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Tough Ground Solutions
Hervey Bay Cable Tool Drilling
When drilling in challenging ground conditions, sometimes modern rotary rigs just aren’t the right fit. Cable tool drilling—also known as percussion drilling—is a time-tested method that’s ideal for hard rock and variable soil layers. Cheyenne Drilling offers cable tool drilling across Hervey Bay, delivering dependable borehole construction in locations where other methods may struggle or be cost-prohibitive.
This technique involves repeatedly lifting and dropping a heavy bit to chip away rock and compacted material. It’s slower than rotary drilling, but it’s incredibly effective in tough terrain, and it requires minimal water, making it a smart choice for remote or water-scarce locations. With over 16 years of drilling experience and a strong focus on reliability, Cheyenne Drilling provides this traditional method using modern safety standards and equipment.
Call Cheyenne Drilling on 0447 280 143 to find out if cable tool drilling is the right solution for your site.
Ideal for Rock
Low Water Use
Rural Property Ready
Reliable Ground Penetration
Trusted Where Others Fail
Cable tool drilling has been around for more than a century, and it's still in use today for good reason. It works exceptionally well in regions like Hervey Bay where conditions may vary between clay, gravel, and hard stone. The method is precise, allowing drillers to closely monitor what’s coming out of the hole, which is useful for assessing aquifer depth or soil conditions in real time.
Because cable tool rigs don’t rely on high-pressure fluids to clear material, there’s less chance of disturbing the surrounding formation. This can reduce the risk of borehole collapse in unstable ground and allows for more controlled casing installation. It's also particularly useful for smaller-scale or off-grid applications where water for flushing isn’t available. If time isn’t your primary constraint and you're working with difficult geology, this method offers durable, cost-effective results.
FAQ
Everything You Need To Know
What is cable tool drilling and how does it work?
Cable tool drilling is a traditional method that uses a heavy bit attached to a cable, which is repeatedly raised and dropped to break through soil and rock. The loose material is removed using a bailer, and the process continues until the required depth is reached. It’s a slower method than rotary drilling but excels in tough ground where precision and lower water usage are priorities.
Is cable tool drilling better than rotary drilling?
It depends on the application. Cable tool drilling is often better in hard rock or when drilling in areas with limited access to water, since it doesn’t rely on mud or fluid circulation. It’s also valued for its simplicity and the detailed control it gives over borehole development. Rotary drilling, on the other hand, is typically faster and better suited to softer soils and larger-scale projects with time constraints.
How deep can cable tool drilling go?
Cable tool drilling can reach depths of several hundred metres, although most domestic and stock bores are much shallower. The depth achieved depends on equipment size, geological conditions, and bore purpose. It’s highly effective for reaching deep aquifers, particularly in areas with variable rock formations or fractured zones that require a slower, more deliberate approach.



