Core drilling, an essential geological exploration technology, employs specialized drilling systems to extract intact rock and mineral samples from subsurface formations. This process enables reliable geological assessment and mineral resource evaluation. But what method ensures precise core recovery?

What Is Core Drilling?

Core drilling is a scientific method of obtaining intact rock samples (cores) from underground using specialized drilling equipment. This technology provides first-hand data on subsurface rock structures, composition, and physical properties, offering reliable evidence for geological research and engineering decision-making.

Core Drilling Principle: The drill rig breaks through underground rock layers by rotating the drill bit while preserving a cylindrical rock sample (core) at the center. This process requires precise control of drilling parameters to ensure core integrity and original condition.

What Are The Coring Methods?

Modern core drilling has developed various efficient coring techniques to adapt to different geological conditions:

• Rotary Drilling Technology: A reliable method that cuts through rock layers via bit rotation, suitable for most geological conditions and capable of obtaining high-quality core samples.
• Single-Tube Double-Barrel Drilling System: Designed for complex formations, the inner tube remains stationary to significantly reduce core disturbance, performing exceptionally well in loose or fractured strata.
• Wireline Coring Technology: A high-efficiency solution that extracts cores via a wireline without retrieving the entire drill string, greatly improving operational efficiency.
• Double-Tube Double-Barrel System: A dual-pipe structure effectively protects cores from flushing fluid erosion, ensuring high core recovery rates in various geological environments.
• Special Coring Techniques: Including oil-based drilling fluid coring, sealed coring, and other advanced methods for specific needs such as oil and gas reservoir exploration.

Applications Across Multiple Fields

• Mine Exploration

By analyzing cores, geologists can precisely locate ore bodies and evaluate reserves and grades. A notable case is the exploration of the Jiajika Lithium Mine in western Sichuan, which set a record with a 3,211.21-meter core drilling depth in plateau conditions, completing high-quality exploration in just 231 days.

• Engineering Construction Surveys

For large-scale projects, core drilling provides critical foundation data:

High-rise buildings: Typically require drilling depths of tens to hundreds of meters to assess bearing capacity.

Transportation hubs: Provide stability analysis for bridges and tunnels.

Hydraulic facilities: Ensure foundation safety for dams and levees.

• Hydrological and Environmental Surveys

Specialized hydrogeological drilling obtains aquifer characteristics:

Reconnaissance holes: Use 91–110 mm drill bits.

Exploration holes: Diameters of 150–350 mm.

Water wells: Can reach large diameters of 150–550 mm.

Recommended Equipment: RCJ1000C Core Drill Rig
 

For various exploration needs, the RCJ1000C Core Drill Rig delivers outstanding performance:

• Powerful engine: 92 KW six-cylinder Yuchai engine, 1400 RPM high speed.
• Flexible operation: 0–90° multi-angle drilling, 30-meter depth per hour.
• Wide applicability: Suitable for mineral exploration, engineering geology, oil and gas surveys, and more.
• High-pressure resistance: Withstands fluid pressures up to 1000 MPa.

Ideal for medium-to-deep hole operations, this rig can reach depths of up to 1400 meters, making it a top choice for professional exploration teams.

Invest in a Core Drill to See What It Can Offer
 

Key considerations before purchasing a core drill rig:

1. Equipment Selection Factors

Work environment: Portable (＜300 m) or truck-mounted (deep holes).

Technical parameters: Match depth, diameter, speed, and torque to project requirements.

2. Quality and Service

Choose RanCheng Machinery.

After-sales support (30% lower failure rate, quick response).

Confirm warranty terms (recommended 1 year minimum).

3. Operational Support System

Auxiliary equipment supply: Drill rods, bits, core barrels, etc.

Consumables supply chain: lubricants, etc.

Technical training: Professional training can improve efficiency by 20–30%.

4. Cost-Benefit Analysis

Balance purchase cost with operational expenses.

Evaluate equipment utilization and return on investment.

Choosing a professional and reliable equipment supplier and building a skilled technical team will maximize your return on investment in core drilling. As an industry leader, RanCheng Machinery offers complete solutions from equipment to services, helping you drill efficiently in geological exploration.

If you plan to purchase a core drilling rig, please purchase core drilling products from Rancheng Machinery to find a model that suits your needs. You can also contact our team to discuss your project or ask questions about the drilling rig.