Slimline Reverse Circulation drilling (RC drilling) is one of the main types of mineral exploration techniques offered by Bostech. The drilling technique is used to collect sample rock cuttings, with the drilling process relying on hollow inner tubes to transport samples back to the surface in a continuous flow using compressed air. Mostly undertaken in unconsolidated or weathered rocks, the method is also used to drill through fractures in hard rocks making it an effective multi-purpose drilling technique.
Here are the benefits of Slimline Reverse Circulation Drilling.
1. Faster drilling rates than conventional methods
When compared to a diamond core or rotary air blast drilling, Slimline Reverse Circulation drilling has much faster drilling rates. This is because there is no need to continuously flush the inner drill pipe with drilling fluid, as the samples are transported back to the surface in a continuous flow.
2. Reduced costs due to less wear and tear on equipment
Another benefit of Slimline Reverse Circulation drilling is that it causes less wear and tear on equipment. This is because the drilling technique utilizes a down-the-hole hammer which breaks up the rock, rather than using rotary action which can cause excessive wear on drill bits and other equipment.
3. Less material is required for backfill, which reduces environmental impact
Another benefit of Slimline Reverse Circulation drilling is that less material is required for backfill. This is because the method uses a smaller diameter inner drill pipe, which means that there is less space for the material to be displaced when drilling. This reduced environmental impact is one of the main reasons why this type of drilling is becoming increasingly popular and well regarded.
4. Easier to maneuver in small or difficult-to-reach areas
For those jobs that require drilling in small or difficult-to-reach areas, Slimline Reverse Circulation drilling is often the best method to use. This is because the RC drill rig has a smaller inner drill pipe makes it much easier to maneuver the equipment into position and then carry out the drilling process.
5. Reduced risk of hole collapse
Another significant advantage of Slimline Reverse Circulation drilling is that it reduces the risk of hole collapse. This is because the annular space between the inner and outer pipes is much smaller, which provides more support for the walls of the hole. This is particularly important in areas where the soil or rock is known to be unstable.
6. Increased safety for drilling personnel
In addition to the reduced risk of hole collapse, Slimline Reverse Circulation drilling also increases safety for the drilling personnel. This is because the inner pipe is much smaller in diameter than the outer pipe. This means that it is less likely to cause injuries if it were to come into contact with someone.
7. Can be used with air or foam as the drilling fluid, which further reduces environmental impact
Another advantage of Slimline Reverse Circulation drilling is that it can be used with air or foam as the drilling fluid. This further reduces environmental impact, as there is no need to use water or other liquids in the drilling process.
8. Minimal formation damage
Slimline Reverse Circulation drilling also causes minimal formation damage. This is because the inner pipe is much smaller in diameter than the outer pipe. This means that there is less contact between the drill bit and the formation, which reduces the amount of damage that can be caused to the formation.
9. Can be used in environmentally sensitive areas
Reverse Circulation drilling can also be used in environmentally sensitive areas. This is because there is no need to use water or other liquids in the drilling process. This reduces the risk of contamination and helps to protect the environment.
10. Can be used for both production and exploration drilling
Reverse Circulation drilling can be used for both exploration and production drilling. This means that it can be used to find new reserves of oil and gas, as well as to produce existing reserves. This makes it a versatile tool that can be used in a variety of situations.
For more on how we’re transforming Australia’s natural resources, visit www.bostech.com.au. Bostech is a proud Australian-owned and operated drilling contractor that serves clients all over Australia. Please call our friendly Bellevue team on 08 9250 4252 today for more information. You can also visit our website to learn more about the various drilling services we provide.