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Our Projects

At KF Drilling, every project tells a story of precision, innovation, and problem-solving. From urban sites with restricted access to large-scale ground investigations, we thrive on challenges others might avoid. Our portfolio showcases a diverse range of successful projects across the UK — each delivered with the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and technical expertise.

Explore how our specialist drilling solutions have helped clients achieve their goals, even in the most complex environments. Whether it’s boreholes for site investigation, geotechnical testing, or monitoring installations, KF Drilling consistently delivers results that inspire confidence.

Confined Access Borehole Investigation in Tower Hamlets, London

Project Overview

KF Drilling was commissioned to undertake an investigative borehole in one of the most challenging environments imaginable — a narrow alleyway adjacent to a traveller site in Tower Hamlets, London. The project demanded precision, discretion, and innovative problem-solving from start to finish.

Challenges

Space constraints were the primary obstacle. With virtually no working room for equipment setup, the task initially seemed like “squeezing a square peg into a round hole.” Traditional rig deployment methods were impossible, requiring our team to completely rethink the setup process.

Our Solution

  • Custom Engineering: We fabricated a shortened leg brace to ensure the rig could be stabilised safely in such a confined area.

  • Rig Modification: One wheel hub was removed, and the rig was maneuvered using its own winch system — literally dragging it backwards into position.

  • Efficient Execution: Once in place, we successfully raised the mast and drilled to a depth of 47 metres, conducting full in-situ testing and sampling. A monitoring gas and water pipe was installed and fully grouted to specification.


Community Relations

Operating next to sensitive neighbours required diplomacy and clear communication at every stage. Our team maintained constant engagement to minimise disruption and defuse tensions, ensuring the project progressed without incident.

Outcome

All works were completed safely, on schedule, and to the client’s full satisfaction, earning praise for our ingenuity and professionalism in overcoming significant logistical and interpersonal challenges.

Deep Borehole Installation via Lift Shaft – South London

Project Overview

KF Drilling was tasked with a complex challenge: to install a full-size drilling rig at the base of an existing building by lowering it down an elevator shaft. The objective was to drill a deep investigative borehole for pile design, but the lift shaft’s limited dimensions made a standard rig lift impossible.

Challenges

  • Restricted access through a narrow lift shaft

  • Full rig dimensions exceeded the shaft size

  • Client’s concern about significant additional costs for a modular rig solution


Our Solution
Rather than resort to a costly modular rig, we proposed a more innovative and cost-effective approach:

  • Rig Disassembly: We carefully dismantled the rig by separating the main frame from the base unit.

  • Specialist Handling: Both components were safely craned down the lift shaft in stages.

  • Reassembly Below Ground: The rig was reconnected and secured at basement level, ensuring full functionality.

Outcome

The borehole drilling was completed successfully, saving the client significant costs and achieving what initially seemed impossible. The client was delighted with the solution, which combined ingenuity, precision engineering, and a commitment to delivering value.

Discreet Basement Investigation Behind Claridge’s Restaurant, London

Project Overview

KF Drilling was commissioned to drill an investigative borehole for a proposed basement development in one of London’s most prestigious locations — directly behind the iconic Claridge’s restaurant. This required absolute discretion, minimal disruption, and the highest respect for the property and its occupants.

Challenges

  • Extremely tight access through a domestic property

  • Need for complete protection of all interior surfaces

  • Sensitive environment requiring noise and dust control

  • Zero tolerance for disruption to a world-famous hospitality venue


Our Solution

  • Modular Rig Deployment: A compact modular rig was carried through a domestic doorway, navigated through the property, and positioned in the rear courtyard.

  • Surface Protection: All internal routes and the immediate work area were safeguarded with plastic sheeting and plywood boards to prevent any damage.

  • Clean Operation: Excess spoil was fully contained, bagged, and removed from the site.


Outcome

A 25-metre investigative borehole was successfully drilled without complaint, incident, or disruption to Claridge’s daily operations. Once complete, the property was fully cleaned and reinstated to its original condition. Even with Mr Gordon Ramsay working in the kitchen nearby, the process remained calm, professional, and seamless.