The most common types are:

• SPT Drilling (Standard Penetration Test), amplamente usada para edificações;

• Rotary drilling, indicada para terrenos rochosos;

• Mixed drilling, quando há solos e rochas;

• Geophysical surveys, utilizadas para investigações não destrutivas. Cada método é escolhido conforme o tipo de obra e as características do terreno.

Drilling is mandatory in virtually all engineering projects, especially in buildings, industrial structures, special foundations, transmission lines and infrastructure. In addition, it is required by technical standards and frequently requested by licensing agencies and insurers.

The SPT test measures soil resistance to penetration, providing the index N-SPT, que indica a compacidade ou consistência do solo. Esses dados são essenciais para o dimensionamento das fundações e avaliação da capacidade de carga do terreno.

Geotechnical drilling involves direct soil perforation, sample collection and physical tests. Geophysical investigation uses indirect methods, such as electrical resistivity, to map the subsoil without drilling. Often, both techniques are complementary.

Yes. A well-executed geotechnical investigation significantly reduces risks such as excessive settlements, foundation failures, slope instabilities and unexpected costs during construction.

Hiring is generally done by the property owner or person responsible for the construction, but interpretation of results must be performed by a licensed civil or geotechnical engineer, garantindo que os dados sejam corretamente aplicados ao projeto.

Geotechnics is essential for projects such as highways, dams, transmission towers, bridges and deep foundations. It ensures the stability, durability and safety of structures, considering soil behavior over time.