Drilling process goes electric

HS2 is using what is believed to be the “first of a kind” high-capacity electric drilling rig, in a bid to cut carbon in construction.

The 100-tonne Germanmade Bauer BG33 drilling rig is claimed to reduce noise by 50% and have the same power as a traditional diesel-powered equivalent. Both types are being tested to see which can best bore 1.2-metre (4ft) diameter piles to a depth of 16 metres (52ft).

The work is taking place at an undisclosed HS2 construction site in Warwickshire.