Issue 18 - Issuu

GEODRILL
AFRICA’S PREFERRED DRILLING PARTNER
Issue 18 Drilling Exploration & Mining Geology

In Focus // Q&A from the Experts //
January 2022 › Geodrill › Dr Benedikt Steiner, Director
21 Questions // at XPLORE GLOBAL Ltd.
› Mario Rouillier, President
More Inside //
at Groupe Rouillier
› Gold Fever in Guyana
More Inside //
ISSN 2367-847X › Steel-Made Precision Tubes › Rupert Resources:
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Table
Contents
/21 QUESTIONS /TECHNICAL MATERIAL
6 Exclusive interview: 26 A technical note on dogleg severity
Mario Rouillier, President by Dag Billger, Owner & Business Manager
at Groupe Rouillier and Duncan McLeod, Owner
& Product Manager at Inertial Sensing
/IN FOCUS /PRODUCT REVIEW: DRLL RIGS

12 Geodrill: Africa’s 30 From Russia with core strength:
preferred drilling partner RS-90 drill rig manufactured
by Dave Harper, CEO at Geodrill by Rusmining Export
32 Meet MAX: The 8000 lb beast that drills

up to 3100 meters N-size
by Rishi Budshah, CMO at
Hydracore Drills Ltd.
/COMPANY EXPANSION
36 Explomin’s global expansion plan
by Peggy Silva Mayser, Commercial
Manager at Explomin Perforaciones
/EXPLORATION &
MINING GEOLOGY
40 Q&A from the experts:
In conversation with Dr Benedikt Steiner,
Director at XPLORE GLOBAL Ltd.
46 Rupert Resources: The benefits

of aggressive drilling
by Jane Lockwood, Spotlight Mining
/DRILL RODS
48 Gold fever in Guyana
by Ian Foreman, Principal of
18 Steel-made precision tubes for drill rods
Foremost Corporate Services /EXPLORATION
by Steffen Zimmermann, Head of Technical
Sales/Application Engineering; DRILLING CATALOG
Sebastian Schulze, Application Engineer;
Corentin Lorc’h, Quality Manager and 52 Diamond drilling services
Pierre-Jean Marchais, Process Engineer
at Mannesmann Precision Tubes 53 Drilling equipment & accessories
/PRODUCT RELEASE 57 Survey equipment
22 MK-2 Rod Feeder (patent pending): 58 Miscellaneous

The independent rod handling system
that eliminates all hands-on steel
operations for diamond drilling
by Quentin Dulake, Global Sales Executive
at Exploration Drill Masters Chile S.A.
/AUTHORS
Authors in this issue
Mario Rouillier Dr Benedikt Steiner

Dave Harper
President at Director at
CEO at Geodrill
Groupe Rouillier XPLORE GLOBAL Ltd.
Duncan McLeod
Owner & Product
Manager Rishi Budshah Ian Foreman
Dag Billger CMO at Hydracore Principal at Foremost
Owner & Business Drills Ltd. Corporate Services
Manager
at Inertial Sensing
DOWNLOAD YOUR
Peggy Silva Mayser 2022 CALENDAR
Commercial Manager
at Explomin Perforaciones
www.coringmagazine.com/calendar2022
CORING MAGAZINE Publisher Coring Magazine is an international quarterly title

Coring Media covering the exploration core drilling industry.
January 2022
Editor in Chief Published in print and digital formats, Coring has a
Cover photo
Geodrill Grigor Topev rapidly growing readership that includes diamond
drilling contractors, drilling manufacturers and
Executive Officer & Editor
Issue 18 Martina Samarova
suppliers, service companies, mineral exploration
ISSN 2367-847X companies and departments, geologists, and
Editor
Not for resale. Subscribe: many others involved in exploration core drilling.
www.coringmagazine.com/subscribe Maksim M. Mayer
Launched in late 2015, Coring aims to provide
Section Editor –
Exploration & Mining Geology
a fresh perspective on the sector by sourcing
Timothy Strong authentic, informed and quality commentary
direct from those working in the field. With regular
Contact Us Digital Marketing Manager
interviews, insightful company profiles,
Coring Media Ltd. Elena Dorfman
detailed product reviews, field-practice tips
119B D. Petkov Str., Graphic Design and illustrated case studies of the world’s most
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Cog Graphics unique diamond drilling and mineral exploration
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/21 QUESTIONS
Exclusive interview with
Mario questions
Rouillier
President at Groupe Rouillier
Mario Rouillier studied in Abitibi-Témiscamingue,

earning a degree in Business Administration. His
drilling career began more than 39 years ago when
as a teenager, he started working in his father’s
company Rouillier Drilling. Mario moved up the ranks
as driller’s helper, driller, foreman, general manager
and finally as owner and president. In 1994, Mario Grigor Topev: Tell us the story about your
began considering buying the company from his father, start in the drilling industry?
Marcel. Armed with business administration skills and Mario Rouillier: Our family business was drill-
the support of his uncle Raymond, Mario purchased ing and I wanted to be a part of it. I started
Rouillier Drilling and thus achieved his dream of working summers as a driller’s helper when I
was 15. At that time, drilling machinery wasn’t
taking over the family business and making it one of what it is today. The work was difficult, and
the biggest drilling contractors of Eastern Canada. techniques and work safety were far from be-
ing as developed as they are nowadays.
Over the next years, Mario’s decision to acquire GT: During your climb to success, you
both Boréal Drilling and Azimut Drilling, Pro worked in almost every position at your
Drilling Guyane, Foramex, Nordique Drilling as well father’s company - Rouillier Drilling.
Which position left the strongest impres-
as drilling equipment manufacturers VersaDrill
sion on you and taught you the most valu-
Canada and MBI Global substantially contributed able lessons?
to Groupe Rouillier becoming the largest private MR: Management is without a doubt the most
mining group in Canada. This family of companies challenging, but also the most rewarding part
offers a complete range of services and products. of the work. Learning by working with my fa-
ther was invaluable. He taught me the ropes
Mario is a Board Member of several organizations and was there through every step and coached
me on how to take care of our people. Having
including MISA, an organization working to stimulate himself been a driller, he knew exactly what
innovation in the Québec mining sector, and the the work entailed and the effort it required.
Canadian Diamond Drilling Association (CDDA). He One day, as we were grocery shopping for our
teams in the field, I remember him telling me
is a shareholder of the Research in Diamond Drilling that I need to get the best for them. Those big
(RIDD) organization and also of Youdin Rouillier steaks were what they deserved after a long
Drilling, a Cree company, as well as Avataa Rouillier day of work. I never forgot that.
Our philosophy and slogan are ‘We Care
Drilling, an Inuit company. Since 2007, Mario has been
Deeply’ and this has been the spirit of our
a Chairman of the Board of Directors of Refuge Pageau, business since the start when my father
shelter and rehabilitation center for wild animals. founded Rouillier Drilling.

GT: What has been the most impressive GT: After long years at Rouillier Drilling, and heli-portable diamond drilling; Youdin
drilling project that you have ever partic- you bought the company. How did you de- Rouillier Drilling and Avataa Rouillier Drill-
ipated in? cide to make this step? ing in diamond drilling services, respectively
in partnership with the Cree Nation and the
MR: There was one project in Peru which was MR: In 1995, my father was talking about sell-
Inuit Nation.
at a high altitude that comes to mind. Howev- ing the company to prepare for his retirement.
In manufacturing, and under the helm of
er, the one that left the strongest impression When I found out, I decided I needed to make
MBI Global, itself offering custom solutions
is by far the Lapa Mine, at the beginning of this an offer to buy the business. I worked hard for
in superior core drilling products for superi-
decade. This was an Agnico Eagle mine that a whole year to get the financing required. I
or results, are VersaDrill Canada providing
was newly discovered along the Cadillac Fault, acquired the company because I wanted our
high-performance diamond drills, and Gtech-
between Val-d’Or and Rouyn, in the Abitibi-Té- family business to remain in the family.
Drill, specializing in exceptional geotechnical
miscamingue area of Québec, Canada. This As a young man in my twenties, I was confi-
drills. In addition, VersaRent leases geotech-
project required that we refine and perfect dent I could make it work because I was very
nical drills.
our operations. And so, it brought forth a lot of well-surrounded. I had the core team, many of
Furthermore, our expert research unit, RIDD,
development in our techniques enabling us to is engaged in the research and development of
make great strides in our methods. It present- additive manufactured coatings using direct-
ed so many challenges, among which, wedges, ‘As a young man in my ed energy deposition (DED) technology.
deep holes and deviation, along with work on
additives. At that time, re-using waters was
twenties, I was confident GT: It will be interesting to know where
does Rouillier Drilling stand on the Cana-
not as present a concern as it is today, this I could make it work dian market?
awareness was only beginning, and that was
a turning point for us, as we integrated this because I was very well- MR: Rouillier Drilling is among Eastern Can-
practice to our operations. surrounded. I had the ada’s largest private companies in our area
I must also add that our contract in the of activities and has over 350 employees at
Polar Circle has also brought its fair share core team, many of which this time.
of challenges.
are still in the company GT: Can you share interesting and lit-
GT: Name the project that took the lon- tle-known facts about VersaDrill Canada
gest to complete and the one that re-
today, to help me navigate and its acquisition by Groupe Rouillier?
quired the highest number of drill rigs in through this new position MR: In 2013, we acquired VersaDrill Canada,
the last 25 years. a manufacturer of underground and surface
and responsibility. I also drill rigs, that is now under the banner of MBI
MR: Several of our projects required a lot of
time and a larger number of drill rigs. Firstly, had my father’s brother- Global. We invested a great deal in the design
the previously mentioned Lapa Mine. Also, of a series of geotechnical drills and in the re-
in-law, Uncle Raymond, search and development of an autonomous
the Bracemac-McLeod project in Matagami,
Canada that is owned by Glencore, along with with me to lead us on to drill rig, which is presently in use for a trial pe-
riod at Agnico Eagle’s Goldex Mine.
Raglan Mines’ Nunavik, Amex Explorations,
and several other projects.
the coming challenges. Now under the MBI Global banner, Versa-
Drill Canada’s development has taken place by
The project that has lasted the longest with It wasn’t easy but it was working to strengthen and widen its distribu-
the greatest number of drill rigs on-site for us
greatly facilitated by tion center. We currently have four offices and
is Osisko Mining’s Windfall project that has
16 distributors worldwide, we sell in 30 coun-
been ongoing since 2015. It is located up north
what I call my team of tries, and are working to further expand sales.
in the James Bay region and is three hours
Ongoing projects to further develop the au-
from Lebel-sur-Quévillon, Canada in different superheroes at my side.’ tonomous drill rig are underway. We are also
zones (Main, Lynx and Underdog) and covers developing and testing a drill rod handling
a length of 2300 m (7546 ft) and spans to a device for underground drilling. Other very
depth of about 1500 m (4921 ft) from the sur- which are still in the company today, to help promising projects are in the works in relation
face down. me navigate through this new position and to diamond along with geotechnical drilling.
GT: What is one improvement or innova- responsibility. I also had my father’s brother- We are making great strides and will soon be
tion that has revolutionized drilling since in-law, Uncle Raymond, with me to lead us on able to bring more details about these.
the beginning of your career? How has to the coming challenges. It wasn’t easy but it
GT: Rouillier Drilling offers a work-study
the industry changed since its implemen- was greatly facilitated by what I call my team
program that provides paid training in di-
of superheroes at my side.
tation? amond drilling. Please elaborate on that.
GT: You have established Groupe Rouillier.
MR: The aspect where I have seen the most MR: We have three types of programs. One
Please tell us the specialty of each of the
improvement and innovation is in terms of of them is offered through a partnership with
companies that form it.
deviation when drilling. We have managed to the CFP Val-d’Or, which dispenses Diploma of
closely monitor, follow and bring more preci- MR: Groupe Rouillier encompasses Rouillier Vocational Studies (DVS) programs, among
sion to our drilling operations. Drilling specializing in surface, underground, which, a paid 600-hour program. Students
Drillers’ trusted publication 7

/21 QUESTIONS
complete this four-month program and can These employees are very proud of their action is aging and a whole generation of expe-
immediately start working as drillers’ helpers, complishments and are rewarded for their ef- rienced workers is retiring. For the decade to
with the benefit of an assured job with us. forts, thus far it has been a very successful ini- come, there will be a gap in skilled labor, and
We have also worked jointly with Avataa tiative. One of our drillers has even written a all industries will be searching for employees.
Rouillier Drilling to set up the Avataa Rouillier book detailing the procedures to guide drillers’ Also, when our sector was experiencing a
Drilling school to offer comprehensive train- helpers and aiding them in becoming self-reli- lag, companies weren’t investing as much
ing to local workers who are interested in ant faster. It is very inspiring for us to see our in recruiting and training. One solution is to
working in our industry. This has been made experienced drillers passing on their knowl- work together as companies and consult with
possible thanks to the invaluable participation edge and teaching up-and-coming drillers. each other. That is already happening with the
of Kativik Ilisarniliriniq, Raglan Mine, CSMO help of the Québec Mineral Exploration As-
GT: What do you think about the labor
Mines, as well as Charlie Watt and Christine sociation and MISA, as we work together on
shortage issue in Canada? What caused
Nakoolak of Avataa Rouillier Drilling. finding solutions.
it? What are the possible solutions to the
And lastly, our in-house program for drill- Another solution is to continue to work as
situation?
ers’ helpers, who perform very well, and for we are with MBI Global on developing and
the drillers coaching them. This way a driller’s MR: There is indeed a labor shortage, in all sec- perfecting an autonomous drill rig, as well
helper can become a driller sooner. tors of the Canadian economy, as the popula- as drill rod handling equipment, to attract a
greater number of people to occupy these
jobs. A person with less experience will be
able to operate the autonomous drill rig much
more easily. In fact, we have a driller’s helper
who started using this drill rig and within a few
weeks was able to operate it on his own. As
the equipment becomes easier and simpler to
operate, it will no longer take years and years
to become a driller. The autonomous drill now
collects data to help us adjust and manage our
drilling operations in real-time. That is certain-
ly a vital key to managing the shortage.
GT: In 2021, there have been many
high-profile mergers and acquisitions.
What are the requirements for a success-
ful merger/acquisition? Do you think that
the diamond drilling industry is heading
towards a market consolidation particu-
larly in Canada?
MR: Between 2012 and 2018, we saw a good
deal of mergers and acquisitions in our sector
because those were harder times. I expect
that there will be many more in the years to
come. There is a growing trend, across all busi-
ness sectors, towards consolidating.
This will happen either in an effort to see
expansion, bring a more diversified offer and
reach a larger market share, or because small-
er companies will team up with larger corpo-
rations in their efforts to protect their supplier
chain and also to overcome the challenges of
the labor shortage. There is definitely strength
in numbers.
GT: How did you tackle the COVID-19 pan-
demic? Has the importance of safety in-
creased since?
MR: Safety has always been a concern in our
field and our employees’ awareness is abso-
lutely essential to a safe work environment. I
think the effect the pandemic may have had
on employees is making them all the more
↑ Visiting the Nunavik contract aware of the importance of their safety.

The health and safety of our employees have
always been an integral part of our values, and
so, a top priority. We acted very quickly when
the COVID-19 pandemic hit. We added to our
already rigorous safety practices immediate-
ly by implementing preventive measures to
make our teams feel safe. We kept our staff
well-informed, created hygiene stations with
all the necessary items for a safe work envi-
ronment, added signage as reminders, and
adapted all our work vehicles with protective
panels to ensure proper distancing and safety.
GT: What would make a contractor a pre-
ferred employer in the drilling industry?
MR: To have a good relationship with your
employees, you must remain close to them
and their reality. Listening to them, being
open-minded, knowing what their needs are
and working on ways to make their work eas-
ier and help them perform their duties, are
a given.
We have always had as one of our core val-
ues, caring for our employees. For several
years now, we have had an employee assis-
tance program (EAP) which ensures our teams
have quick and easy access to health profes-
sionals, we even have an in-house doctor at
their disposal!
It is a natural thing for us to see to their safe-
ty and contentment in their job. After all, our
slogan is ‘We Care Deeply’, and that is reflect-
ed in all we do.
GT: From your point of view, what is the
most important quality that makes a
drilling contractor stand out among the
others and become a preferred choice for
the mining companies?
MR: A way to stand out and be noticed is to
not only be aware of the environmental is-
sues and stakes but also to be proactive about ↑ Mario and his daughter Frédérique Rouillier, HR, visiting a drill site to put their
them, and implement clear and effective slogan ‘We care deeply’ into action
measures. As well, having superior health and
safety policies and practices makes a company number of deep and directional drilling bringing more results. Drilling less but drill-
more attractive. projects. How did you manage to achieve ing better.
It is crucial to take care of the environment that?
and the people in it. Obtaining the UL ECOLO- GT: What is your prognosis for the dia-
GO® certification for mineral exploration is a MR: We have indeed improved and perfected mond drilling industry in 2022 (compared
concrete way to ensure the company’s prac- our drilling methods by drilling deeper and to 2021)? Do you think that the price per
tices are in line with today’s environmental honing our skills and specializing in reaching drilled meter will go higher?
and social concerns. We were in fact honored our clients’ geological targets.
at the Québec Mineral Exploration Associa- What will vastly contribute to these opera- MR: I believe numbers will remain stable. In
tion’s 2021 convention, Xplor, and received tions will be collecting data with our autono- 2022, the number of meters drilled will be
the ‘Excellence in Sustainable Development’ mous drill rigs. This will allow us to drill more close to those drilled in 2021. The labor short-
Recognition award. precisely and require less drilling meterage for age will be the factor that will limit our activ-
It is the way of the present and the future.
our clients while reaching more targets, thus ities and we won’t be able to take on more
GT: Over the past few years, Rouillier increasing the potential for success. In other works. There may be a demand but we will not
Drilling experienced an increase in the words, drilled meters will be quality meters, have all the skilled labor required.

/21 QUESTIONS
GT: You’ve mentioned autonomous drill vance drill rod and inner tube assistance a way to screw it up; give a mediocre idea to
rigs several times, what is your opinion through the development of handling tools a good team and they’ll find a way to make it
on their future and potential? and equipment. a success.
It goes without saying that your team must
MR: The autonomous drill rig is certainly the GT: You have held many leadership roles
be provided with the best tools and support,
means to reaching more targets. It collects over the years. What are the qualities
data and allows drilling assistance making and as a leader, you must be ready to make the
that you think helped you thrive? What
for smarter, more efficient drilling. Having difficult decisions and navigate this arduous
would be your advice to young entrepre-
a single operator is an excellent solution to process. Make your team’s skills and talents
neurs that want to start on their own in
the labor shortage. We will now be speaking your best assets.
the drilling industry?
in terms of operators as opposed to experi- Finally, the UL 2724 ECOLOGO® Certification
enced drillers, widening the possibilities for MR: The key is to unequivocally surround Program for Suppliers of Mineral Exploration
finding workers. Our operators will be better yourself with the best. I also believe it is very Industry is a powerful tool to make your com-
equipped for better performance, and this will important to map out a clear and concise pany an active player for the future. We must
further raise their salaries, enabling them to plan and to share it with your team. Having a follow the rules and think of our activities as a
drill more meters. strong guiding principle and making sure it is long-term endeavor contributing to the health
understood by your entire team is essential. of the planet and its inhabitants. C
GT: What other game-changing technol-
If I had to give one piece of advice, I would
ogies do you think will be developed and
say to new drilling contractors to do it with
implemented in exploration drilling in the
a passion, not just for the money. Surround
next five years? For more information
yourself well and bring out the best in your
Visit: www.foragesrouillier.com/en/
MR: The upcoming technology that will help people for a well-rounded, efficient team. Give
drillers in their work will be to further ad- a good idea to a mediocre team and they’ll find
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/IN FOCUS
Geodrill:
Africa’s preferred
drilling partner
by Dave Harper, CEO at Geodrill

GEODRILL
Geodrill is a well-established drilling

contractor and a preferred partner in
West Africa. The company prides itself on
investing in modern equipment and world-
class operations to supply its clients with a
‘one-stop’ drilling solution. As a purpose-
led company, their expertise, experience
in the field, highest maintenance,
Health, safety, environment and quality
(HSEQ) standards, and Environmental,
social and governance (ESG) vision and
values, have earned Geodrill a reputation
for delivering results. This is best
demonstrated by an impressive rig growth
profile – attributable to the company’s
strong culture of professionalism,
customer satisfaction and caring for the
communities in which they operate.
Company history and development

Geodrill was founded in Ghana in 1998 by the current CEO Dave Harper
with one rig and one contract. The company soon began adding rigs in
response to growing demand and has continued to expand from coun-
try to country.
For the following decade, 2000 to 2010, Geodrill focused on expand-
ing its operations into neighboring countries such as Burkina Faso and
Côte d’Ivoire where the company established a number of operational
and support bases to service its growing rig fleet. The company also op-
erated in Niger, Guinea and Togo.
In 2010, the company listed on the Toronto stock market, under tick-
er GEO.T. In 2017, Geodrill commenced operations underground and
currently operates a fleet of six Boart Longyear LM™90 underground
drill rigs.
Three years later, the company expanded its geographic presence
into South America through its wholly owned subsidiary Recon Drilling.
Their maiden project in the Santander mine, Peru, has broken the re-
cord for the deepest hole in the country at 1990.3 m (≈ 6530 ft). Drilling
was conducted at altitudes ranging from 4500 m (14 800 ft) to 5000 m
(16 400 ft). Recon has since continued expanding in the Latin American
region (read more in Issue 17 of Coring Magazine).
In 2021, Geodrill also added mine blast hole drilling to its business,
providing the full gamut of explorations services. The company was
honored with an award for its excellent operational record in mining and
exploration by The Millennium Excellence Foundation (MEF). The cere-
mony was held in Kumasi, the capital of the Ashanti Region in Ghana, in
the presence of the country’s president. Among the previous recipients
is Kofi Annan – former Secretary-General of the United Nations and No-
bel Peace Prize winner.
Today, Geodrill has a fleet of 71 drill rigs and is one of the leading ex-
ploration companies operating primarily in Ghana, Burkina-Faso, Côte
d’Ivoire and Mali in West Africa; Egypt in North Africa, and Peru in
South America. The company revenue in Q3 of 2021 has increased by
44% in comparison to Q3 2020, while maintaining strong profitability.

/IN FOCUS
↑ Geodrill’s Anwiankwanta Operations Base, located near Kumasi in Ghana
One of the key aspects behind these excellent results is that Geodrill services including Reverse circulation (RC), Diamond core, Air-core,
has extended its core multi-rig operations. Furthermore, the company Grade control, Geo-tech, underground and water bore drilling. Offering
managed to maintain a high utilization rate of 65% even during the wet both surface and underground drilling as well as specialized and more
season (April–October). routine drilling services, has helped Geodrill establish itself as a uni-
In 2021, Geodrill was simultaneously utilizing rigs for drilling projects versal drilling services provider. The company continually evaluates its
with the following clients: suite of offered services with a view to maintaining a leadership position
• 12 rigs with Endeavour Mining between their sites in Côte d’Ivoire in the industry.
and Burkina Faso; The most preferred and popular service among Geodrill’s clients is
• 12 rigs with Perseus Mining on sites in Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana; RC drilling, typically to depths of up to 400 m (1312 ft). Geodrill often
• 8 rigs with Roxgold in Côte d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso; provides this method with the help of its multi-purpose rigs, which can
• 8 rigs working in Ghana for Asanko Gold; switch between RC and diamond core drilling mid-way through a hole
• 6 rigs with Atlantic Lithium (formerly Iron Ridge Resources) on
with minimal effort or down-time. This gives clients flexibility and re-
projects in Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana.
duces stand-by time and preparation and mobilization charges. Thus,
The projects with Endeavour Mining and Perseus Mining alone are ex-
the company’s efficiency is improved, lowering their ‘average cost per
pected to generate 500 000 m (1 640 420 ft) of drilling in 2022 and 2023.
meter’.
‘With these significant industry tailwinds and favorable macroeco-
nomic conditions, Geodrill remains focused on continuing to drive
growth in revenue, earnings per share and return on equity,’ said CEO Team
Dave Harper. ‘It is this type of organic growth, underpinned by our po-
Highly dedicated experts from around the world form the globally mo-
sition as a driller of choice in West Africa, paired with long-term growth
bile Geodrill team that is able to teach best in class drillers and help
initiatives to expand globally, that continue to make Geodrill a compel-
them become qualified industry professionals. Geodrill has a strong
ling growth opportunity’.
emphasis on local employment and training from within. This is a major
reason for the creation of a technical training center; a comprehensive
Services state-of-the-art support base located near Kumasi, Ghana that is unique
Geodrill provides a broad selection of diverse drilling services (both ex- for Africa.
ploration and delineation) to meet the specific needs of its clients. The The company has more than 1000 employees across its operations
company has drilled a total of 1.4 million meters (4 593 175 ft) in 2020 and administration teams. Geodrill hires locally as much as possible
with hole depths ranging from 20 m (65.62 ft) all the way to 1950 m and provides extensive training and leadership opportunities to pro-
(6398 ft). These results are achieved through their complete range of mote staff from within. As a result, the company has few expatriates

GEODRILL
‘With these significant industry in employment and relies almost entirely on the extensive expertise of
their local staff.
tailwinds and favorable Geodrill is an equal opportunity employer proudly advocating for gen-
macroeconomic conditions, Geodrill der and diversity inclusion in recruitment and talent management. The
company puts a large emphasis on the fair and equal treatment of ev-
remains focused on continuing to eryone – from the directors to the candidates – regardless of their gen-
drive growth in revenue, earnings der, age, culture and ethnicity, religious beliefs or disabilities.
per share and return on equity,’ said
The hub and spoke model
CEO Dave Harper. ‘It is this type of
With a geographic footprint spread across two continents, the company
organic growth, underpinned by has established a ‘hub and spoke’ model with Ghana as the hub, and
our position as a driller of choice Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso and Mali; Egypt in North Africa; and Peru in
South America as the spokes.
in West Africa, paired with long- The facility in Ghana has a specialized CNC machining center for man-
term growth initiatives to expand ufacturing drill rods and consumables, thus reducing the need to ship
parts from out-of-country minimizing downtime and increasing ef-
globally, that continue to make ficiency. The facility is also home to the Drill Academy where Geodrill
Geodrill a compelling growth training and development programs aim to provide personnel with the
required skills and knowledge to perform drilling and maintenance to
opportunity. We expect conditions the highest international levels.
to remain strong into the beginning
of 2022 and beyond, as gold prices Safety
continue to surge, attracting The Geodrill safety procedures have been developed to meet and ex-
ceed all applicable government and client standards. By partnering
investment attention and driving with industry leaders in behavioral safety, incident investigation, work-
exploration budgets and growth.’ ers’ compensation and Occupational safety and health administration
↑ Operating to the highest international HSEQ standards

/IN FOCUS
While a lot of schools are in need, these donations will take competitive
entry schools to the next level which also means a greater opportunity
to continue to hire locally and to have home-grown technical expertise.
Furthermore, education access for the handicapped remains an issue
in Ghana and an important step is providing prosthetic limbs and spe-
cialized physiotherapy for children in need. Geodrill has been a long-
term donor of Orthopedic Training Center in Nsawam. In June 2020,
the company donated an emergency roof for the Cerebral Palsy therapy
building, which had been ruined in a storm. Every year Geodrill contrib-
utes specialty-built wheelchairs for those in need at the center as well
as general funding to continue giving movement back to children and
youth (as well as adults) so that they can go on to participate in school
and gain meaningful employment later on in life.
An innovative collaboration with Children of the Light Ghana, a holis-
tic education center, was formed in November 2020 with an environ-
mental creative - McKingtorch Creatives. Children of the Light students
were visiting the streets of Accra to read and share stories with children
↑ Geodrill’s Anwiankwanta Operations Base living on the street and became aware that many were not sleeping on
any kind of mats. Geodrill funded 120 mats that were entirely made in
(OSHA) standards, the company has built a comprehensive integrated Ghana, using recycled materials. The mats were distributed by the chil-
Health Safety and Environmental Management System. The core val- dren to other children sharing the gift of giving. These unique mats led
ues of safety and productivity are a testament to Geordill’s commitment to a further collaboration with McKingtorch and bus shelters have been
that all projects should be completed with Zero Harm to employees, commissioned out of 100% recycled plastic waste. The collection site
contractors and the environment. for plastic waste is hosted at the Geodrill Accra office.
Promoting environmental education in Ghana, Geodrill has funded
several initiatives over the past 24 months: Let’s Go Farming: a chil-
ESG focus
dren’s farming and livelihood educational TV Show in Ghana, most re-
Recently, Geodrill has been contributing a significant 2% of its total rev- cent episodes sponsored by Geodrill were August 7, 14 and 21, 2021.
enue to its ESG program. Over the past 24 months, Geodrill has hon- While these are just a sample of 2020-2021 projects Geodrill has un-
ored its Corporate social responsibility (CSR) ongoing recipients while dertaken in social and environmental aspects of its ESG program, this
developing a strategy to create a legacy for future generations and to is an impressive range of recipients, with a firm policy of non-discrimi-
respond to urgent appeals such as: nation. As much as possible, CEO Dave Harper has been sure to play an
Immediate initiatives, concerned with COVID-19 - a community-based active part in donating not only funds but committing his own time and
campaign to address urgent hygiene needs in Burkina Faso, were carried that of key personnel at Geodrill to ensure that the personal connection,
out in conjunction with Rox Gold. value and significance of the projects are emphasized.
A little girl’s emergency lifesaving surgery overseas for a rare and dis-
turbing eye cancer. 2022 and beyond
Geodrill contributed for the construction of a purified water system
for Pearl Safe Haven, the first safe house with a rehabilitation program Geordill will continue its commitment to ESG causes and particularly to
for women and children survivors of gender-based violence in West the communities where it operates throughout 2022. One of the biggest
Africa. Geodrill first undertook to drill the water hole and provided a highlights is drilling for Ghana’s first lithium mine – Atlantic Lithium.
sizeable donation for the construction works along with the Australian Furthermore, Geodrill remains bullish on its expansion on the Egyptian
High Commission to Ghana. The company also stepped up to fund the market and expects to announce a significant drilling contract in the
amount needed to complete the works, including the roof, the furniture near future and the company is also looking to expand its operations
and the fittings. Without Geodrill filling the gap to finish the building, it to the Drill & Blast market. Meanwhile, Recon Drilling will increase its
would not have been completed, and thanks to the contributions it was presence in South America through the subsidiary’s successful projects.
able to open in early 2021. ‘We expect conditions to remain strong into the beginning of 2022
In line with the Sustainable development goals of the United Nations, and beyond, as gold prices continue to surge, attracting investment
education has been a key receiver of funds, as well as employee and attention and driving exploration budgets and growth’, concluded
management time and efforts. Significant sums of 150 000 cedi (ap- Dave Harper. C
prox. AUD 35 000) per institution have been awarded to improve the
technical competence of a science laboratory, sporting and boarding For more information
facilities of three significant high schools in Ghana: Achimota in the cap- Visit: www.geodrill-gh.com
ital, Tamale in the northern part, and Mfantsipim in the Cape Coast area.

Steel-made precision
tubes for drill rods
by Steffen Zimmermann, Head of Technical Sales/Application Engineering; Sebastian Schulze, Application Engineer;
Corentin Lorc’h, Quality Manager and Pierre-Jean Marchais, Process Engineer at Mannesmann Precision Tubes
Precision tubes made of steel are widely used for ↑ New straightening machine at
Mannesmann plant in Vitry-le-
exploration or blasthole drilling. But to keep the drilling François; in the front: measurement
process running and the direction of drilling straight, to check straightness; in the back:
tubes must behave elastically under service loads. straightening operations
This means no plastic deformation is allowed to take
place to prevent drill rods from inelastic bending.
Especially for long-distance drilling, tubes must
withstand severe and harsh conditions. Besides the
wear, mainly mechanical loads stress the precision
steel tube by a combination of factors like tensile,
torsion and bending loads at the same time.
T
he engineering of drill strings needs to rameters, the heat treatment conditions and deformation - the permanent distortion that
consider the static tensile properties, the tube straightness all along the production occurs when a material is subjected to tensile,
the tube dimensions and apparent process. These production steps and their in- compressive, bending, or torsion stresses that
‘secondary factors’ like residual stresses and teractions will define the performance of drill exceed its yield strength and cause it to elon-
corresponding straightness. The manufac- rod characteristics. gate, compress, buckle, bend, or twist. This
turing process of precision steel tubes must As soon as the level of tensile residual local plastic deformation will lead to a fast
balance all these properties by adjusting the stresses exceeds a critical limit, the internal and early deviation from the planned drilling
cold deformation during the cold drawing pa- stresses will cause a premature local plastic direction and, in combination with increased

/DRILL RODS
stages of the development process. Statistical

approaches help to understand why proper-
ties may show scatter - the degree to which
repeated measurements or observations of
a quantity differ - and the significance of ev-
ery single parameter. Thus, statistics is the
key to controlling scatter of mechanical and
geometrical properties and, therefore, consti-
tutes the foundation for safe and reliable re-
sistance against fatigue of tube components
during drilling service.
Mannesmann has varied the production
steps parameters like heat treatment, drawing
or straightening. Thus, drill rod precision tubes
will release detrimental residual stresses in
one way or another depending on operations
and production parameters. At the end of the
production route, tubes will show excellent
straightness and very low residual stress levels
at the same time.
To characterize rod performance, Man-
nesmann has applied a four-point-bend-
Figure 1 - Pareto diagram to estimate single influences of production parameters ing configuration to determine the onset of
plastic deformation of the tube’s mid-body.
vibration fatigue, would potentially lead to rod in the production route guarantee the best Instead of determining an Rp0,2-level by classical
failure. Due to the trend towards being light- properties in terms of both yield and tensile tensile tests, Mannesmann follows the idea of
weight-structured, precision steel tubes have strength. Finally, precision tubes for drill rod characterization of elastic limits (see Coring
become lighter in recent years or, alternative- application are straightened to reach the best Magazine, September 2017 edition, page 16-19).
ly, already established tube dimensions have values of straightness. This process step will Figure 1 shows the Pareto diagram of differ-
been used for deeper drill holes today. In both ensure the lowest deviations from desired ent production parameters. Mainly, the tubes’
cases, tubes act closer to their limits. drilling directions. Additionally, Mannesmann dimensions, show the most effect on tube
Therefore, Mannesmann focused its devel- ensures the smoothest straightening opera- performances. But, the single effect of each
opment activities on the product-process-in- tions to guarantee the lowest residual stress parameter should be considered as well as the
teractions to ensure a well-balanced combi- levels on final tubes. interactions of different parameters and each
nation of straightness while maintaining the Especially straightening operations and their must be evaluated in detail.
lowest level of residual stress and to fulfill all interactions with applied heat treatments If the tubes’ dimension (diameter and wall
requirements regarding desired mechanical have moved into the engineering focus be- thickness) is defined bigger, stiffness and
properties. cause residual stress level and straightness bending forces will feature higher values.
are not acting fully independent from each The main reason for this is the moment of iner-
other. In particular, both properties may coun- tia of the tubes (compare Figure 1), which grows
Precision tube rapidly with the diameter and wall thickness.
teract each other. The global aim of tube pro-
manufacturing process duction is to minimize residual stresses and to
In principle, precision steel tubes are pro- increase straightness.
duced by casting billets from a blast furnace Mannesmann fulfills that by producing ‘Mannesmann has
(BF) steel mill, piercing the billets at very high precision steel tubes for drill rod appli- varied the production
temperatures and the subsequent hot rolling cations in their plant, located in Vitry-le-
of pierced blocks. Hot rolling of pierced blocks François, France. steps parameters like
comprises a dedicated stretching of length and
a dedicated reduction of the outside diameter.
heat treatment, drawing
Mannesmann Precision
The hot-rolled tubes (hollows) are handed over
Tubes’ process capability:
or straightening. Thus,
for a cold drawing process, which tightens the
dimensional tolerances of the outside diame- Design of Experiments drill rod precision tubes
ter, inside diameter, and thus wall thickness.
At the same time, the mechanical properties
& statistical analysis will release detrimental
are settled on a very homogeneous level all Mannesmann plans its experiments with De- residual stresses in one
over the axial and transverse directions of the sign of Experiment - the systematic method
rod. This is thanks to the steel grade, the plas- to determine the relationship between fac- way or another depending
tic deformation rates and all the parameters tors affecting a process and the output of on operations and
applied during the cold drawing process. Spe- that process - to analyze and lay out process
cific heat treatments judiciously positioned stabilities of productions already at the early production parameters.’
/DRILL RODS
At a first glance, the additionally investigated

parameters seem to be less important or of
the same importance. But with a closer look,
it becomes apparent that straightening opera-
tion becomes the most important parameter to
steer the desired tube performance.
Conclusions
Mannesmann has adapted its manufacturing
process to improve tube performances. By
adjusting parameters all along the processes,
tubes can be produced with differently bal-
anced values of straightness:
• 1 mm/6 m combined with residual
stresses < 120 MPa or
• 1 mm/2 m combined with residual
stresses < 100 MPa.
Mannesmann Precision Tubes invested in
the recent years in the technology for heat
treatment and straightening to install produc-
tion means at the edge of available technolo-
gies. Therefore, Mannesmann installed a new
straightening machine, including the interac-
tion of measurement techniques plus online ↑ Storage of drill rods
analysis of data to improve straightening op-
erations.
Now, the designer can choose between two
different states depending on the applied
drilling technology. Further optimizations are
achievable by choosing between different steel
grades. Mannesmann offers yield strength lev-
els ranging from 550 MPa up to 950 MPa. They
provide a broad variety of design strategies.
Additionally, higher strength grades provide ex-
cellent resistance against abrasive degradation.
If the tubes must be joined to connectors,
perfect weldability for friction-stir welding is
given for several grades.
In addition, Mannesmann has developed a
wide range of variable thickness tubes: Taylor
Drawn Tubes (TDT®) B-/N-/H-/P-sizes and
other specific designs on demand. This innova-
tive family of tubes allows a weight reduction of
up to 30% compared to the same dimension for
the standard tube. These tubes are cold-drawn,
and the same level of quality is guaranteed with ↑ Mannesmann - Taylor Drawn Tubes (TDT®): thick and thin parts of the wall
the same yield strength levels ranging from thickness and transition zone
550 MPa up to 950 MPa.
With the whole portfolio of strength level, ex-
traordinary straightness, lowest residual stress
levels, excellent wear resistance and weldabili- For more information
ty any application engineer has the freedom to Visit: www.mannesmann-precision-tubes.com/en/
design drill rod products as they prefer. C

/PRODUCT RELEASE
MK-2 Rod Feeder PATENT

PENDING
The independent rod handling system

that eliminates all hands-on steel
operations for diamond drilling
by Quentin Dulake, Global Sales Executive at Exploration Drill Masters Chile S.A.
Exploration Drill Masters (EDM) MK-2 Rod Feeder is the latest release in
rod handling technology for surface diamond drilling. The MK-2 follows
on from the original MK-1 Rod Feeder, which has been immensely popular
with well over 120 units sold since its release five years ago.
While the MK-1 unit greatly reduced manual Control Console and feeds the pulling plug adaptor, and then
handling, the MK-2 Rod Feeder eliminates it releases the alignment rollers. This complete
completely and provides other crucial ben- All functions/operations for the MK-2 Rod series of maneuvers is split into two, one with
Feeder are carried out from the control con- the joystick and the other with the push of a
efits for the overall management of the drill
sole at a safe distance. Here, simple joystick button, making it a very simple sequence for
string, productivity and safety, including a
commands are used to carry out the long running in and out with rods all day. The Plug
new five-axis gripper system that allows rods
and tedious series of consecutive maneuvers, Spinner has been carefully designed so that
to be added while drilling, hands-free.
eliminating any hands-on intervention in the there is no cross-threading or damage to the
The unit, which is designed to work with rod handling process. The Feeder Arm, Plug threads.
all top drive rigs with a main haul winch and Spinner, Dual Centre Smart Tray, Rod Shuf-
a wide range of chuck drive rigs, underwent fler, and five-axis Rod Gripper are all managed
extensive field testing on various rigs prior from this console allowing the user to store,
Rod Shuffler
to its release in April 2021. These included organize, load, unload and feed drill pipe The onboard Rod Shuffler is mounted on a
UDR1200/DE880, DE710, LF90, LF230 and of and casing in 3 m (10 ft), 6 m (20 ft) and 9 m gantry system at the rear of the Rod Feeder
course EDM’s own rigs. (30 ft) lengths. This completely removes any and has multiple functions including handling
Nigel Smith, EDM’s General Manager, com- requirement for a person in the danger zone/ the rods/core tube to/from the Centre Smart
ments on the design ethos behind the MK-2: line of fire. Tray and loading/unloading of the rods from
‘As a manufacturer, we feel a huge responsibil- The control system interface includes a any side of the sloop. With a reach of 1.6 m
ity to continue to develop innovative solutions large display screen that allows the user to (≈ 5.25 ft) from either side of the Rod Feeder
that keep drill crews safe, but it is important switch between multiple screens to control and 1.5 m (≈ 4.9 ft) of vertical travel, it allows
to make sure this technology is accessible to each function with ease. It features multiple the user to fine tune the positioning of the
everyone, regardless of their machines. The camera views of the Rod Shuffler magnets rods, move the core tube from the centre tray
to aid with aligning the rods, and another of to the core station, and to continue to stack
MK-2 Rod Feeder is a “plug and play” instant
the Centre Smart Tray. There is also a System rods to the side of the Rod Feeder when the
safety solution. It’s compatible with multiple
Diagnostics Screen for troubleshooting and sloop is full.
drill rigs meaning that drilling contractors
can bring their existing fleet up to the high- checking various parameters of the unit from
the safety of the console. MK-2 Rod Feeder
est standards of safety very quickly, keeping
their drill crews safe and offering their clients configurations
a safer service without having to invest in new Automated Plug Spinner
The MK-2 can be supplied in two different con-
machines.’ The Plug Spinner receives, presents, connects figurations. One has low-profile positioning
The MK-2 Rod Feeder has been designed and disconnects the haul plug. After receiving tracks to aid the positioning of the unit behind
with a user-friendly control system and in a the haul plug in a vertical position, the spinner the rig on the drill site. This is primarily for drill
way that is simple to service and maintain in clamps it, rotates 180°, flips it up into a hor- sites where access to the drill pad is limited.
the field, allowing all drilling contractors to izontal position and then moves the pulling The other has no tracks, which is ideal for larg-
transition to hands-free diamond drilling as plug bull nose into the rod waiting in the Cen- er sites with good access where the Rod Feed-
seamlessly as possible. tre Smart Tray. It then spins the pulling plug er can be positioned behind the drill with the
KEY FEATURES AND BENEFITS OF MK-2 ROD FEEDER SYSTEM

Automated Plug Spinner removing all hands-on-steel intervention when coupling/uncoupling drill rods.
Five-axis Rod Gripper for feeding rods into the mast while drilling.
Can work with all top drive rigs with a main winch and selected chuck drive machines.
Compatible with most machines with little or no modification required.
Will safely pull/run rods in both 6 m (20 ft) and 9 m (30 ft) lengths.
Works on all mast angles from 45ᵒ-90ᵒ.
Removes manual handling of rods, barrel assemblies and core tubes.
Onboard storage of up to 2000 m (6000 ft) N+ pipe or equivalent in other sizes.
Positioning tracks for easy set up behind the rig on drill pads with limited space.
Rod shuffler with magnetic jaws for rod shuffling/loading/unloading rods, barrels and core tubes.
Ability to load rods from either side of Rod Feeder with the skewing rod shuffler for when extra rods are required.
Fits into a 40 ft (≈ 12.2 m) high cube container for international shipping.
Double Centre Smart Tray Assembly with 3 m (10 ft) telescopic action making it compatible to any mast geometry.
Works in unison with roller, spinner jaws and shuffler to manage overall rod and tube storage.
Tethered Control console allowing the operator to work from a safe zone clear of the line of fire. ↑ MK-2 Rod Feeder’s Control Console
Multiple cameras allowing safe and seamless remote operation.
Optional Safety Lockouts with unique and integrated key codes that are nearly impossible to circumvent.

/PRODUCT RELEASE
8 1 2
Dual Centre Smart Tray with Skewable Rod Shuffler with three simple Self Contained
multiple intelligent functions perpendicular 3D actions for taking rods Power Unit
designed for complete flexibility to and from the Centre Smart Tray and with transport
when working with the Shuffler removing core tube/rods from Rod Feeder and working
and Automated Plug Spinner to and from side storage positions
combined
with Folding
Tail Gate/Stop
allow compact
transport
without
sacrificing 9 m
(30 ft) length
operation
7
Jackout Jacklegs
for self loading on
Standard Flatbed
Trailers
3
Freestanding
and self
propelled
configurations
6
Feeder Arm and 5-Axis
Rod Gripper facilitates 5 4
3, 6 and 9 m length rod Automated Plug assist Control panel remotely
handling to and from spinner for inserting/ mounted removing the
drill operations removing haul plug during operator from the hazards of
tripping operations drill rod handling operations
support vehicle. Both configurations have been designed to fit inside

a 40 ft (≈ 12.2 m) shipping container and have jack legs that extend up
and out allowing them to be easily loaded onto a flatbed truck/trailer For more information
for transportation. Please visit:
www.explorationdrillmasters.com
The future
EDM has always strived to deliver innovative safety solutions for the or contact EDM at:
exploration drilling industry and the MK-2 Rod Feeder ticks a lot of the info@explorationdrillmasters.com
boxes for drilling contractors who are looking for a safe diamond rod
handling system that can be integrated into their current fleet any-
where in the world. With multiple units out working already and over
20 more currently in production for Latin America, Australia, and West
Africa, EDM have set up a new manufacturing facility solely to produce
the MK-2 Rod Feeders in anticipation of the increased demand. C

REGISTER AT pdac.ca/convention #PDAC2022
JUNE 13 -15
IN PERSON
TORONTO, CANADA
JUNE 28 -29
ONLINE
ANYWHERE
Access top-quality
programming
Reconnect with a
diverse community
of exhibitors
Gain insight from

industry experts
Valuable networking
opportunities
/TECHNICAL MATERIAL
A technical note
on dogleg severity
by Dag Billger, Owner & Business Manager and Duncan McLeod, Owner & Product Manager at Inertial Sensing
In recent years, we have received an increasing number of questions concerning

how dogleg severity (DLS) is defined, why it does not look smooth in plots, and if
it can be used as a survey quality assurance parameter. We have also noted that
the oil and gas industry is considering for some applications an alternative to the
minimum curvature method for calculating borehole coordinates from survey angles.
This alternative method is based on splines. Here we give a review of the standard
minimum curvature method for calculating borehole coordinates and DLS, introduce
the spline method and consider if DLS can be used as a good quality measure.
Minimum curvature method The minimum curvature method assumes that the path of a borehole
between two consecutive survey stations can be approximated by a cir-
The minimum curvature method has been accepted as a standard cular arc segment (see Figure 1).
method for borehole trajectory representation since the mid-80s. It
The arc segment has radius R and its course length is denoted S12,
was introduced by C.M. Mason and H.L. Taylor1, however W.A. Zaremba
which corresponds to the survey station interval. The inclinations and
is reported to have derived the method independently2. It is today the
azimuths at the start and end of the arc segment are denoted I1, I2 and
de facto industry standard method for calculating borehole coordinates
from survey angles, regardless of the type of survey tool. This article A1, A2, respectively. These are all known from depth readings and survey
mainly follows the notation of Sawaryn and Thorogood3. station angles.
It should be noted that there are other borehole coordinate interpola- The parameters in Figure 1 are:
tion methods, such as the tangential method, the balanced tangential • t1 and t2 survey station tangent vectors
method, the average angle method, and the radius of curvature method. • β subtended arc segment angle
Some of the older ones are easier to implement with respect to manu- • Δr position change vector
al computation, but after the introduction of modern microprocessors • R radius of curvature
minimum curvature has become the dominant method. • n12 normal unit vector to arc segment plane
• b1 and b2 bi-normal unit vectors
With knowledge of the station interval S12, as well as the inclination
and azimuth at the start and end of the arc segment, it is possible to
compute the change in coordinates from one station to the next. Ac-
cording to Sawaryn and Thorogood, it can be shown that the coordinate
difference is given by the formula:
In the formula above, the tangent vectors at survey Stations 1 and 2

and the subtended angle β are all derived from the station inclination
and azimuth angles. With knowledge of the start coordinates at the col-
lar of the hole, the minimum curvature method represents the borehole
path as a series of piecewise continuous circular arc segments. Each
Figure 1 - The borehole path between two consecutive survey station coordinate is computed from the previous until the end-of-hole
stations is approximated by a circular arc
station is reached.

Dogleg severity to accurately identify very small variations in the curvature of the drill
string over short distances, which could be enough to fracture it.
DLS is a measure of the curvature of a borehole. It is usually measured in Micro-dogleg surveys are conducted with a high-resolution survey of
units of degrees per 30 m or 100 ft. It originates from directional drilling the drill string with a typical station interval being 0.5 m (1.64 ft). To
in the petroleum industry, and it has seen increasing use in mining, as maintain reasonable survey time, these surveys are done using a wire-
directional drilling has become more common. DLS is not an inde- line with a depth encoder and running a fast continuous gyro survey.
pendently measured data value. It is calculated from the surveyed incli- The method uses spline curve interpolation which guarantees the
nations, azimuths, and station intervals. The DLS is a byproduct of min- requirements on the continuous differentiability of the tangent vector.
imum curvature interpolation, and the formula is given as: This produces a continuous estimate of the DLS and so, a more accu-
rate measure of borehole curvature. These added conditions have the
effect that the calculated position and curvature values of a station
will depend on the neighboring stations. This contrasts with minimum
curvature where any given survey station only depends on the previous
where the subtended angle β is in degrees. It can be shown that the station.
DLS between two stations is given by the equation: The spline curve method is based on representing the tangent vector
as a third-degree vector polynomial over each survey interval. Borehole
coordinates are found by integrating the tangent along the borehole
path. The curvature is computed by differentiating the tangent vector
along the borehole path and computing the length of the resulting
derivative:
Thus, the DLS depends not only on the station to station change in
azimuth, but also on the change in inclination and the actual inclination
at the start and end of the current arc segment. There is also a division
by the station interval which means that the DLS for a given survey will
depend on the chosen resolution, how dense or coarse survey intervals The use of spline curve interpolation involves some matrix algebra
are being used. which, although straightforward to apply, requires numerical imple-
The arc segments, which are used to approximate the borehole path mentation and this is not presented here.
are only piecewise continuous, since the circular arc used between each It should be noted that spline curve interpolation is currently not an
station has a different radius. This means that the DLS values estimated accepted standard method and is mainly used in special applications. It
by minimum curvature do not represent a continuous function of sta- is however interesting to investigate both as a novelty and for reasons
tion depth. So, a typical plot of DLS as a function of depth is usually very of comparison.
‘choppy’ and not smooth, even though we know that most boreholes
have a smooth variation.
Coordinate comparison
It is interesting to note that DLS is not defined at a station, but be-
tween stations. Strictly speaking, it has no value at a station! But by con- The new spline curve method was implemented as part of Inertial Sens-
vention, the value from either the left or right arc of the station is used. ing’s internal development platform and compared to the minimum
curvature method for different types of surveys. For this article, one
survey was chosen as an example from continuous TwinGyro surveys of
Spline curve method a test well in Texas, US5 with a depth of 1400 ft (426.72 m). This hole was
To overcome these issues with the minimum curvature method, drilled specifically for gyro tests and begins at a vertical angle, but soon
M. Abughaban et. al.4 introduced an interpolation method where the rises sharply to reach an inclination of 20° (see Figure 2).
tangent vector is continuously differentiable to obtain a more accu- The reference data is available with 2 ft (0.61 m) station intervals
rate estimate of borehole curvature. This was motivated in the petro- from high-density continuous surveys. The minimum curvature and
leum industry for so-called micro-dogleg surveys. Here it is required spline methods were applied to the survey data using different station-
Figure 3 - Station-to-station distance error for minimum

Figure 2 - MSE Test Well Conroe, Texas, US curvature versus spline curves

/TECHNICAL MATERIAL
intervals. The end of hole coordinate differences between the two Conclusion
methods were computed (Figure 3).
Both minimum curvature and spline interpolation give coordinate val- Fundamentally, both methods find the DLS by numerical differentia-
tion, which by its nature will always give rise to estimation errors when
ues which are in very good agreement and differ only at the sub-milli-
applying either method to survey data. Ultimately, neither is a perfect
meter level. The errors will increase when using data over coarser sur-
model of how a drill string bends.
vey intervals.
The two methods show good agreement on position accuracy. But it
is our view that the minimum curvature method is to be preferred as it
DLS comparison provides an analytical description which is easier to analyze mathemat-
ically. This is important when doing an analysis of error models and tool
The dogleg severity was computed for the same reference survey used performance.
in the previous section. Plotting these using high-density station inter- The minimum curvature has the issues in that the curvature is only ap-
vals of 2 ft (0.61 m) shows good agreement (Figure 4). proximated in piecewise steps and does not define the DLS at a station.
As a second example, the same data was studied using a coarser sub- The spline curve method avoids this, but it might misrepresent the
set of station intervals of 16 ft (4.88 m) (Figure 5). data points between the survey stations. The sharper peaks between
The minimum curvature is a choppy stepwise function between sta- stations may unknowingly give rise to inaccuracies. But at the stations,
tions. The spline method provides a continuous measure of the cur- the spline method DLS values are usually accurate.
vature but naturally tends to appear to under- and overshoot the cor- In most cases, it is likely better to use minimum curvature to calculate
responding minimum curvature values especially for coarser survey the DLS since this gives errors that are confined to each segment, not
intervals. depending on any additional neighboring points. Some specialized situ-
Important to note is that the choice of survey interval has a clear im- ations may still call for the use of the spline method.
pact on the overall DLS values, with the exact values changing notice- This, along with other recent developments, has shown that high-res-
ably as the station interval changes. olution continuous surveys really are necessary for getting the best re-
sults in terms of DLS and position information of any borehole. C
DLS as a quality flag References & resources

1 ‘A Systematic Approach to Well Surveying Calculations’, C.M. Mason and
When considering the use of DLS as a quality parameter, one needs to H.L. Taylor, SPE84246, SPEJ, June 1971.
understand that a suitable flag needs to represent an invariant thresh- 2 ‘Directional Survey by the Circular-Arc Method’, W.A. Zaremba, SPEJ,
old which can be used in a repeatable way. It should be clear that DLS February 1973.
is not suitable as a threshold for survey azimuth errors because a DLS 3 ‘A compendium of directional calculations based on the minimum
threshold would have to vary with inclination, which is far from ideal in curvature method’, S.J. Sawaryn and J.L. Thorogood, SPE Drilling &
practice. Since it also depends on the inclination change and the survey Completion, March 2005.
station interval, then a given threshold would not apply to different- 4 ‘Advanced Trajectory Computational Model Improves Calculated Borehole
ly run surveys of the same hole. DLS cannot provide a general quality Positioning, Tortuosity and Rugosity’, M. Abughaban et. al, SPE-178796-
threshold which can be reliably used for all types of coring borehole MS, 2016.
profiles. 5 ‘A comparison between discrete and continuous borehole deviation gyro
surveys using the TwinGyro’, D. Billger and D. McLeod, AIMMGM XXXIII
However, DLS is still a good visual indicator to identify stations with
International Mining Convention in Acapulco, Mexico, October 2019.
potential azimuth errors when conducting quality checks of survey
data. Yet, it is not suitable as an accurate and reliable measure to be
used as a survey quality warning flag for an automated quality control For more information
system. In other words, it can give a rough guide of potential problems, Visit: www.inertialsensing.com
but care is needed to avoid discarding good data.
Figure - 4 Dogleg severity of MSE Test Well Conroe, Texas. Figure 5 - Dogleg severity of MSE Test Well Conroe, Texas.
Station interval 2 ft (0.61 m). Station interval 16 ft (4.88 m).

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From Russia
with core strength:
RS-90 drill rig manufactured
by Rusmining Export
by Rusmining Export Press Office
The revenue from mining operations After the break-up of the Soviet Union and, therefore, the discontinu-
is usually a large part of any country’s ation of the domestic production of exploration equipment, only im-
ported drills were used for these purposes over the last decades. The
budget. Therefore, the top priority task
sanctions against the Russian Federation led to extremely long deliv-
is reprocessing and building up the
eries from foreign partners and importing substitutes required mas-
mineral resources base. Exploration of sive effort. A number of manufacturers stopped delivering exploration
new deposits, as well as their commercial equipment altogether. This situation motivated the Rusmining Export
development, requires innovative drilling (RME) team to create its own action plan. Designers and engineers were
equipment. engaged to work on the development of in-house drill rigs by analyzing

/PRODUCT REVIEW: DRILL RIGS
↑ Rusmining Export’s workshop
the specification of foreign products. The resulting drill rig - RS-90 – not Large subsoil users in Russia are setting records on this equipment.
only covers but exceeds the needs of our customers. For example, in July 2020, OGK Group achieved the best result among
Serial production of RS-90 has begun in the Khabarovsk Service Desk. Russian diamond core drilling contractors, having performed 4735 m
RS-90 drill depth is 480 m (1575 ft) using P-size rods, 725 m (2380 ft) (≈ 15 550 ft) of H-size drilling (95.6 mm) with one drill rig in just one
with H-size, 1080 m (3550 ft) with N-size, and 1400 m (4600 ft) in B-size month. RS-90 is also efficiently utilized both in Yakutia, Russia at critical
with a drilling angle of 45-90 degrees. The basic specification is focused low temperatures, often below −35°C (−31°F), as well as in the arid des-
on high efficiency, reliability and safety. Drill rig components are made ert-like temperatures by our partners in Uzbekistan.
of high-quality steel. Most of the drill frame elements under excessive RME is not slowing down when it comes to manufacturing new
stress are reinforced. A special coating protects the equipment from equipment. This summer the new RS-90D was unveiled. It is optionally
corrosion, increasing the drill lifespan twice compared to similar equip- track-mounted and geared for operation in high ambient temperatures.
ment. The main components are supplied by Canadian partners. The The new RU-75 range is designed to work in underground mines. It can
engine in RS-90 from the famous American manufacturer Cummins - be optionally equipped with an explosion-proof design and different
model QSB 6.7 - fully meets the high standards, used in production. options of feed frames. Also, this rig can drill from surface if the power
Due to a long analysis of competitors and feedback from customers, pack is replaced with an internal combustion engine. Simultaneously,
drillers, and those who work directly with the equipment, the design- the RME design bureau is working on RS-230 which has the capacity to
ers have included significant improvements to the RS-90 drill rig. They
drill more than 3400 m (≈ 11 200 ft).
improved the rotation unit lubrication system; modified the hydraulic
The company also actively produces high-quality spare parts and tools
chuck to prevent drilling fluid from getting into the gearbox through the
for most of the famous exploration drilling rigs. RME provides prompt
top spindle seals; increased the space between the hydraulic tank and
and good service due to the highly organized drill rigs spare parts ware-
the control panel for better access to service the hydraulic pumps and
house. Having readily available Russian-made components allows for
valves; and installed the additional hydraulic oil filters. Furthermore,
fast repairs and the Service Desk specialists are ready to visit any drill
each RS-90 rig can be adapted to the specific operating conditions of
each customer. rig site to conduct troubleshooting.
RME has been proving to its partners and competitors that Russian RME operates in the drilling equipment market since 2019. Hav-
reliable equipment contributes to reducing costs and maximizing pro- ing accumulated experience, highly-qualified employees and stable
ductivity. The results speak for themselves. RME is not just reaching the business relations, besides equipment manufacturing, RME offers to
production target but overachieving it. For the last two years, RS-90 is its customers prompt and proper performance of orders on mutually
widely used at the largest deposits not only in Russia, but also overseas. beneficial terms. C
To date, more than 56 drill rigs have been sold. RME equipment, tools
and spare parts are exported to Latin America, Africa, the Philippines
and Malaysia. Large companies benefit from buying Russian drill rigs For more information
because every customer considers three things: delivery time, reliability Visit: www.rusminingexport.ru
and price.

Meet MAX:
The 8000 lb beast that drills
up to 3100 meters N-size
by Rishi Budshah, CMO at Hydracore Drills Ltd.
The story about HC5000max (Max) started when one of our existing customers
requested a deep hole core drill that was truly heli-portable, meaning lifts under
2000 lb (907 kg). This request aligned with our market research showing that
more holes were being drilled beyond 2000 m (6562 ft) and an increase in projects
demanding core in H- and P-size. This highlighted the gap in the portable drill
category for purpose-built deep hole drill rigs. Hydracore’s business philosophy is to
challenge the status quo and this opportunity was exactly what was needed to make
a difference while providing renewed value to our customers. Hydracore returned
to the drawing board and embarked on designing a ‘Max’ version of the HC5000.
The design process
Increasing the capacity of the drill was our main objective, however not an easy task. The chal-
lenge was to maintain the portability of the drill in terms of the light weight and small footprint;
but at the same time achieve never seen before power and pullback force. A thorough analysis of
the entire structure and circuits was required.
Hydraulic powerpack
We decided to increase the pressure of the hydraulic system to achieve higher available hy-
draulic horsepower. To back this up we increased the overall engine horsepower from 206 hp
to 260 hp. The hydraulic pumps were changed out for high pressure piston pumps which also
increased efficiency.
↑ Hydraulic Powerpack and the Drill Module
Drill head
The increase in system pressure gave us the increase in available torque needed for deep hole
drilling. Many drills are advertised with incredible torque numbers, but these are only available in
RPM ranges that are inefficient for drilling. Max’s drill design focused on optimizing the torque at
drilling speeds of 500-1350 RPM. This directly increases the footage per shift.
The HC5000max drill head follows Hydracore’s proven design and does not require a gearbox.
Its large bent axis variable displacement hydraulic motor has sufficient range for all drilling speeds
and is controlled by an infinitely variable control knob. The Hydraulic motors last for five to ten
years and are easily replaced in the field in one to two hours. This means less downtime and
more drilling.
In a chuck type drill head, large diameter bearings are required to accommodate the drill rods to
pass through the center of the main spindle. With large bearings comes a great deal of friction and
therefore the power you could use for drilling is wasted producing heat.

‘Hydracore’s business
philosophy is to challenge
the status quo and this
opportunity was exactly
what was needed to
make a difference while
providing renewed value
to our customers.’
↑ Hydraulic Powerpack and the Drill Module
Through a careful design process, we have optimized the bearings on In some areas it is permissible to have small roads with minimal per-
HC5000max to handle both the high speeds and high loads without cre- mitting, in this case using the tracked carrier might be best. Equipped
ating excess heat, there are only three bearings in the entire head. The with a picker crane, the vehicle makes for safe and efficient moves and
reduction in heat and lack of gears and chains means we have eliminat- the drill can be moved in two trips. The vehicle with a picker crane also
ed the need for oil, lubrication pumps, filters and radiators. A couple of doubles up to move other site supplies. The time saved in the permit
shots of grease daily is all that is required to have a cool running head. process and the reduced cost/time in making trails as compared to
This is one way our customers save money on their maintenance costs. roads allows you to drill sooner, invest less into infrastructure and has
a greatly reduced environmental impact. These abilities sum up to a sig-
nificant advantage over others in the bidding process.
Chuck
A drill’s pullback capacity is only as strong as its weakest link. The chuck Foot clamp
holding capacity was reviewed and upgraded to 70 000 lb (31 750 kg).
We were able to achieve this with a bolt on design that included a While torque and pullback were the parameters under scrutiny, safety
new set of stronger springs. This upgrade kit will fit on all the previous must always be a priority in any equipment design. As the drill was going
Hydracore P Heads. to be used for P-size core, running casing below the drill head would be
required. To eliminate the inherent dangers of pipe wrenches on the drill
string a ‘Double Breakout’ foot clamp was designed. This foot clamp has
Feed frame and pullback force two sets of independent jaws with the upper having controls to function
HC5000max’s feed frame is of simple, strong and compact design. The as a hydraulic wrench.
two side-mounted cylinders combined offer a market-leading 70 000 lb Foot clamp jaws on most drills are replaced to accommodate the var-
(31 750 kg) of pullback force and have a 72 in (183 cm) stroke. The feed ious sizes of drill rods, e.g., from a B- to P-size. The changeover time to
frame looks similar to the design on the HC5000, but the steel is twice swap the jaws ranges from 15 to 20 minutes. You are then also required
as thick, and hand-selected by reviewing mill certifications. Using Finite to inventory multiple jaw sizes and the spares to back them up. The foot
Element Analysis (FEA) each component of the drill has been optimized clamp on HC5000max will hold B rod to PW casing with the same stan-
in this same manner for strength and weight. A lightweight mast is pro- dard carbide-tipped jaws, therefore, no jaw changes are required, and
vided for the wireline cable and allows for pulling 20 ft (6 m) rods. parts inventory is kept to a minimum.
It is common in the industry for foot clamp jaws to only move 1/8th
of an inch (3.18 mm); this results in the rods rubbing on the jaws and
Mobility
damaging them. In this case a very tight-fitting steady bearing must be
The light weight and small size of the HC5000max allow for mobilizing used to center the rods; it must be removed whenever the core barrel
with a helicopter or a small, tracked carrier. The 8000 lb (3629 kg) total is pulled.
weight is moved in five lifts with an A-Star/Airbus AS350 helicopter. This The foot clamp jaws on the HC5000max can move up to 1 in (25.4 mm);
reduces safety risks, decreases mobilization time and at USD 2500/hr+, there is sufficient clearance between the rod and the jaws eliminating
it saves considerable money on helicopter rental. the chance of rubbing. This clearance also allows the steady bearing to

remain in place during all drilling operations, including when pulling the
core barrel. These design features save you both time and wear and tear.
Rather than using steel springs which have a limited life to provide
the foot clamp clamping force, HC5000max’s foot clamp is closed by
a nitrogen gas accumulator. Using nitrogen gas is much more efficient
compared to steel springs. The foot clamp closes automatically when
the machine is shut down, ensuring a fail-safe operation and avoiding
any loss of drill rods.
The resulting impact

The beast operates at more than 260 hp, depending upon your engine
choice, providing a massive 233 hp to the drill head and drills up to
3100 m N-size (10 171 ft). Max comes with an impressive pullback force
of 70 000 lb (31 750 kg) and weighs a mere 8000 lb (3629 kg). The fi-
nal increase in weight was minimal, therefore the mobility and versatile
character of the machine were maintained. There is nothing in the core
drilling industry that can come even close to it. HC5000max offers the
highest power to weight ratio available in the industry, it was designed
to be light yet tough, matching and exceeding the specifications of drills
four to five times its size. C ↑ Designed for safety, Double Breakout Foot Clamp
For more information

Visit: www.hydracore.com
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/COMPANY EXPANSION
Explomin’s global
expansion plan
by Peggy Silva Mayser, Commercial Manager at Explomin Perforaciones

Throughout the 20
years of its existence,
Explomin has proven
that business know-how
is not enough to achieve
success. Although the
most important ingredients
are the commitment and
shared vision of people,
their energy made a
winning formula in order
for Explomin to have a
remarkable growth.
N
ormally, it is a great challenge to
operate 24 projects simultaneously.
The task becomes even harder with
the huge variety of extreme conditions: from
the Colombian jungle with temperatures up
to 40°C (104°F) to the Chilean and Peruvian
Andes with altitudes reaching over 5000 m
(16 404 ft) above sea level. On top of that, in
2021 the COVID-19 pandemic severely affect-
ed South America and thus forced Explomin to
discover new ways to operate under very diffi-
cult conditions and still be able to succeed on
every project worldwide. Growing regardless
of the tough scenarios, just proves the com-
pany’s resilience and capability to perform at
their best even under high pressure.
Now, Explomin’s expansion plan has targeted
new continents. After establishing a solid po-
sition in Latin America, its next growth phases
have led the company to new projects in Eu-
rope and North America.
The first project of this plan is located in
Spain (Iberian Pyrite Belt), which is going to
be considered as the hub of the European/Af-
rican operations of the company. From there
Explomin is perfectly positioned to serve oth-
er countries such as Portugal and Morocco.
Expanding even further during the first quar-
ter of 2022, the company is now performing
diamond drilling, RC drilling, hydrogeological,
geotechnical and directional drilling, and is
also promoting their other division of mining
solutions, providing a whole integrated ser-
↑ Explomin Perforaciones’ drill site in Spain
vice line.

/COMPANY EXPANSION
Part of the company’s global positioning strategy is to combine the Eu- All of these important strengths are confirmed by Explomin’s position
ropean drilling knowledge with the Latin American know-how strength- in the prestigious Worldwide Drilling Rankings - 8th for drilled meters;
ening their multicultural expertise, achieving a worldwide rotation of
11th for sales volume; and 10th for drill rigs fleet - making it one of the
skilled and expert workforce, thus improving their service quality and
World Top 10 drilling companies.
safety standards. It is important to mention that Explomin is certified as
a ‘Great Place to Work’ - an honor achieved thanks to their own employ- This ambitious growth plan is happening simultaneously in Europe
ees, which motivates them to expand this great work environment to all and North America, setting an important milestone in Explomin’s prom-
of its operations around the globe. ising future. Explomin is glad to tell the story of its impressive journey
Among other expansion strategies, Explomin will focus on its
and is looking forward to sharing its next steps. C
strengths, such as their award-winning safety and operation standards,
which stand out among other competitors in the Latin American region.
These strict standards guarantee a safer work environment for the per-
sonnel as well as efficient drilling and results. Additionally, the fact that
For more information
Explomin’s state-of-the-art machinery, which can execute projects in
Visit: www.explomin.com/en/
timely manner and with outstanding results, is located in Europe adds a
major leverage, since the manufacturers are closer and can deliver new
equipment in less time, allowing to renew the fleet more frequently.
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Ad_Di-Corp_Half-Page_CoringMag_2021-12.indd 1 11/12/2021 5:33:53 PM

Exploration
Mining
Geology
In this issue:
Q&A from the experts:

In conversation with Dr Benedikt Steiner,
Director at XPLORE GLOBAL Ltd.
Rupert Resources:
The benefits of aggressive drilling
Gold fever in Guyana

by Ian Foreman, Principal
at Foremost Corporate Services
/Q&A FROM THE EXPERTS
In conversation with
Dr Benedikt
FROM
THE EXPERTS
Steiner
Dr Benedikt Steiner graduated from the University of
Tübingen, Germany with a ‘Vordiplom’ (pre-diploma)
in Geology in 2007, which was promptly followed by a
Master of Science degree from Imperial College London,
and subsequently a PhD focusing on the use of stream
sediment geochemistry and automated mineralogy
Dr Benedikt Steiner in the exploration of Lithium Cesium Tantalum
Director at (LCT) pegmatites at the University of Exeter, UK.
XPLORE GLOBAL Ltd.
In his professional life, Dr Steiner started his career with
Rio Tinto in both Namibia and Zambia exploring for
Uranium and Copper. Since 2016, Benedikt has worked as
Timothy Strong: How did you decide to
pursue a career in Exploration Geology? a lecturer and a senior lecturer in exploration and mining
Was it something that you had planned or geology at the prestigious Camborne School of Mines
something that came to you after gradu- in the UK. Alongside his teaching duties, he operates a
ating with your BSc?
consulting firm, Xplore Global Ltd., where he provides
Dr Benedikt Steiner: I have always had the support and strategy insight to the exploration industry.
desire to apply my knowledge to real-life and
industrial applications, so pure geological
science was not the direction I wanted to fol-
low. After spending a year in the oil and gas
TS: You are actively involved in educating apparent that a significant amount of geolo-
industry, I realized that the only way to con-
the future generation of exploration and gy graduates do seek office-based roles after
duct industrial fieldwork, and to have actual
mining geologists, what trends have you or within three years of graduation, or leave
‘facetime’ with rocks in different geological the industry altogether. With an aging work-
seen in terms of their career aspirations?
settings, is to work in mineral exploration and force in mining and mineral exploration, this
Are less people willing to work overseas?
mining. will have an impact on the availability of ex-
BS: Compared to the 2000s when I gradu- perienced exploration and mining geologists
TS: You split your time between academia
ated from University, and most graduates down the line.
and industry, which one appeals more to
sought work overseas, particularly in Africa, I
you and why? TS: With a post-COVID-19 boom in the
noticed a reversing trend over the last five to
BS: I am an exploration geologist and I enjoy seven years. Whilst graduates are still keen mining industry, there has been a con-
working on industry projects, particularly if to work in Australia, Scandinavia and North siderable labor shortage, have you seen
they involve grassroots exploration in remote America, due to a better work-life balance and a decrease in student enrolment on your
geology courses?
environments. However, I see myself at the other available amenities, such as being able
interface between academia and industry, to do plenty of computer-based work, I have BS: Across the UK and Europe, we noticed
passing on my knowledge and therefore pre- observed a decreasing willingness to work in a general decrease in student enrolment
paring younger geologists for a future career remote and challenging areas overseas, may on undergraduate geology courses in the
in mining. that be Africa, Asia or other locations. It is also mid-late 2010s, which was largely due to a

demographic shift. However, this has now re- geologists should strive to find employ- a better work-life balance. It does make a dif-
bounded, and we have up to 40 undergradu- ment in top tier mining companies? ference if you sit in an isolated jungle camp for
ate students each year on the geology courses. several weeks, or if you can take an afternoon
BS: Working for a multinational Tier 1 mining
My two MSc programs in Mining and Ex- off and climb a fjord or a glacier in Norway.
ploration Geology have a consistent intake of
company after graduation has really helped
me to find my feet in the mining industry. TS: What has been the most fascinating
50-60 students each year from across the UK,
Not only was it a great experience to work on project you have worked on? Why?
Europe and other parts of the world. Young
graduates see the benefit of obtaining prac- large, multi-commodity projects around Af-
BS: I have been involved with regional and
tical education that facilitates a career start rica, but the ability to understand the bigger camp-scale exploration in Rwanda (Cen-
in mining. picture of mining operations and how mineral tral-East Africa) for several years now. What
exploration fits in the mining value chain was makes this exciting is the requirement to con-
TS: The Camborne School of Mines (Uni- very eye-opening. I believe that my past em- duct exploration from scratch as most infor-
versity of Exeter) recently paused recruit- ployment with Rio Tinto shaped my following mation and knowledge date back to the colo-
ment on their BEng Mining Engineering career and helped me to develop into the geol- nial period and the 1970s when a large UNDP
program. What ramifications, if any, does ogist I am today. So, yes, I think that young ge- (United Nations Development Program) was
this have for the industry? ologists should aim to find employment in top completed to generate regional data. Based
BS: Unfortunately, the well-known and re- tier mining companies, at least for a few years, on this historic work and recent academic re-
spected BEng Mining Engineering program, in order to learn the ropes and appreciate the search by Belgian scientists, I organized and
unique in the UK, was paused in 2021. How- role of geologists in the mining industry. ran regional exploration surveys for battery
ever, there are currently exciting plans to and technology metals to delineate new areas
develop and offer a degree apprenticeship of interest for the Rwandan government and
course in Mining Engineering, which will allow private companies. I was fortunate to work
students to work in mining companies and with a team of Rwandan, South African and
gain their BSc Mining Engineering degree at ‘Whilst I am and have Russian geologists who made these projects
the same time. In any case, mining engineers a success.
been involved with
are in great demand, but there is only a limited TS: You have worked in Vosges Moun-
amount of universities left offering a relevant projects in (sub)tropical tains, northeastern France. Tell us more
practical course. This will leave the industry
to seek engineers from different backgrounds
environments for a long about the project and the outcomes.
(e.g. chemical or mechanical engineering) who time, I think that working BS: The Vosges Mountains form part of the
then have to be trained up, at the expense of Variscan Orogenic and Metallogenic Belt and
time and budgets.
in Nordic countries, i.e. therefore are conceptually prospective for
Scandinavia and Canada, lithium, tin and tungsten mineralization. How-
TS: You are an advocate for teaching ge- ever, the last comprehensive exploration sur-
ology students and professionals across offers a better work-life veys were conducted in the 1980s. My work
the world, including a course on orogenic involved the collection of stream sediment
gold exploration at the University of Guy-
balance. It does make a
samples across a 300 km2 (115.8 mi2) large
ana. Why is continued learning important difference if you sit in an area, and the analysis of these samples using
to all levels of geoscientists? modern analytical instrumentation, including
isolated jungle camp for the use of automated mineralogy. The project
BS: The simple answer to this is: You never
cease learning. No one can be an expert in all several weeks, or if you led to the delineation of new occurrences of
tantalum, lithium and tin mineralization in the
areas of geosciences, and in order to develop can take an afternoon project area, which were unknown and not de-
your career into either technical or managerial
roles, you will have to upskill. It is also man- off and climb a fjord or scribed before, therefore providing a modern
datory for registered and chartered geologists approach to re-evaluating a part of a metal-
a glacier in Norway.’ logenic belt extending from North America to
to maintain a healthy CPD (Continuous Pro-
fessional Development) record demonstrat- Europe.
ing an annual progression of skill sets and TS: You are considered an expert in the
experience. You should not forget, however, area of LCT pegmatite exploration, tell us
that CPD is not just about attending class- why these deposits are important.
room-based courses. CPD can involve many TS: You have worked all over Europe, Asia
activities, such as mentoring, learning foreign and Africa, which country has been your BS: LCT pegmatites are host to ‘critical metals’
languages, progressing a certain task in your favorite and why? and ‘battery metals’, and in light of emerging
job, and watching YouTube videos and webi- EV (Electric Vehicle) developments, have been
BS: This is rather challenging to answer as I the focus of exploration for at least ten years.
nars, which really have led to a rise in online
enjoyed working on many projects around the Whilst lithium-rich pegmatites generally con-
lecturing (e.g. Ore Deposits Hub).
world. Whilst I am and have been involved tain less tonnage than lithium brine deposits
TS: You worked at Rio Tinto for six years. with projects in (sub)tropical environments in South America, they are present in most
How has working there shaped you as a for a long time, I think that working in Nordic orogenic belts of the world, and also con-
professional? Do you think that young countries, i.e. Scandinavia and Canada, offers tain other technology metals and industrial

minerals of interest, such as tantalum, tin TS: You have also worked in the world- commencing in the 1990s, resulting in only a
and caesium, but also high purity quartz and class greenstone belts of West Africa and few commercial discoveries made to date. The
feldspar. From an academic perspective, peg- Lapland, which are well-known hosts CLGB is currently staked out as companies
matites generally represent the latest stage of for major gold deposits. Do you see the consider this area to be very prospective for
magmatic fractionation, enriching the melt in potential for other metal discoveries in further discoveries. Similarly, the extension
volatiles and incompatible elements, and are these areas? of the CLGB into Norway, known as the Karas-
therefore of interest to researchers and indus- jok Greenstone Belt, has been very poorly
trial geologists alike. BS: Certainly. There is still abundant potential explored by industry and holds significant
to use modern exploration and data interpre- upside exploration potential. Companies are
TS: LCT pegmatites are considered to be tation techniques that could lead to new dis- likely challenged by communities in northern
‘critical metals’ in many nations, includ- coveries in these areas. Take for example the Norway, and this is why exploration has not
ing the US and Australia. Do you think Central Lapland Greenstone Belt (CLGB) in really taken off in this belt yet.
that LCT pegmatites could be an import- northern Finland. There is currently only one
ant supply of these metals as the world TS: What are the different challenges of
operating gold mine (Kittila, Agnico-Eagle),
moves to ‘green energy?’ drilling in the Arctic (in Finland for exam-
and several advanced projects (e.g. Rupert
ple) and drilling in the tropics? How would
BS: Yes, LCT pegmatites form an important Resources). Compared to other widely known
you compare the two environments?
mineral deposit type and supply of ‘critical greenstone belts, the current known metal
metals’, particularly in light of their presence endowment is low. However, this is a result BS: I would say that availability of drilling
in most orogenic belts and metal enrichment. of commercial interest and exploration efforts contractors, general logistics and ground
↑ Field exploration in the remote fjords of the Helgeland pegmatite field, northern Norway

conditions are three main challenges in these I worked on several projects that required
contrasting environments. In northern Scan- a re-thinking of the project scope as high
dinavia, you have several drilling contractors groundwater tables and the resulting mud
available that are experienced in the specific did make RC drilling impossible. Switching to
drilling conditions and, importantly, local to diamond drilling (DD) resulted in further bud-
the area. In the tropics, contractors are mainly get constraints, i.e. less holes could be drilled.
mobilizing supervisory staff from overseas, i.e. TS: As a geologist, you know how import-
an understanding of the local conditions can ant quality control (QC) is when sampling.
sometimes be lost. General logistics in north- Do you think that drill crews take the
ern Scandinavia are generally very straightfor- same level of interest in quality control,
ward when compared to the tropics. You are in or they only care about meterage?
the Arctic Circle, yes, but most places are rath-
er easily accessible (even in the winter), and BS: I have experienced both scenarios – this
supplies and procurement chains are within will entirely depend on the professionalism,
attitude and values of the drilling contractor.
relatively short reach. In terms of ground con-
All drill crews I have worked with were very
ditions, I think that the often extensive laterit-
good in HSE and performed an appropri-
ic weathering profiles in the tropics commonly
ate amount of quality control on the reverse
lead to issues when choosing the right drilling
circulation (RC) chips, diamond drilling core,
equipment.
etc. they performed. We should not forget
that at the end of the day, drill crews are ser-
vice providers and paid for the meterage they
achieve. Good leadership can make a signifi-
cant difference though.
TS: What improvements would you like
to see in the drilling industry in order to
make quality control more prominent and
‘I remember an occasion easier?
in Southern Africa where BS: I think it all comes down to leadership and
training. If drilling contractors are led by expe-
the drill supervisor rienced managers, and regular training in not
shut down a drill rig just drilling techniques, but also monitoring
quality control, then many QC issues can be
for an entire afternoon resolved. Sometimes I have the impression
(on his own accord) to that core marking and core recovery measure-
ments at the drill site are conducted in a rou-
investigate after a near- tine fashion without thinking about the bigger
miss (hands in RC splitter picture. This has, in my experience, occasion-
ally lead to issues further down the line when
box). I thought that this geologists try to piece together the depth that
was actually drilled, as downhole measure-
was a very good safety ments return different EoH values.
leadership attitude. Even TS: Please share your most memorable
Major Drilling is one of the
now I use this example experience with a drilling contractor.
world’s largest drilling services
in my lectures and BS: I remember an occasion in Southern Afri-
companies primarily serving the
ca where the drill supervisor shut down a drill
workshops to demonstrate rig for an entire afternoon (on his own accord) mining industry, and maintains
how important safety to investigate after a near-miss (hands in RC ﬁeld operations and oﬃces in
splitter box). I thought that this was a very
awareness and good safety leadership attitude. Even now I
Canada, the United States,
use this example in my lectures and work- Mexico, South America, Asia,
leadership need to be.’
shops to demonstrate how important safety Africa and Australia.
awareness and leadership need to be.
TS: As previously mentioned, you have
worked a lot in lithium. Lithium is obvi-
ously important for the electric vehicle
industry and there has been a lot of hype info@majordrilling.com
around finding new deposits, however,
info@majordrilling.com
am I right in saying that lithium is quite capital requirement routes. What explorers minerals), will be required to move into a sus-
abundant on Earth? often forget are geotechnical, slope stabil- tainable future. Despite the common belief
ity and mineral processing considerations. that exploration needs to target mineraliza-
BS: Yes, compared to gold, silver and PGEs
Pegmatites I have worked on in (sub)tropical tion at greater depth, I think that there are
(Platinum Group Elements), for example,
environments commonly have a leached and still rather unchartered and poorly studied
lithium is quite abundant in the continental
weathered surface expression, which not only metallogenic belts in Central, Southeast and
crust. However, economic accumulations are removes lithium from the saprolite, but also
restricted to certain geological environments Far Eastern Asia, for example. The unlocking
leads to issues with slope stability in open
(e.g. granites, pegmatites, evaporation lakes), of these destinations will depend on political
pit mining scenarios and problematic mineral
and even then the distribution can be quite changes and revised mining codes.
extraction due to the presence of kaolinized
patchy. The task of geologists and explora- Furthermore, I believe that a solid under-
clays. It is, therefore, necessary to take into
tion companies, therefore, is to appropriately standing and application of geological con-
account these technical considerations, along
delineate accumulations of lithium minerals cepts, along with the ability to comprehen-
with economic and infrastructure factors, to
which can be economically exploited. sively ‘squeeze’ and analyze geoscientific
evaluate the feasibility of a lithium pegmatite
project. information will be key to locate and develop
TS: What makes a lithium project eco- new mineral deposits. Advanced artificial in-
nomic? TS: Other than lithium, what other metals telligence and modelling workflows will help
are going to be key in the next five years? to achieve this, but it is still the task of mining
BS: In terms of LCT pegmatites, grade and ton-
nage are obviously important. In this regard, BS: Battery metals in general will continue professionals to evaluate and synthesize the
a necessity is to outline not just a single LCT to see a boom, along with copper and gold. I data in the context of geology, mineral eco-
pegmatite, but instead an LCT pegmatite field would not be surprised to see uranium emerg- nomics and mining techniques. C
that ideally contains several LCT pegmatites ing, at least temporary, as well.
with a proven average grade of above at least
TS: What does the future hold for Mineral
1% Li2O and a strike extent of at least several
Exploration in general?
hundred meters.
Furthermore, it needs to be established BS: I feel very positive about the role of min- For more information
whether lithium is contained in spodumene eral exploration in the future. The current Visit: https://xplore.global/
(pyroxene), lepidolite/zinnwaldite (micas) or commodity trends demonstrate that bulk
other minerals. This has important implica- commodities, as well as previous niche com-
tions on downstream mineral processing and modities (lithium, graphite, REEs, industrial

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/EXPLORATION & MINING GEOLOGY
Rupert Resources:
The benefits of aggressive drilling
Aggressive spending on drilling during exploration is usually a good

strategy for advancing a project quickly, and nowhere demonstrates that
fact better than Rupert Resources’s (Rupert) (TSXv:RUP, OTCQX:RUPRF)
almost 4 million oz (113.4 tonnes) Ikkari gold discovery in Finland.
This project is remarkable not just for its size and quality, but also
because the company took it from discovery to a maiden resource
estimate in just 18 months, during a global pandemic, no less.

R
upert has consolidated a 595 km2 (229.73 mi2) land package in At Ikkari, a single anomalous sample with 0.2 ppm gold was investi-
the Central Lapland Greenstone Belt, an area that only began gated with infill drilling on a 50 x 25 m (164 x 82 ft) grid, which turned
to draw serious attention in 2009 with the opening of Agnico up a cluster of samples with up to 1 ppm Au. At that stage, Rupert
Eagle’s Kittila mine, now the largest primary gold producer in Europe. knew they had a significant geochemical anomaly on their hands, so
Since then, there has been something of a gold rush in the area, and from April 2020, they began focusing more drilling there. The first hole
Rupert has come out on top. Thomas Credland, Rupert’s Head of Corpo- (hole 120038) intersected 54 m (177 ft) grading 1.5 g/t Au, and subse-
rate Development, explained the company’s early interest in the region: quent holes showed that the mineralized area was large, with an initial
‘Central Lapland already hosted a number of other orogenic gold and strike length of more than 500 m (1640 ft) and was also high-grade in
base metal deposits comparable to greenstone belts such as the Abitibi parts. At Ikkari, 100% of holes to date have hit gold mineralization.
in Canada, Birimian of West Africa and Eastern Goldfields of Western It quickly became clear that the feature controlling gold mineraliza-
Australia, but it was apparent that it was extremely immature in terms tion at Ikkari was the unconformity between the komatiite-dominant
of exploration activity - probably 100 years behind.’ Savukoski Group and the sedimentary Kumpu Group. As COVID-19 shut
The entire area around Ikkari is a swamp with no outcrop, and beneath down much of the world, Rupert took extensive health and safety pre-
that is glacial till from the last ice age that overlies the bedrock to a depth cautions at their site and drilled on. In September 2021, just 18 months
of between 5–40 m (16.4–131.2 ft). This meant that there was no option after Ikkari’s discovery, they were able to define an estimated mineral
but to drill on the site, in contrast to Kittila and Rupert’s other deposit resource of 3.95 million oz (111.98 tonnes) for the deposit, with cut-off
in the region, Pahtavaara mine, which were both discovered in outcrop. grades of 0.6 g/t Au for open pit mining and 1.2 g/t Au for underground.
Between 2017 and 2019, Rupert focused on characterizing their assets Rupert has not slowed down after this major success and are now
on a broad scale. Naturally, they employed geophysical methods to get a targeting their drilling efforts in a 60:40 ratio at Ikkari and other dis-
better picture of what lay under the ground but, most importantly, they coveries. News at the end of November announced grades from tighter
stumped up the cash for percussion drilling down to the base of the gla- drill spacing at Ikkari of up to 7.7 g/t Au over 30 m (98 ft), and at the
cial till and got geochemical analyses from the interface between the satellite Heinä Central deposit, which was not included in the resource
till and the bedrock. This was vital as it was the only way to really know estimate, both high-grade copper and gold have been found over
what sort of rock was hiding under all that cover. multiple intervals.
Thomas Credland explained that Rupert’s strategy in the area was It’s clear from Rupert’s example that aggressive drilling from the start
guided by the discovery of Anglo American’s nearby polymetallic Sakatti of an exploration campaign can pay off immensely. Thomas Credland
deposit, which hosts the dizzying array of Ni-Cu-Co-PGE-Au-Ag miner- said that investors understood the need for such an approach due to
alization. Base-of-till drilling was used to discover Sakatti, and Rupert the lack of outcrop and the fact that the non-productive overhead of
took note of this success. The company also had a new geological mod- the program becomes proportionally bigger the fewer meters that are
el to work with, which suggested a 25 km (15.53 mi) regional structure drilled, so other juniors looking to make substantial discoveries in fresh
underlay part of their property. Rupert geologists had identified a pos- territory might want to take note. C
sible basin margin in the south-west of their land package, which was
confirmed when they drilled sediments in that area, as opposed to vol-
canic rocks in the east of the property. The company performed ‘tram For more information
line’ drilling – two lines of sampling 100 m (328 ft) apart, covering a
Visit: www.rupertresources.com
large area. They then followed up anomalous results with more close-
ly-spaced holes, and the Ikkari resource was one of those.
↑ Drilling is still ongoing at the property, with the company ↑ Extensive drilling resulting in plenty of core has been
working to both expand and better define the resource the key to rapid resource estimation at Ikkari

Gold fever in Guyana

by Ian Foreman, Principal at Foremost Corporate Services
An exciting new gold player from Vancouver, Canada

– Alerio Gold Corp. (Alerio) (ALE:CSE) – has recently
acquired highly prospective gold projects in Guyana,
South America. Guyana is a democratic state that is still
a member of the Commonwealth and has English as its
official language. It is a mining-friendly country with a
government that has supported the mining industry on
many levels for years. Guyana is known for its significant
endowment of natural resources. Gold has historically
accounted for a large 35% of the country’s exports, with
production exceeding 625 000 oz (17.72 tonnes) in 2019.
The location of Alerio Gold’s Tassawini project situated in the Barama-Waini District, Guyana
Author’s note: this article is intended for information purposes only. The reader is encouraged to perform
their own due diligence if they are interested in investing in the company.

T
he mining sector has been a major piece of Guyana’s history,
and its democratically elected government has long held a
pro-mining stance, encouraging investment in the responsible
extraction of natural resources through a stable Mining Act. Guyana is
situated in the heart of the Guiana Shield — a 1.7-billion-year-old geo-
logical formation that shares much of its geological makeup with the
West African Shield. Due to this interpreted tectonic relationship, many
explorers are betting on the similar geological terrains known from de-
cades of exploring and mining in the precious metals-rich West African
Shield. Well-known players such as Newmont, Reunion, Troy, Omai Gold
and G2 Goldfields have long since developed Guyana. The Guiana Shield
has long been a target for prospectors and holds an estimated 140 mil-
lion oz (≈ 3970 tonnes) of gold - the best-known deposit being the Au-
rora Mine with resources of over 6.9 million oz (≈ 195 tonnes) of gold. In
addition, Omai Gold is once again a major part of this new resurgence of
interest in Guyana with plans to re-establish the Omai gold mine.
The Tassawini Property

↑ An outcrop at Tassawini showing the complex
Alerio has recently secured the licenses for the Tassawini Gold Project in
folding within the mineralized envelope
Guyana. The property has a historical resource estimate of 499 000 oz
(14.15 tonnes) of gold. CAD 34 million has already been invested in ex-
Historic exploration at the Tassawini Property concentrated on a core
ploration and development on the property, and current management
of gold targets that include Tassawini West, Tassawini South, Tassawi-
is pushing progress to further expand exploration on a total of 1381
ni East, Black Ridge, Mine Creek and Sonne. There are in an excess of
hectares of land with the medium-term goal of developing a producing
nine additional targets that have yet to be tested. Mineralized zones
mine. The infrastructure on site is very good as the project is located on
with reported true widths of 10 m (32.81 ft) to over 50 m (164 ft) have
a navigable river. been defined by diamond drilling. Preferred host lithologies are highly
deformed silica-invaded phyllite and black metamudstone. Gold min-
eralization occurs in or close to the contacts with the intrusive units. In
most cases, the mineralized envelopes dip between 45° and 75° to the
north and northwest, and plunge at an average of 15° to 25° towards the
southwest. However, at Tassawini South, the mineralized envelopes are
nearly horizontal as they are controlled by the contacts with the intru-
sive bodies. In detail, all the mineralized zones are extremely complex
in shape, but they have been interpreted to be linked as they appear
to belong to one single larger system that was disrupted by intrusive
bodies and faults.
The gold mineralization occurs in spatial association with silica, pyrite
and arsenopyrite in zones of silicification and carbonation alteration.
Gold deposition and/or remobilization are controlled by deformed mi-
cro-quartz and quartz-carbonate veining related to linear high strain
zones, fold hinges and intrusive contacts.
The Guiana Shield

The Guiana Shield spans over 2000 km (1242 mi) and stretches from
western Venezuela, through Guyana, Suriname, and French Guyana and
ends in northern Brazil. The shield is composed of a Palaeoproterozo-
ic granite-greenstone terrain with a general east to northeast trending
structural trend. This terrain is considered to be the extension of the
West-African Palaeoproterozoic Birimian Supergroup metasedimen-
tary/greenstone terrains, which, in northern Guyana, was originally
mapped as part of the Lower Proterozoic Barama-Mazaruni Super-
group (approx. 2200-2000 million years in age). The Barama-Mazaruni
Supergroup consists of metasedimentary/greenstone terrains interca-
lated with Archean-Proterozoic gneisses that were then intruded by
Trans-amazonian granites as well as mafic and ultramafic rocks (see
↑ There has been extensive artisanal mining
McConnell and Williams, 1969). The geology at Tassawini is dominat-
within the Tassawini project
ed by a series of lower to upper greenschist facies altered fine-grained

metasedimentary rocks that have been in-
truded by a series of granitoids. The dom-
inant lithologies are phylite, finely banded
fine-grained metaclastite, carboniferous
schist, and garnet-sulphide-graphitic rocks.
These rocks are interpreted as originally be-
ing deposited as siltstones and mudstones
in a carbonate-sulphide iron formation that
was formed under reducing submarine con-
ditions. This proto-sedimentary sequence is
part of a manganese-rich proto-basin that
can be traced from the Tassawini property
over 100 km (62 mi) to where manganese was
historically mined. Within this sequence are
localized disconformable incursions of turbid-
ic wacke as well as coarser sedimentary units
such as sandstones and conglomerates.
Additional information ↑ The Guiana Shield and the West African Shield showing significant gold deposits
Alerio also holds the Harpy project, an ear-
ly-stage exploration play. It is adjacent to the References
Aurora gold deposit owned by Guyana Gold- McConnell, R. B., and Williams, E., 1969,
fields that was recently purchased by Zijin Distribution and provisional correlation of For more information
Mining for USD 323 million. Alerio is looking the Precambrian of the Guiana Shield. Paper Visit: www.aleriogold.com
to progress both of these projects and make presented at the 8th Guiana Geol. Conf.,
further acquisitions in 2022. C Georgetown, Guyana.

/EXPLORATION DRILLING CATALOG
Drilling Services
Drilling Contractors (A-Z): Diamond Drilling, Reverse Circulation, AirCore
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DDH1 DRILLING GÜNZEL DRILLING CC KATI OY

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admin@ddh1.com.au info@guenzeldrilling.com info@oykatiab.com
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Australia Namibia Finland

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Fax 90-312 385 35 75 Fax +1 604-940-4919
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Drill Rig Parts (A-Z)
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Fax (250) 563-6704
khodgins@prolenc.com
www.prolenc.com
RC Equipment (A-Z)
BOART LONGYEAR FORDIA POWERED BY EPIROC DIAMANTINA CHRISTENSEN DIASET

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Fax 1-801-977-3374 Fax 514-745-4125 christensen@christensen.cl Fax 604-940-9534
www.boartlongyear.com info@fordia.com diamantinachristensen.com bits@diaset.com
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Diamond Products (A-Z) Diamond Products (A-Z)
Specialized Machine Works (A-Z)

NORTH BAY MACHINING CENTRE PROLENC
Phone (705) 472-9416 Phone (250) 563-8899
Fax (705) 472-2927 Fax (250) 563-6704
luc@nbmc.ca khodgins@prolenc.com
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Core Barrels (A-Z)
BOART LONGYEAR HARGRAND DRILLING SINOCOREDRILL

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HOLE PRODUCTS
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whp@baoqizt.com www.sinocoredrill.com
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www.hargrand.com
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DRILLING HQ HOLE PRODUCTS TERRA TEAM OY
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Fax 90-312 385 35 75 ventas@coretech.com.pe Phone 514-336-9211
info@barkomas.com www.coretech.com.pe Fax 514-745-4125
www.barkomas.com info@fordia.com
www.fordia.com

Drill Rods & Casings
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FORDIA POWERED BY REFLEX SONDA PARTS

EPIROC Phone 1-705-235-2169 Phone 55 – (31) 3391 3810
Phone 514-336-9211 Fax 1-705-235-2165 Fax 55 – (31) 3391 3810
Fax 514-745-4125 reflex@imdexlimited.com comercial@sondaparts.com.br
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www.fordia.com
Water Treatment System (A-Z)
Core Orientation (A-Z)

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Fax +1 403 720 4951 4620 11 00
orders@ info@mudex.com.au info@tigerfluids.com
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Packers (A-Z)
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CEBO HOLLAND B. V. DI-CORP JC PORTAL DRILLING
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GEODRILL

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Issue 18 Drilling Exploration & Mining Geology

Explorat ion D ia mond D r i l l i ng

Integrated Core Orientation Has Arrived

Integrates with standard head assemblies

Integrated Core Orientation

/IN FOCUS /PRODUCT REVIEW: DRLL RIGS

32 Meet MAX: The 8000 lb beast that drills

46 Rupert Resources: The benefits

/PRODUCT RELEASE 57 Survey equipment

22 MK-2 Rod Feeder (patent pending): 58 Miscellaneous

Authors in this issue

Mario Rouillier Dr Benedikt Steiner

CORING MAGAZINE Publisher Coring Magazine is an international quarterly title

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Call: +46 708 980 459

Exclusive interview with

Mario Rouillier studied in Abitibi-Témiscamingue,

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Drillers’ trusted publication 7

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Drillers’ trusted publication 9

• B20 Drill Heads

Hy-Tech Drilling - Golden Triangle, BC

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Geodrill is a well-established drilling

Company history and development

Drillers’ trusted publication 13

↑ Geodrill’s Anwiankwanta Operations Base, located near Kumasi in Ghana

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↑ Operating to the highest international HSEQ standards

Drillers’ trusted publication 15

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stages of the development process. Statistical

At a first glance, the additionally investigated

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MK-2 Rod Feeder PATENT

The independent rod handling system

KEY FEATURES AND BENEFITS OF MK-2 ROD FEEDER SYSTEM

Drillers’ trusted publication 23

support vehicle. Both configurations have been designed to fit inside

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Gain insight from

In recent years, we have received an increasing number of questions concerning

In the formula above, the tangent vectors at survey Stations 1 and 2

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Figure 3 - Station-to-station distance error for minimum

Drillers’ trusted publication 27

DLS as a quality flag References & resources

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Depth and mobility

Find out more at epiroc.com

Drilling is hard work. Fordia makes it easier.

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↑ Rusmining Export’s workshop

Drillers’ trusted publication 31

by Rishi Budshah, CMO at Hydracore Drills Ltd.