable percussive drilling is suitable for a wide range of soil types and ground conditions, including clay, sand, gravel, and soft rock and capable of drilling to significant depths and varying diameters, making it ideal for diverse geotechnical applications by providing high-quality undisturbed samples for accurate soil analysis and testing.

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CPT is a widely recognised method for evaluating soil properties and determining the geotechnical parameters essential for construction and civil engineering projects. We provide expert CPT services across Scotland and the Northeast of England, delivering accurate and reliable data for your geotechnical needs. It involves pushing a cone-shaped penetrometer into the ground at a constant rate to measure the resistance of soil layers. This test provides continuous data on soil stratigraphy, identifying various soil properties such as density, strength, and friction.

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Trai pitting is a fundamental method used for geotechnical site investigations and environmental assessments. We offer professional trial pitting services to provide you with essential insights into ground conditions to support your construction and engineering projects. Trial pitting involves the excavation of shallow, open pits to visually inspect and sample subsurface soils. This method is particularly useful for assessing near-surface soil conditions, identifying soil stratification, and collecting samples for laboratory testing.

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Excellent reputation
Aitken provides geotechnical, mineral and environmental investigations.
Laboratory analysis
Specialist soil sampling service & UKAS accredited laboratory analysis.
Service areas
Aitken Laboratories operates across Scotland and the North of England.
Experienced team
Our business has been operating for over 50 years, serving a range of clients.

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Independent and unbiased: as an independent firm, we provide objective and reliable results.

Experienced team: our team consists of seasoned professionals with extensive industry experience.

Commitment to quality: we adhere to the highest standards of quality and safety in all our operations, and we implement rigorous quality control measures to ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability.

Client-focused approach: we work closely with our clients to understand their specific project needs and provide tailored solutions.

Comprehensive reporting: our detailed reports offer clear, actionable insights to support your project planning and decision-making.

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Need bespoke support?

Curious about how our processes and expertise can benefit your project? Contact us today to learn more about our geotechnical services and how we can support your needs with precision and professionalism.
  • Independent and unbiased
  • Experienced team
  • Commitment to quality
  • Client-focused approach
  • Comprehensive reporting

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