Van Elle has expanded its plant and manufacturing capability with a programme of new equipment, aimed at supporting growth in the energy and infrastructure markets and enhancing the safe, efficient delivery of complex ground engineering projects.

Strata Geotechnics has added two Comacchio GEO305 drilling rigs, lifting capacity for rotary drilling and coring. The rigs' wide tracks lower ground bearing pressure and aid access over sensitive surfaces often found on energy and infrastructure sites.

Designed for versatility, the GEO305 units support wireline drilling, dynamic sampling, water or air flush techniques and casing advancement systems, enabling efficient work across varied ground conditions. Their compact format allows transport by tractor, trailer or RRV, while Stage V engines help to cut emissions.

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Restricted access piling capability has been increased with two Hütte 206 rigs, meeting higher demand for works in confined spaces and challenging ground. Purpose-built for tight sites where larger rigs cannot operate effectively, they can install casing up to 880mm and offer improved manoeuvrability and performance in difficult conditions, boosting capacity and operational flexibility.

The Ground Stabilisation fleet has been strengthened with a new Casagrande C6 XP2 drilling rig to raise productivity and on-site capability. Optimised for high-performance rotary percussive drilling, it supports casing up to 320mm and the installation of soil nails, anchors and micropiles up to 103mm. The addition complements an existing fleet of C6, C6 XP and C6 XP2 rigs, with new remote monitoring providing real-time performance data to improve efficiency and reduce downtime.

ScrewFast, the specialist in helical piling and modular steel foundations, has acquired an HF50 helical former for its fabrication facility. The machine forms the helical plates welded to steel shafts to create screw piles, shaping flat plate into precise spirals with controlled pitch, diameter and thickness for high-volume production.

This investment increases output of large-diameter helical piles, supporting demand in the energy and water sectors and strengthening delivery across major infrastructure, including rail and highways.

Collectively, the new rigs and manufacturing equipment enhance capability across Van Elle's operations, bringing advanced technology, improved safety and lower environmental impact.