Surface Drill Rigs

The three main types are surface drilling rigs, underground drilling rigs, and portable (mobile) drilling rigs. Each type is selected based on jobsite space, required depth, ground conditions, and how the rig must be transported and operated.

Surface drilling is drilling performed from ground level in open areas, such as mining sites, quarries, construction sites, and water-well locations. Holes are drilled for exploration, blasting, dewatering, anchoring, or well construction. Higher mobility and faster setup are usually expected, because access is less restricted than underground work.

Drill rig cost varies widely and is mainly affected by rig type, depth capacity, power system, automation level, and included tooling.

Site setup and leveling (rig positioning and safety checks)

Tooling installation (rod, bit, barrel/hammer setup)

Spudding / collaring (starting the hole accurately)

Drilling and feeding (rotation + thrust, rate control)

Circulation / flushing (mud, air, or water to remove cuttings)

Rod handling (adding/removing rods, make-up/break-out)

Pull-out and shutdown (retrieve tools, secure the rig, basic maintenance)