Geotechnical Drilling: Ground Factors for Wireline Bit Selection

There are different drilling techniques to consider for your commercial or industrial project. If you are interested in obtaining core samples, you should choose wireline core drilling. This process is ideal for performing geotechnical investigations. In simple terms, if you want to assess the conditions of your construction site or explore a potential or existing ore, you will gain diverse benefits by choosing wireline core drilling. This technique uses a hollow drill rod which is impregnated with diamonds.

Basically, this component operates by rotating and digging into the ground, allowing a cylindrical core sample of the ground to be obtained for testing. The method is superior to other drilling techniques because the earth core can be removed independently, without moving the drill rod. If you are thinking about using wireline core drilling in your project, you will need to select an ideal bit. Here are ground considerations to help you identify the right drill bit.

Ground Hardness

The hardness of the ground in your potential site should be considered during the selection of a drill bit. If you choose a bit which is not an ideal match for the ground to be drilled, the results will be undesirable. Moreover, the equipment could break, leading to significant financial losses. The hardness of the ground is categorised according to Mohs hardness scale. This is a measure of the relative hardness of common minerals. You should compare your ground with drill bit ratings to ensure that the match is ideal before selection.

Ground Variability

The ground is not homogenous, so you should consider the variability of your site before choosing the best core bit. It is advisable to consult a professional for an assessment of the ground so that the core bit chosen will be able to breach the ground. For example, the top layer of the ground might be soft and pliable. As the core rod drills deeper, the ground might become harder to penetrate. If you choose your tools based on the top conditions only, the end results may be displeasing. Choose a core drill bit which is designed for versatility because this will allow it to drill into diverse materials.

Competent or Fractured Ground

There are different core bits designed for competent and fractured ground. Fractured ground refers to highly porous and disjointed earth while competent material is dense and solid. Therefore, you should identify the nature of the ground material before choosing your drill. For instance, a fractured ground bit has a deep discharge channel for better ejection of drilling water.

For more information on wireline core drilling, check out a company like Afkos Industries.