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Diamond core drilling is a precise drilling technique that is used for mineral exploration in the industry, as well as in geological exploration, construction, and engineering. The rotary drill with a diamond-studded drill bit at the end creates clean-cut holes in rock and metal that enables the probing of known and potential ore deposits. This article delves into the process of diamond drilling while discussing its applications and potential benefits as well.
What is diamond drilling?
Diamond drilling, also known as hard rock drilling, is a form of core drilling that is characterized by its diamond-studded drill bits. This technology enables the drilling of clean, precise holes in hard materials like rock or metal. Diamond core drilling is the predominant method used in mining where it has proven to be an exact method for extracting a core for geological sampling and testing.
When is diamond core drilling used?
- Mineral and geological exploration: Used in mining and geological surveys to extract core samples and analyze rock formations, identify mineral deposits, and assess resources
- Construction and engineering: Used to create openings for pipes and conduits in various engineering projects
As a tool, diamond core drilling is used for mineral exploration and resource estimation. In mining, it has proven to be an accurate method for exploring deposits for ore. Not only is it an accurate method, it is also a technique that produces precise results on mineral levels and in sampling. It is also used in construction and various engineering applications.
Diamond drilling equipment
- Diamond core drilling machine
- Diamond core drilling bit
- Diamond core drilling rig
When diamond core drilling, a rotary drill machine is used to create cylindrical holes in materials like rock and metal. The drill has a diamond-shaped drill bit, which is considered a precision instrument for creating clean, accurate cuts without damaging the structural integrity of the material. In other words, it is also a non-percussive technique that enables the extraction of core samples for geological analysis (used in mining) and general construction.
Leverage the Aziwell technology
The AZIDRILL® directional drill provides an efficient way to steer your boreholes straight to target while cutting core. The tool collects data such as direction and inclination of the borehole through sensors sitting in the head assembly while drilling. It is only 30cm longer than a standard wireline core barrel, just replace your standard core barrel with the AZIDRILL®. Hit your targets at first attempt, make multiple branches from one borehole, and reach otherwise impossible areas.
Core extraction for mining purposes
By withdrawing a small diameter core of rock from the orebody, geologists can analyze the core and conduct various studies of the rock, including petrologic, structural, and mineralogical studies. This makes diamond core drilling an accurate method for producing precise results that potentially will impact the overall mineral exploration process and resource estimation.
Diamond core drilling is used in conjunction with soil sampling for testing in the geotechnical engineering industry as well.
Diamond core drilling process
- Initial exposure through the drill bit
- Continued rotary drilling
- Final core extraction
Diamond drilling
The key technology of the diamond drill is the diamond-shaped drill bit. Each drill bit is hollow and connected to a pipe, which in turn is attached to the drilling string. The drilling string connects the entire pipe to the rotary drill rig, which in effect operates as the diamond drilling machine. The rotary drill spins at high speeds, while water is fed through the drill to cool the bit. As previously mentioned, the diamond-studded drill bit enables the drilling of highly accurate and precise holes in hard materials like rock. The ore is then extracted from the rock and stored in the hollow core of the drill bit.
Core extraction
When drilling, the diamond-impregnated drill bit is used to cut through rock and produce a core sample. As the drill rotates, the bit cuts a cylindrical core of the rock material. This core sample is captured in the hollow core tube, and the tube is recovered by wireline, after which the core sample is placed in a core box. At the laboratory, geological analysis is carried out on the rock in the core sample. Detailed geological information on rock quality, structure, and mineralization provides a roadmap on whether there is value in exploring the ore deposit further or not.
Benefits of diamond drilling
A high-precision tool
The primary benefit of diamond core drilling lies in the precise cut of the diamond-studded drilling bit, which creates clean holes and produces high-quality core samples. The samples carry detailed geological information on rock quality, structure, and mineralization, which is crucial for understanding the subsurface conditions for mining and construction projects.
Its versatile application
Diamond drilling is versatile in its application, allowing the implementation of the drilling technique in several use areas, from mineral exploration to engineering. The diamond drill bit is suitable for cutting through a wide variety of rocks as well.
The minimal environmental disturbance
Diamond drilling is a non-percussive technique, which entails that the drilling process generates significantly less vibration, noise, and dust. This makes a difference on the environmental impact that many mining and construction projects have on the local community. By reducing the disruption on these communities, it significantly reduces the environmental impact as well.
Speed and efficiency
The continuous cutting action of the diamond drilling bit, coupled with the minimal contact surface between the rock and the bit, allows for faster drilling times compared to other drilling techniques, which makes it more efficient and less costly in the operation process.
Challenges
Potentially costly equipment
The specialized drilling equipment involves an upfront investment cost, which can be further increased by the operational costs in maintaining and operating the equipment. However, in the long-term, the use of specialized diamond drill equipment might lead to cost-effective results.
Local disruptions
Even though the diamond drilling process does not affect the local communities and environments as much as other drilling techniques, it is in the nature of construction and engineering that it inevitably will impact the local area to a certain degree.
Potential hazards on site
Like in any mining or construction projects, the safety of the workers is of the utmost importance. Those who are carrying out the diamond drilling operations are exposed to risks on a daily basis, from handling heavy, rotating machinery to being exposed to various geological conditions. This requires procedures for training, compliance, and emergency preparedness.
Environmental impact considerations
It is crucial to consider the environmental concerns relating to drilling fluids and cuttings that contain contaminants, creation of waste, or disturbance to flora, fauna, and the geological surface. The mining project must include reasonable and responsible practices for limiting such consequences, like site rehabilitation and proper waste disposal systems.
Summary
Diamond drilling is a non-percussive drilling technique that can be used when extracting core samples of ore deposits for mining purposes. The technology is centered around diamond-impregnated drill bits. The diamond drill bit creates clean, precise holes in hard materials, making it possible to extract core samples for geological analysis. In essence, it is a crucial step for identifying whether to explore the area for minerals and proceed with the mining process.
