It is the preferred method of mineral exploration, drilling and in-pit grade control because it is fast and cost-effective.
What is RC Drilling?
Much like air core drilling, RC drilling returns cutting to the surface through an inner tube inside the rod. This is achieved by blowing air down the rods at a rate up to 1500 Pascals. This creates a pressure differential that pushes cuttings and water up via air lift.
The drilling component is powered by a pneumatic reciprocating piston (also known as the hammer), which drives a steel drill bit.
The two most commonly used drilling bits in RC systems are the fixed cutter and roller cone, both of which are advantageous depending on the project and geographical location of the site.
RC drilling is primarily used on large machinery and drill rigs and often goes to depths of 500 metres.
High quality RC equipment also has the ability to dry out the rock with large air compressors before the drill hits, which provides dry rock chips and, in turn, better samples.
Reverse circulation drilling is the predominant technique based on a number of advantages.
.A higher percentage of uncontaminated cuttings
.Drilling rate similar to open hole drilling, but can often be faster and penetrate greater depths
.One of the most accurate drilling methods
.Quick retrieval of sample rates
.Dry samples allow for easier analysis
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