Frank Walsh Drilling

Welcome to the Frank Walsh Drilling website

With more than 80 years experience in the drilling industry throughout Australia ensure you of first class service and expertise.

Specialising in deep large diameter air or mud water drilling and de-watering programs

Custom built rigs coupled to high capacity compressors and boosters

Unique daily costed log sheet system

Impeccable safety record

Completely self-contained camp

Established in 1928 by the late Frank Walsh who commenced business with a single cable rig, the company now employs the very latest rotary percussion drilling equipment and high capacity compressors with expertise in Water Drilling in the 'Hard Rock' conditions found in the Adelaide Hills.

With experience gained in the drilling industry and their own development of specialised equipment, the company have been engaged by various government departments and mining companies to carry our specialised precision drilling operations.

 UNDER GROUND WATER

In simple terms, under ground water is described as water occurring at various depths below the surface. Although there are different types of under ground water, the most common is derived from rainfall and is constantly being recharged, dependant on rainfall within the area. The underground areas where water is found are known as aquifers.

Although there are enormous sources of under ground water, its quality varies very greatly. This is usually judged on its degree of salinity (or salt content, see tables on page 16) and ranges from "fresh water of 100 milligrams per litre (mg/l or less to brines of 300,000 mg/l or more). The quality or volume of flow which can be expected from a bore greatly depends on the type of material and its porosity or ability to not only contain water but also to yield it. For instance, clay has high porosity but a very low yield rate. Generally in the Mount Lofty Ranges area, water is contained within the fractures of hard rock (see illustration page 7), and usually the water is of good quality. Due to the high rainfall within this area the recharge rate is also very good, ensuring permanence of supply. However, in some isolated instances, an initial good supply of water is found, but the supply lacks permanence.

This situation can usually be detected by having the well pump tested. The company takes regular samples of materials and water during the course of drilling which can give indications of quantity and quality of water.