ASTM D5872/D5872M-18

Standard Guide for Use of Casing Advancement Drilling Methods for Geoenvironmental Exploration and Installation of Subsurface Water Quality Monitoring Devices

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 Casing advancement may be used in support of geoenvironmental exploration and for installation of subsurface water-quality monitoring devices in both unconsolidated and consolidated sediment. Casing advancement systems and procedures used for geoenvironmental exploration and instrumentation installations consist of direct air-rotary drilling utilizing conventional rotary bits or a down-the-hole hammer drill with under reaming capability, in combination with a drill through casing driver.
Note 1: Direct air-rotary drilling uses pressured air for circulation of drill cuttings. In some instances, water or foam additives, or both, may be injected into the air stream to improve cuttings-lifting capacity and cuttings return. The use of air under high pressures may cause fracturing of the formation materials or extreme erosion of the borehole, if drilling pressures and techniques are not carefully maintained and monitored. If borehole damage becomes apparent, consideration to other drilling method(s) should be given.  
4.1.1 Casing advancement methods allow for installation of subsurface water quality monitoring devices and collection of water quality samples at depth(s) during drilling.  
4.1.2 Other advantages of casing advancement drilling methods include: the capability of drilling without the introduction of drilling fluid(s) to the subsurface; maintenance of hole stability for sampling purposes and monitor-well installation/construction in poorly-indurated to unconsolidated materials.  
4.1.3 The user of casing advancement drilling for geoenvironmental exploration and monitoring device installations should be cognizant of both the physical (temperature and airborne particles) and chemical (compressor lubricants and fluid additives) qualities of compressed air that may be used as the circulating medium.  
4.2 The application of casing advancement drilling to geoenvironmental exploration may involve soil or rock sampling, or in situ soil, rock, or pore-fluid ...
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers how casing advancement drilling and sampling procedures may be used for geoenvironmental exploration and installation of subsurface water quality monitoring devices.  
1.2 Different methods exist to advance casing for geoenvironmental exploration. Selection of a particular method should be made on the basis of geologic conditions at the site. This guide does not include procedures for wireline rotary casing advancer systems which are addressed in Guide D5786.  
1.3 Casing advancement drilling methods for geoenvironmental exploration and monitoring-device installations will often involve safety planning, administration, and documentation. This guide does not purport to specifically address exploration and site safety.  
1.4 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.6 This guide offers an organized collection of information or a series of options and does not recommend a specific course of action. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this guide may be applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a project's many unique aspects. The word...

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-May-2018
• ICS: 13.060.10 - Water of natural resources
• Technical Committee: D18 - Soil and Rock
• Drafting Committee: D18.21 - Groundwater and Vadose Zone Investigations

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM D5872/D5872M-13 - Standard Guide for Use of Casing Advancement Drilling Methods for Geoenvironmental Exploration and Installation of Subsurface Water-Quality Monitoring Devices
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2018
• Refers: ASTM D3740-23 - Standard Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as Used in Engineering Design and Construction
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023
• Refers: ASTM D5088-20 - Standard Practice for Decontamination of Field Equipment Used at Waste Sites
• Effective Date: 01-May-2020
• Refers: ASTM D3740-19 - Standard Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as Used in Engineering Design and Construction
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2019
• Refers: ASTM D5782-18 - Standard Guide for Use of Direct Air-Rotary Drilling for Geoenvironmental Exploration and the Installation of Subsurface Water-Quality Monitoring Devices
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2018
• Refers: ASTM D5786-17 - Standard Practice for (Field Procedure) for Constant Drawdown Tests in Flowing Wells for Determining Hydraulic Properties of Aquifer Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2017
• Refers: ASTM D5088-15a - Standard Practice for Decontamination of Field Equipment Used at Waste Sites
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2015
• Refers: ASTM D5088-15 - Standard Practice for Decontamination of Field Equipment Used at Waste Sites
• Effective Date: 15-Jan-2015
• Refers: ASTM D653-14 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2014
• Refers: ASTM D5782-95(2012) - Standard Guide for Use of Direct Air-Rotary Drilling for Geoenvironmental Exploration and the Installation of Subsurface Water-Quality Monitoring Devices
• Effective Date: 15-Sep-2012
• Refers: ASTM D5786-95(2012) - Standard Practice for (Field Procedure) for Constant Drawdown Tests in Flowing Wells for Determining Hydraulic Properties of Aquifer Systems
• Effective Date: 01-May-2012
• Refers: ASTM D3740-12a - Standard Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as Used in Engineering Design and Construction
• Effective Date: 01-May-2012
• Refers: ASTM D3740-12 - Standard Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as Used in Engineering Design and Construction
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2012
• Refers: ASTM D653-11 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2011
• Refers: ASTM D3740-11 - Standard Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as Used in Engineering Design and Construction
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2011

Overview

ASTM D5872/D5872M-18 is an internationally recognized standard guide from ASTM International. It provides guidance on the use of casing advancement drilling methods for geoenvironmental exploration and the installation of subsurface water quality monitoring devices. This standard outlines best practices for applying casing advancement drilling in various geological conditions, ensuring effective environmental site investigations and successful groundwater monitoring.

Key Topics

• Casing Advancement Drilling: This method supports geoenvironmental exploration and enables installation of water quality monitoring devices in both unconsolidated and consolidated sediments.
• Direct Air-Rotary Drilling: Utilizes air to circulate cuttings, with optional additives like water or foam to optimize drilling efficiency. Proper pressure management is crucial to avoid borehole damage.
• Drilling Without Fluids: Casing advancement allows for drilling without introducing extra drilling fluids to the subsurface, minimizing potential contamination.
• Borehole Stability: This technique maintains hole integrity in poorly-indurated or unconsolidated materials, critical for quality sampling and reliable well installation.
• Sampling and Testing: Enables collection of undisturbed soil, rock, and water quality samples at multiple depths during the drilling process.
• Monitoring Device Installation: Provides guidelines for installing screened intake devices and riser pipes, using filter packs, isolation seals, and low-permeability backfills to prevent cross-contamination.
• Air Quality Considerations: Emphasizes the importance of monitoring the physical and chemical properties of compressed air used in drilling, including temperature, airborne particles, compressor lubricants, and fluid additives.

Applications

• Environmental Site Assessment: Used for subsurface exploration in environmental investigations, including site characterization for contamination and groundwater resource evaluation.
• Groundwater Monitoring Well Installation: Guides the installation of monitoring wells for water quality assessment, regulatory compliance, and ongoing environmental monitoring.
• Soil and Rock Sampling: Facilitates in situ and core sampling for geochemical, geotechnical, and hydrogeological studies.
• Construction and Remediation Projects: Supports environmental due diligence for infrastructure, brownfields redevelopment, landfill monitoring, and remediation system installation.
• Vadose and Saturated Zone Studies: Suitable for instrumentation in both unsaturated and saturated subsurface zones.
• Compliance and Reporting: Establishes reporting practices for documenting drilling methods, additives, sampling regimes, and installation procedures to meet regulatory and project-specific requirements.

Related Standards

• ASTM D5782: Guide for Direct Air-Rotary Drilling for Geoenvironmental Exploration and Installation of Subsurface Water Quality Monitoring Devices.
• ASTM D5092: Practice for Design and Installation of Groundwater Monitoring Wells.
• ASTM D5088: Practice for Decontamination of Field Equipment Used at Waste Sites.
• ASTM D5521: Guide for Development of Groundwater Monitoring Wells in Granular Aquifers.
• ASTM D5434: Guide for Field Logging of Subsurface Explorations of Soil and Rock.
• ASTM D653: Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids.

Practical Value

Following ASTM D5872/D5872M-18 helps organizations:

• Achieve reliable, contamination-free groundwater monitoring.
• Document and demonstrate conformance with industry best practices during site investigations.
• Select appropriate drilling methods based on specific geologic and environmental site conditions.
• Ensure adherence to safety, quality, and regulatory standards throughout the drilling and monitoring process.

ASTM D5872/D5872M-18 is an essential reference for environmental consultants, drillers, engineers, and project managers looking to implement effective geoenvironmental exploration and water quality monitoring solutions.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: D5872/D5872M − 18
Standard Guide for
Use of Casing Advancement Drilling Methods for
Geoenvironmental Exploration and Installation of
Subsurface Water Quality Monitoring Devices
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D5872/D5872M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the
year of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last
reapproval. A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope* a given professional service must be judged, nor should this
document be applied without consideration of a project’s many
1.1 This guide covers how casing advancement drilling and
unique aspects. The word “Standard” in the title of this
sampling procedures may be used for geoenvironmental explo-
document means only that the document has been approved
ration and installation of subsurface water quality monitoring
through the ASTM consensus process.
devices.
1.7 This international standard was developed in accor-
1.2 Different methods exist to advance casing for geoenvi-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
ronmental exploration. Selection of a particular method should
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
be made on the basis of geologic conditions at the site. This
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
guide does not include procedures for wireline rotary casing
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
advancer systems which are addressed in Guide D5786.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
1.3 Casing advancement drilling methods for geoenviron-
mental exploration and monitoring-device installations will
2. Referenced Documents
often involve safety planning, administration, and documenta- 2
2.1 ASTM Standards:
tion. This guide does not purport to specifically address
D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained
exploration and site safety.
Fluids
1.4 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units
D2113 Practice for Rock Core Drilling and Sampling of
are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in Rock for Site Exploration
each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each
D3740 Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies
system shall be used independently of the other. Combining
Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as
values from the two systems may result in non-conformance Used in Engineering Design and Construction
with the standard.
D4428/D4428M Test Methods for Crosshole Seismic Test-
ing
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
D5088 Practice for Decontamination of Field Equipment
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
Used at Waste Sites
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
D5092 Practice for Design and Installation of Groundwater
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
Monitoring Wells
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
D5434 Guide for Field Logging of Subsurface Explorations
1.6 This guide offers an organized collection of information
of Soil and Rock
or a series of options and does not recommend a specific
D5521 Guide for Development of Groundwater Monitoring
course of action. This document cannot replace education or
Wells in Granular Aquifers
experienceandshouldbeusedinconjunctionwithprofessional
D5782 Guide for Use of Direct Air-Rotary Drilling for
judgment. Not all aspects of this guide may be applicable in all
Geoenvironmental Exploration and the Installation of
circumstances. This ASTM standard is not intended to repre-
Subsurface Water-Quality Monitoring Devices
sent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of
D5786 Practice for (Field Procedure) for Constant Draw-
down Tests in Flowing Wells for Determining Hydraulic
This guide is under the jurisdiction ofASTM Committee D18 on Soil and Rock
and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.21 on Groundwater and
Vadose Zone Investigations. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
CurrenteditionapprovedJune1,2018.PublishedJuly2018.Originallyapproved contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
in 1995. Last previous edition approved in 2013 as D5872 – 13. DOI: 10.1520/ Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
D5872_D5872M-18. the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D5872/D5872M − 18
Properties of Aquifer Systems hydrogeologic units penetrated by the borehole (see Practice
D5092).Apiezometer is primarily a device used for measuring
3. Terminology subsurface hydraulic heads, the conversion of a piezometer to
a water quality monitoring device should be made only after
3.1 Definitions:
consideration of the overall quality and integrity of the
3.1.1 For definitions of general terms used within this
installation to include the quality of materials that will contact
standard, refer to Terminology D653.
sampled water or gas. Both water quality monitoring devices
3.1.2 cleanout depth—thedepthtowhichtheendofthedrill
and piezometers should have adequate casing seals, annular
string (bit or core barrel cutting end) has reached after an
isolation seals, and backfills to deter communication of con-
interval of cutting. The cleanout depth (or drilled depth as it is
taminants between hydrogeologic units.
referred to after cleaning out of any sloughed material in the
bottom of the borehole) is usually recorded to the nearest 30
NOTE 2—The quality of the result produced by this standard is
mm [0.1 ft]. dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the
suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the
criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent
4. Significance and Use
and objective testing/sampling/evaluation/and the like. Users of this
standard are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in
4.1 Casing advancement may be used in support of geoen-
itself assure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors;
vironmental exploration and for installation of subsurface
Practice D3740 provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.
water-quality monitoring devices in both unconsolidated and
consolidated sediment. Casing advancement systems and pro-
5. Apparatus
cedures used for geoenvironmental exploration and instrumen-
5.1 Casing advancement systems and procedures used for
tation installations consist of direct air-rotary drilling utilizing
geoenvironmental exploration and instrumentation installa-
conventional rotary bits or a down-the-hole hammer drill with
tions include: direct air-rotary in combination with a drill
under reaming capability, in combination with a drill through
through casing driver, and conventional rotary bits or down-
casing driver.
the-hole hammer drill with or without under reaming capabil-
NOTE 1—Direct air-rotary drilling uses pressured air for circulation of
ity. Each of these methods requires a specific type of drill rig
drill cuttings. In some instances, water or foam additives, or both, may be
and tools.
injected into the air stream to improve cuttings-lifting capacity and
cuttings return. The use of air under high pressures may cause fracturing
NOTE 3—In NorthAmerica, the sizes of casings bits, drill rods and core
of the formation materials or extreme erosion of the borehole, if drilling
barrels are standardized by American Petroleum Institute (API) (1) and
pressures and techniques are not carefully maintained and monitored. If
the Diamond Core Drill Manufacturers Association (DCDMA). Refer to
borehole damage becomes apparent, consideration to other drilling meth-
the DCDMATechnical Manual (2) and to published materials of API for
od(s) should be given.
available sizes and capacities of drilling tools equipment.
4.1.1 Casing advancement methods allow for installation of
5.1.1 Direct air-rotary drill rigs equipped with drill through
subsurface water quality monitoring devices and collection of
casing drivers have a mast-mounted, percussion driver that is
water quality samples at depth(s) during drilling.
used to set casing while simultaneously utilizing a top-head
4.1.2 Other advantages of casing advancement drilling
rotary drive unit.The drill string is generally advanced with bit
methods include: the capability of drilling without the intro-
being slightly ahead of the casing. Fig. 1 shows the various
duction of drilling fluid(s) to the subsurface; maintenance of
components of the drill through casing driver system. Other
hole stability for sampling purposes and monitor-well
mechanical components include casings, drill rods, drill bits,
installation/construction in poorly-indurated to unconsolidated
air compressors, pressure lines, swivels, dust collectors, and
materials.
air-cleaning device (cyclone separator).
4.1.3 The user of casing advancement drilling for geoenvi-
5.1.1.1 Mast-Mounted Casing Driver, using a piston acti-
ronmental exploration and monitoring device installations
vated by air pressure to create driving force. Casing drivers are
should be cognizant of both the physical (temperature and
devisedtoprincipallydrivecasingdownwhiledrillingbutthey
airborne particles) and chemical (compressor lubricants and
canalsobeusedtodrivethecasingupwardforcasingremoval.
fluid additives) qualities of compressed air that may be used as
5.1.1.2 Standard Casings,drivenwiththecasingdriver.The
the circulating medium.
bottom of the casing is equipped with a forged or cast alloy
drive shoe. The top of the casing fits into the casing driver by
4.2 The application of casing advancement drilling to
meansofananvil.Inhardgeologicformations,casingsmaybe
geoenvironmental exploration may involve soil or rock
welded at connections for added stability. The casing size is
sampling, or in situ soil, rock, or pore-fluid testing. The user
usuallyselectedtoprovideadrillholeofsufficientdiameterfor
may install a monitoring device within the same borehole
the needed sampling or testing or for insertion of instrumen-
wherein sampling, in situ or pore-fluid testing, or coring was
tation device components such as the screened intake and filter
performed.
pack and installation devices such as a tremie pipe.
4.3 The subsurface water quality monitoring devices that
5.1.1.3 Other considerations for selection of casing size are
are addressed in this guide consist generally of a screened or
borehole depth and formation type. The casing size should
porous intake device and riser pipe(s) that are usually installed
with a filter pack to enhance the longevity of the intake unit,
and with isolation seals and low-permeability backfill to deter
The boldface numbers in parentheses refer to a list of references at the end of
the movement of fluids or infiltration of surface water between this standard.
D5872/D5872M − 18
of pipe-thread lubricants on chemical analyses of samples
should be considered and documented when using casing
advancement drilling. The same consideration and documen-
tation should be given to lubricants used with water swivels,
hoisting swivels, or other devices used near the drilling axis.
5.1.1.5 RotaryBit,attachedtothebottomofthedrillrodand
provides material-cutting capability. Core barrels may be used
to obtain sample cores and during this operation the casing can
be advanced up to the length of the core barrel. Numerous bit
types can be selected depending on the formation properties.
Some types successfully used include roller-cone rock bits and
dragbits.Inhardgeologicformations,down-the-holehammers
can be substituted for rotary drill bits. Bit selection can be
aided by review of referenced literature or consultation with
manufacturers, or both.
5.1.1.6 Perform coring of rock in accordance with Practice
D2113. Soil sampling or coring methods, some of which are
listed in 2.2, can also be used to obtain samples and advance
the hole. Simultaneously coring and advancing the casing with
the casing driver would normally be considered incompatible.
5.1.1.7 Direct-rotary bits have discharge ports that are in
close proximity with the bottom of the hole. When these are
used in loose cohesionless sediment, jetting or excessive
erosion of the test intervals could occur.
5.1.2 Casing advancement drill rigs may be equipped with
either standard or under reaming down-the-hole hammers.
Standard down-the-hole hammers can be used in unconsoli-
dated deposits to break up highly abrasive sediment, such as
cobbles and boulders. Under reaming down-the-hole hammers
operate by drilling and under reaming the drill hole using an
air-activated down-the-hole percussion hammer so that the
casing falls or can be pushed downward directly behind the
hammer bit. Cuttings are removed from the drill hole by air
FIG. 1 Casing Drivers can be Fitted to Top-Head Drive Rotary
exiting the down-the-hole hammer. In stable geologic
Rigs to Simultaneously Drill and Drive Casing
formations, such as within rock, casings may not be needed.
Down-the-hole hammers may also be used with direct air-
rotary drilling procedures discussed in Guide D5782.
allowforadequateannulusbetweenthecasingandthedrillrod
forupwarddischargeofcuttings.Also,considerationshouldbe 5.1.3 Down-the-Hole Hammer, is a pneumatic drill operated
made when difficult formations are expected to require tele- on the end of the drill rods. The bit at the end of the hammer
scoping from larger to smaller casing diameters. is constructed of alloy steel and tungsten-carbide inserts to
5.1.1.4 Drill Rods, used inside the casing for rotary air
provide cutting or chipping surfaces. The pneumatic hammer
drilling. The rods extend through the casing driver and are
impacts the rock surface while the drill pipe is slowly rotated.
connectedtoatop-headdrivemotorforrotationandtransferof
Rotation of the bit helps ensure even penetration and straight
rotational force from the drill rig to the bit or core barrel. Drill
holes in rock. Proper rotational speed is 10 to 30 rpm with
rod and casing are usually assembled as a unit and raised into
lower speeds used in harder rock. Down-the-hole hammers
position on the mast. Individual drill rods should be straight so
require air pressures ranging from 700 to 1400 kPa [100 to 200
2 3
they do not contribute to excessive vibrations or “whipping” of
lb/in. ] and volumes of 2.8 to 8.5 m /min [100 to 300 cfm].
the drill-rod column. All threaded connections should be in
5.2 Air Compressors, needed to operate the casing driver
good repair and not leak significantly at the internal air
and the down-the-hole hammer and to provide air to circulate
pressure needed for drilling. Drill rods should be made up
the drill cuttings out of the borehole.
securely by wrench tightening at the threaded joint(s) at all
5.2.1 Air Compressor and Filter(s), providing adequate air
times to prevent rod damage. Drill pipes usually require
without significant contamination, for removal of cuttings
lubricants on the threads to allow easy unthreading (breaking)
generated at the bit.Air requirements for casing drivers can be
of the connecting joints. Some lubricants have organic or
metallic constituents, or both, that could be interpreted as evaluated from manufacturers’ literature. Air requirements for
rotary drilling bits or down-the-hole hammers will depend
contaminants if detected in a sample. Various lubricants are
available that have components of known chemistry.The effect upon the drill rod and bit configuration, the characteristics of
D5872/D5872M − 18
the geology penetrated, the depth of drilling below groundwa- consider the prevalent wind direction relative to the exhaust
ter level, and the total depth of drilling. The flow-rate require- from the drill rig. Also, consider the location of the cyclone
mentsareusuallybasedonanannulusupflowvelocityofabout separator relative to the rig exhaust since air-quality monitor-
900 to 1200 m/min [about 3000 to 4000 ft/min] even though ing will be performed at the cyclone-separator discharge point.
upflow rates of less than 900 to 1200 m/min [about 3000 to
Establish and document a datum for measuring hole depth.
4000 ft/min] are often adequate for cuttings transport. Guid- This datum is normally the top of the surface casing or the
ance for design of air-pressure circulation systems can be
drilling deck. If the hole is to be later surveyed for elevation,
found in referenced literature. recordandreporttheheightofthedatumtothegroundsurface.
5.2.1.1 The quality of compressed air entering the borehole
6.1.1 Clean and decontaminate the drill rig, drill rods and
and the quality of air discharged from the borehole and
bits, and hoisting and sampling tools according to Practice
air-cleaning devices must be considered. If not adequately
D5088 prior to commencing drilling and sampling operations
filtered, the air produced by most oil-lubricated air compres-
and at periods during the drilling operation when deemed
sors can introduce some oil into the circulation system.
appropriate such as when the drill string is removed from the
High-efficiency, inline, air filters are usually needed to mini-
hole to permit intermittent sampling.
mize contamination of the borehole. Air-quality monitoring
NOTE 4—It is very important to check above the drilling rig for
may be needed and, if performed, results should be docu-
overhead obstructions or hazards, such as power lines, prior to lifting the
mented.
mast. In most cases, it is needed to perform a survey of underground and
5.2.2 Pressure Hose, conducting the air from the air com-
all other utilities prior to drilling to evaluate hazards.
pressor to the swivel.
6.2 Drilling is usually done as follows:
5.2.3 Swivel, directing the air to the drill-rod column.
6.2.1 Attach an initial assembly of a bit, often with a single
5.2.4 Discharge Hose, conducting air and cuttings from the
section of drill rod and casing, to the top-head drive unit.
drill-hole annulus to an air-cleaning device.
6.2.2 Activatetheaircompressor,causingcompressedairto
5.2.5 Air-Cleaning Device, generally called a cyclone
circulate through the system.
separator—separates cuttings from the air returning from the
drill hole via the discharge hose. A correctly sized cyclone 6.2.3 Drill through casing driver.
separator can remove practically all of the cuttings from the
6.2.3.1 Several drilling methods can be used with direct
return air. A small quantity of fine particles, however, are
air-rotary drill rigs equipped with drill through casing drivers:
usually discharged to the atmosphere with the “cleaned” air.
the drill bit and casing are advanced as a unit, in unconsoli-
Some air-cleaning devices consist of a cyclone separator alone.
datedmaterialsthecasingisdrivenfirstandthenthepluginthe
In certain cases, the cyclone separator can be combined with a
casing is drilled out, and the drill bit advances beyond the
HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter for removing dust
casing, and then is withdrawn into the casing and then the
particles that might be radioactive. In other special situations,
casing is driven. Air exiting the bit removes the cuttings
the cyclone separator may be used in conjunction with a
uphole. Separate cuttings from the return air with an air-
charcoal-filteringarrangementforremovaloforganicvolatiles.
cleaning device such as a cyclone separator. Air pressures at
Samples of drill cuttings can be collected for analyses of
the bit
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: D5872/D5872M − 13 D5872/D5872M − 18
Standard Guide for
Use of Casing Advancement Drilling Methods for
Geoenvironmental Exploration and Installation of
Subsurface Water-Quality Water Quality Monitoring Devices
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D5872/D5872M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the
year of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last
reapproval. A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope*
1.1 This guide covers how casing-advancement casing advancement drilling and sampling procedures may be used for
geoenvironmental exploration and installation of subsurface water-quality water quality monitoring devices.
1.2 Different methods exist to advance casing for geoenvironmental exploration. Selection of a particular method should be
made on the basis of geologic conditions at the site. This guide does not include procedures for wireline rotary casing advancer
systems which are addressed in Guide D5786.
1.3 Casing-advancement Casing advancement drilling methods for geoenvironmental exploration and monitoring-device
installations will often involve safety planning, administration, and documentation. This guide does not purport to specifically
address exploration and site safety.
1.4 The values stated in either SI units or inchpoundinch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated
in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values
from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.6 This guide offers an organized collection of information or a series of options and does not recommend a specific course
of action. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment.
Not all aspects of this guide may be applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not intended to represent or replace
the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied
without consideration of a project’s many unique aspects. The word “Standard” in the title of this document means only that the
document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
D2113 Practice for Rock Core Drilling and Sampling of Rock for Site Exploration
D3740 Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as Used in
Engineering Design and Construction
D4428/D4428M Test Methods for Crosshole Seismic Testing
D5088 Practice for Decontamination of Field Equipment Used at Waste Sites
D5092 Practice for Design and Installation of Groundwater Monitoring Wells
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.21 on Groundwater and Vadose
Zone Investigations.
Current edition approved Aug. 1, 2013June 1, 2018. Published October 2013July 2018. Originally approved in 1995. Last previous edition approved in 20122013 as
D5872 – 95 (2012).D5872 – 13. DOI: 10.1520/D5872_D5872M-13.10.1520/D5872_D5872M-18.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D5872/D5872M − 18
D5434 Guide for Field Logging of Subsurface Explorations of Soil and Rock
D5521 Guide for Development of Groundwater Monitoring Wells in Granular Aquifers
D5782 Guide for Use of Direct Air-Rotary Drilling for Geoenvironmental Exploration and the Installation of Subsurface
Water-Quality Monitoring Devices
D5786 Practice for (Field Procedure) for Constant Drawdown Tests in Flowing Wells for Determining Hydraulic Properties of
Aquifer Systems
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of general terms refer to Terminology D653.
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:Definitions:
3.2.1 bentonite—the common name for drilling fluid additives and well-construction products consisting mostly of naturally
occurring montmorillonite. Some bentonite products have chemical additives that may affect water-quality analyses.
3.1.1 For definitions of general terms used within this standard, refer to Terminology D653.
3.2.2 bentonite granules and chips—irregularly-shaped particles of bentonite (free from additives) that have been dried and
separated into a specific size range.
3.2.3 bentonite pellets—roughly spherical- or disc-shaped units of compressed bentonite powder (some pellet manufacturers
coat the bentonite with chemicals that may affect the water-quality analysis).
3.1.2 cleanout depth—the depth to which the end of the drill string (bit or core barrel cutting end) has reached after an interval
of cutting. The cleanout depth (or drilled depth as it is referred to after cleaning out of any sloughed material in the bottom of the
borehole) is usually recorded to the nearest 30 mm [0.1 ft].
3.2.5 drawworks—a power-driven winch, or several winches, usually equipped with a clutch and brake system(s) for hoisting
or lowering a drilling string.
3.2.6 drill hole—a cylindrical hole advanced into the subsurface by mechanical means. Also known as a borehole or boring.
3.2.7 drill string—the complete rotary drilling assembly under rotation including bit, sampler/core barrel, drill rods and
connector assemblies (subs). The total length of this assembly is used to determine drilling depth by referencing the position of
the top of the string to a datum near the ground surface.
3.2.8 filter pack—also known as a gravel pack or primary filter pack in the practice of monitoring-well installations. The gravel
pack is usually granular material, having selected grain-size characteristics, that is placed between a monitoring device and the
borehole wall. The basic purpose of the filter pack or gravel envelope is to act as: a non-clogging filter when the aquifer is not
suited to natural development or, act as a formation stabilizer when the aquifer is suitable for natural development.
3.2.8.1 Discussion—
Under most circumstances a clean, quartz sand or gravel should be used. In some cases a pre-packed screen may be used.
3.2.9 hoisting line—or drilling line, is wire rope used on the drawworks to hoist and lower the drill string.
3.2.10 in-situ testing devices—sensors or probes, used for obtaining mechanical- or chemical-test data, that are typically pushed,
rotated or driven below the bottom of a borehole following completion of an increment of drilling. However, some in-situ testing
devices (such as electronic pressure transducers, gas-lift samplers, tensiometers, and so forth) may require lowering and setting of
the device(s) in pre-existing boreholes by means of a suspension line or a string of lowering rods or pipes. Centralizers may be
required to correctly position the device(s) in the borehole.
3.2.11 mast—or derrick, on a drilling rig is used for supporting the crown block, top drive, pulldown chains, hoisting lines, etc.
It must be constructed to safely carry the expected loads encountered in drilling and completion of wells of the diameter and depth
for which the rig manufacturer specifies the equipment.
3.2.11.1 Discussion—
To allow for contingencies, it is recommended that the rated capacity of the mast should be at least twice the anticipated weight
load or normal pulling load.
3.2.12 subsurface water-quality monitoring device— an instrument placed below ground surface to obtain a sample for analyses
of the chemical, biological, or radiological characteristics of subsurface pore water or to make in-situ measurements.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 Casing advancement may be used in support of geoenvironmental exploration and for installation of subsurface
water-quality monitoring devices in both unconsolidated and consolidated materials. Casing-advancement sediment. Casing
advancement systems and procedures used for geoenvironmental exploration and instrumentation installations consist of direct
D5872/D5872M − 18
air-rotary drilling utilizing conventional rotary bits or a down-the-hole hammer drill with underreaming under reaming capability,
in combination with a drill-through drill through casing driver.
NOTE 1—Direct air-rotary drilling uses pressured air for circulation of drill cuttings. In some instances, water or foam additives, or both, may be injected
into the air stream to improve cuttings-lifting capacity and cuttings return. The use of air under high pressures may cause fracturing of the formation
materials or extreme erosion of the borehole, if drilling pressures and techniques are not carefully maintained and monitored. If borehole damage becomes
apparent, consideration to other drilling method(s) should be given.
4.1.1 Casing-advancement Casing advancement methods allow for installation of subsurface water-quality water quality
monitoring devices and collection of water-quality water quality samples at any depth(s) during drilling.
4.1.2 Other advantages of casing-advancement casing advancement drilling methods include: the capability of drilling without
the introduction of any drilling fluid(s) to the subsurface; maintenance of hole stability for sampling purposes and monitor-well
installation/construction in poorly-indurated to unconsolidated materials.
4.1.3 The user of casing-advancement casing advancement drilling for geoenvironmental exploration and monitoring-device
monitoring device installations should be cognizant of both the physical (temperature and airborne particles) and chemical
(compressor lubricants and possible fluid additives) qualities of compressed air that may be used as the circulating medium.
4.2 The application of casing-advancement casing advancement drilling to geoenvironmental exploration may involve soil or
rock sampling, or in-situ in situ soil, rock, or pore-fluid testing. The user may install a monitoring device within the same borehole
wherein sampling, in-situ in situ or pore-fluid testing, or coring was performed.
4.3 The subsurface water-quality water quality monitoring devices that are addressed in this guide consist generally of a
screened-screened or porous-intake porous intake device and riser pipe(s) that are usually installed with a filter pack to enhance
the longevity of the intake unit, and with isolation seals and low-permeability backfill to deter the movement of fluids or infiltration
of surface water between hydrologichydrogeologic units penetrated by the borehole (see Practice D5092). Inasmuch as a A
piezometer is primarily a device used for measuring subsurface hydraulic heads, the conversion of a piezometer to a water-quality
water quality monitoring device should be made only after consideration of the overall quality and integrity of the installation to
include the quality of materials that will contact sampled water or gas. Both water-quality water quality monitoring devices and
piezometers should have adequate casing seals, annular isolation seals, and backfills to deter communication of contaminants
between hydrologichydrogeologic units.
NOTE 2—The quality of the result produced by this standard is dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the suitability of the
equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective
testing/sampling/inspection/etc. testing/sampling/evaluation/and the like. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does
not in itself assure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice D3740 provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.
5. Apparatus
5.1 Casing-advancement Casing advancement systems and procedures used for geoenvironmental exploration and instrumen-
tation installations include: direct air rotary air-rotary in combination with a drill-through drill through casing driver, and
conventional rotary bits or down-the-hole hammer drill with or without underreaming under reaming capability. Each of these
methods requires a specific type of drill rig and tools.
NOTE 3—In North America, the sizes of casings bits, drill rods and core barrels are standardized by American Petroleum Institute (API) ((1)1) and
the Diamond Core Drill Manufacturers Association (DCDMA). Refer to the DCDMA Technical Manual ((2)2) and to published materials of API for
available sizes and capacities of drilling tools equipment.
5.1.1 Direct air-rotary drill rigs equipped with drill-through drill through casing drivers have a mast-mounted, percussion driver
that is used to set casing while simultaneously utilizing a top-head rotary-drive rotary drive unit. The drill string is generally
advanced with bit being slightly ahead of the casing. Fig. 1 shows the various components of the drill-through drill through casing
driver system. Other mechanical components include casings, drill rods, drill bits, air compressors, pressure lines, swivels, dust
collectors, and air-cleaning device (cyclone separator).
5.1.1.1 Mast-Mounted Casing Driver, using a piston activated by air pressure to create driving force. Casing drivers are devised
to principally drive casing down while drilling but they can also be used to drive the casing upward for casing removal.
5.1.1.2 Standard Casings, driven with the casing driver. The bottom of the casing is equipped with a forged or cast alloy drive
shoe. The top of the casing fits into the casing driver by means of an anvil. In hard formations geologic formations, casings may
be welded at connections for added stability. The casing size is usually selected to provide a drill hole of sufficient diameter for
the requiredneeded sampling or testing or for insertion of instrumentation device components such as the screened intake and filter
pack and installation devices such as a tremie pipe.
5.1.1.3 Other considerations for selection of casing size are borehole depth and formation type. The casing size should allow
for adequate annulus between the casing and the drill rod for upward discharge of cuttings. Also, consideration should be made
when difficult formations are expected to require telescoping from larger to smaller casing diameters.
The boldface numbers in parentheses refer to a list of references at the end of this standard.
D5872/D5872M − 18
FIG. 1 Casing Drivers can be Fitted to Top-Head Drive Rotary Rigs to Simultaneously Drill and Drive Casing
5.1.1.4 Drill Rods, used inside the casing for rotary air drilling. The rods extend through the casing driver and are connected
to a top-head drive motor for rotation and transfer of rotational force from the drill rig to the bit or core barrel. Drill rod and casing
are usually assembled as a unit and raised into position on the mast. Individual drill rods should be straight so they do not contribute
to excessive vibrations or “whipping” of the drill-rod column. All threaded connections should be in good repair and not leak
significantly at the internal air pressure requiredneeded for drilling. Drill rods should be made up securely by wrench tightening
at the threaded joint(s) at all times to prevent rod damage. Drill pipes usually require lubricants on the threads to allow easy
unthreading (breaking) of the connecting joints. Some lubricants have organic or metallic constituents, or both, that could be
interpreted as contaminants if detected in a sample. Various lubricants are available that have components of known chemistry. The
effect of pipe-thread lubricants on chemical analyses of samples should be considered and documented when using casing-
advancement casing advancement drilling. The same consideration and documentation should be given to lubricants used with
water swivels, hoisting swivels, or other devices used near the drilling axis.
5.1.1.5 Rotary Bit, attached to the bottom of the drill rod and provides material-cutting capability. Core barrels may be used to
obtain sample cores and during this operation the casing can be advanced up to the length of the core barrel. Numerous bit types
can be selected depending on the formation properties. Some types successfully used include roller-cone rock bits and drag bits.
In hard formations geologic formations, down-the-hole hammers can be substituted for rotary drill bits. Bit selectonselection can
be aided by review of referenced literature or consultation with manufacturers, or both.
5.1.1.6 Perform coring of rock in accordance with Practice D2113. Soil sampling or coring methods, some of which are listed
in 2.2, can also be used to obtain samples and advance the hole. Simultaneously coring and advancing the casing with the casing
driver would normally be considered incompatible.
5.1.1.7 Direct-rotary bits have discharge ports that are in close proximity with the bottom of the hole. When these are used in
loose cohesionless materials,sediment, jetting or excessive erosion of the test intervals could occur.
D5872/D5872M − 18
5.1.2 Casing-advancement Casing advancement drill rigs may be equipped with either standard or underreaming under reaming
down-the-hole hammers. Standard down-the-hole hammers can be used in unconsolidated deposits to break up highly abrasive
particlessediment, such as cobbles and boulders. Underreaming Under reaming down-the-hole hammers operate by drilling and
underreaming under reaming the drill hole using an air-activated down-the-hole percussion hammer so that the casing falls or can
be pushed downward directly behind the hammer bit. Cuttings are removed from the drill hole by air exiting the down-the-hole
hammer. In stable rock formations geologic formations, such as within rock, casings may not be required.needed. Down-the-hole
hammers may also be used with direct air-rotary drilling procedures discussed in Guide D5782.
5.1.3 Down-the-Hole Hammer, is a pneumatic drill operated on the end of the drill rods. The bit at the end of the hammer is
constructed of alloy steel and tungsten-carbide inserts to provide cutting or chipping surfaces. The pneumatic hammer impacts the
rock surface while the drill pipe is slowly rotated. Rotation of the bit helps ensure even penetration and straight holes in rock.
Proper rotational speed is 10 to 30 rpm with lower speeds used in harder rock. Down-the-hole hammers require air pressures
2 3
ranging from 700 to 1400 kPa [100 to 200 lb/in. ] and volumes of 2.8 to 8.5 m /min [100 to 300 cfm].
5.2 Air Compressors, required needed to operate the casing driver and the down-the-hole hammer and to provide air to circulate
the drill cuttings out of the borehole.
5.2.1 Air Compressor and Filter(s), providing adequate air without significant contamination, for removal of cuttings generated
at the bit. Air requirements for casing drivers can be evaluated from manufacturers’ literature. Air requirements for rotary drilling
bits or down-the-hole hammers will depend upon the drill rod and bit configuration, the charactercharacteristics of the
materialgeology penetrated, the depth of drilling below groundwater level, and the total depth of drilling. The flow-rate
requirements are usually based on an annulus upflow velocity of about 900 to 1200 m/min [about 3000 to 4000 ft/min] even though
upflow rates of less than 900 to 1200 m/min [about 3000 to 4000 ft/min] are often adequate for cuttings transport. Guidance for
design of air-pressure circulation systems can be found in referenced literature.
5.2.1.1 The quality of compressed air entering the borehole and the quality of air discharged from the borehole and air-cleaning
devices must be considered. If not adequately filtered, the air produced by most oil-lubricated air compressors can introduce some
oil into the circulation system. High-efficiency, inline, air filters are usually requiredneeded to minimize contamination of the
borehole. Air-quality monitoring may be requiredneeded and, if performed, results should be documented.
5.2.2 Pressure Hose, conducting the air from the air compressor to the swivel.
5.2.3 Swivel, directing the air to the drill-rod column.
5.2.4 Discharge Hose, conducting air and cuttings from the drill-hole annulus to an air-cleaning device.
5.2.5 Air-Cleaning Device, generally called a cyclone separator—separates cuttings from the air returning from the drill hole
via the discharge hose. A properly-sized correctly sized cyclone separator can remove practically all of the cuttings from the return
air. A small quantity of fine particles, however, are usually discharged to the atmosphere with the “cleaned” air. Some air-cleaning
devices consist of a cyclone separator alone. In specialcertain cases, the cyclone separator can be combined with a HEPA
(high-efficiency particulate air) filter for removing dust particles that might be radioactive. In other special situations, the cyclone
separator may be used in conjunction with a charcoal-filtering arrangement for removal of organic volatiles. Samples of drill
cuttings can be collected for analyses of materials penetrated. If samples are obtained, the depth(s) and interval(s) of sample
collection should be documented.
5.2.6 Compressed air alone can often transport cuttings from the drill hole and cool the bit. For some geologic conditions,
injection of water into the ai
...