EXPLORATION AND SAMPLING
Atlas Copco Azure bit reaming shells and casing shoe
problems found on ITH systems used in the industry today. The new core retrieval tooling has been field and lab tested with positive results.
Aiming to make bit selection simple and easy, Atlas Copco has also introduced G14, a collection of its 14 best and most universal core drilling matrices. It says“ the Great 14 Group are the only matrices a driller will ever need.”
The company has analysed its Excore, Hobic and Craelius product lines, and brought together the 14 best and broadest performing matrices. This not only makes stocking the right bit simpler, but also makes it easier to select the right matrix and optimise its performance for a given application. Each bit includes a colourcoded matrix selection chart sticker that can be placed nearby for quick reference. And every bit is labelled with a removable sticker outlining the optimum drilling parameters for that matrix; ensuring drillers are getting the most productivity out of each bit.
Artur Makos, Product Line Manager of High Performance Diamond Tools explains:“ By communicating with drillers, we’ ve learned what
works in the field and created a group that will improve productivity and make life easier. Bringing together well known matrices from the Hobic and Craelius lines with the latest technology from the Excore line, the G14 diamond tools group can handle any drilling application on the planet. As a result contractors can simplify their ordering process, and know they are getting the most productivity out of their core drilling matrices.”
Better Drilling Performance
Fordia offers an array of how-to guides for drillers to help improve drilling performance, by providing tips and advice in choosing core bits and core bit configurations, among others. One of these, the Essential Guide to Improving Your Rate of Penetration, examines such actions as changing core matrix, rotation speed or bit pressure, and how they affect the rate of penetration.
“ Improving penetration rates has a direct impact on profitability as it will increase productivity and lead to recuperating more core. How to achieve better penetration is a challenge for many drillers but there are several factors that must be considered.
“ Choosing the right drill bit is the first decision that will have the greatest impact on your success and drilling productivity. Unfortunately, due to the many variables you must consider, it is
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Booth G4222 a complex question. Complicating matters even more, drill bits are made with a different combination of metals and alloys; they have different levels of impregnation of diamonds, different heights and different configurations.
“ First and foremost, you need to choose the right core bit for the type of ground you will be drilling. You will need to determine the hardness of the rock you will be drilling according to Mohs scale. This can be done easily using a scratch test. Beyond the hardness of the ground, you will need to determine whether the terrain is fractured or competent as each will need a different kind of drill bit.
The guide advises considering core bits that are self-sharpening, such as the Hero 11 Abrasive, as regular sharpening will optimise the penetration rate. For more extensive information on making the right selection, Fordia offers the Essential Guide to Choosing the Right Core Bit. As one one of their most popular guides, it explores other variables that should be considered, such as the type of drill rig to be used and the depth of the hole to be drilled.
Core bits with a higher crown that is impregnated with diamonds, such as the Vulcan series, may improve penetration rates.“ For example, if you are averaging 200 m with a 13 mm crown, but your borehole is 250 m, a Vulcan bit can allow you to complete the hole without changing the bit.
“ Once you have an idea of the matrix you need, you will also need to consider the type of waterway configuration. You want to make sure that the drilling fluid has enough velocity to clear the rock cuttings from the bottom of the hole and to carry them up to the top of the borehole. Drilling fluid must reach the core bit in order to cool it.”
Configurations are available with different waterway widths and matrix heights. Some of these include: The Standard option: n Provides great fluid circulation from the inside to the outside diameters n Is available with wider and / or larger waterways The Pie-shaped option: n Has pie-shaped openings to ensure greater ejection of rock cuttings that may block waterways n Is recommended for higher rotation speeds The Turbo Pie-shaped configuration: n Is a freer cutting bit n Provides the same optimal flushing performance n In some cases, can reach higher penetration rates when compared with the non-turbo. n Is available with wider and / or larger waterway configurations
The cyclone configuration:
24 International Mining | FEBRUARY 2017