Geothermal/Environmental Site Investigation Services

Effective geologic and thermal investigation controls project costs, improves system performance and reduces construction complications.

Cost efficient Groundsource Heat Exchanger (GHX) installation and dependable HVAC operation are dependent on design precision and a comprehensive geothermal site investigation.  By performing site investigations in accordance with the Unified Soil Classification System (ASTM D2488), we can minimize unforeseen conditions and help determine the best course for mitigating risk.  

The cost of improper site characterization and associated project risks can be significant.  We can help control these risks by specifying the appropriate test boring work plan, under the supervision of our professional geologists.  Why is this important to you?

• Construction bids are based on data provided in the construction documents.  Case law in many states supports the contractor’s recovery of additional fees in cases where encountered drilling conditions are different than that published.  Through professional documentation of drilling conditions in accordance with ASTM D2488, obtained from multiple borings, a standard of care can be created which mitigates the risk of costly change orders later in the project.
• Soil or groundwater contamination encountered during construction introduces the possibility for potentially devastating remediation requirements.  Depending on the nature of the contamination, the entire project may be derailed, resulting in HVAC system redesign and/or costly remediation.  Discovering the presence of contamination while characterizing the site is the best way to manage such risks. 

Protect your reputation, demand professional thermal response testing.  Precise HVAC design requires a testing protocol which exceeds current industry standards.  We go beyond conventional thermal conductivity testing to provide you with the comprehensive data needed to minimize GHX design guesswork, improve cost efficiency, and reduce risk of HVAC system failure.  Our experienced technicians perform thermal response testing in accordance with stringent standards, and our analysis services are performed and certified by professional engineers and geologists.  The viability of the entire HVAC system is dependent on the data gathered during thermal response testing; don’t settle for anything less than a comprehensive, documented approach performed and certified by professionals.     

Braun Intertec Geothermal Site Investigation Services:

• Test boring utilizing mud/air rotary, rotosonic coring, air hammer and directional boring
• Professional geologic soil classification in accordance with ASTM D2488
• Thermal conductivity testing, ground temperature profiling, borehole thermal resistance testing
• Professional calculation of site heat rejection and heat absorption capacity
• Environmental soil screening, groundwater testing, remediation work plan consulting
• Geologic bedrock mapping facilitating dependable directional bore system planning