Article on Diamond Drilling by a Diamond Driller, Farren Billey. Thanks; Farren for this article. For more information on Diamond Drilling email the author at sbilley@cyberlink.bc.ca.
Mining has been a part of our history for approximately 6000 years. Drilling has been used by the Chinese approximately 4000 years ago and since then it has evolved into several different sectors. The drilling fields that are most common to the mining industry are Mineral exploration and Geotechnical.
Exploration drilling is a search for minerals that lay within the earth's crust. Primary drill holes are positioned to examine the size of the potential ore body. Boreholes that pass through the ore body identify depth, length and width. A more complete drilling pattern will follow the primary exploration to prove the approximate tons of reserves. Knowing the grade, location and amount of ore that exist a feasibility study will proceed to determine the value and potential cost of extracting the mineral. Poor recovery and miss handling of the samples could mean the loss of a operating mine. Take care and know the importance of drilling results.
Geotechnical drilling studies the soil, water table and rock formations to assist in the construction of mine sites, buildings, dams, as well it can be used for environmental studies. It can often be slow and laboring work, but it is important to produce the best results possible.
Diamond Drillers as I see us.
Drillers are a separate family of workers as is the industry in which they work. Another familiar trade in which Drillers life style can be associated is life as a mariner, both have to deal with what nature encumbers them and they can only overcome their fate in their own way.
Drillers need to have a number of mechanical skills and the determination of a dung beetle in a sand storm. A Driller will enjoy working in small groups of personnel as well as in adverse conditions ( cold, heat, blizzards, or political unrest ).
Drillers should possess these basic skills;
1) mechanically inclined
2) problem solving
3) familiar with the operation of heavy equipment
4) a leader
5) resourceful ( it is often will not have the right part on hand )
6) communication skills
As well seasoned Driller will have many stories and knowledge of drilling practices. Diamond drilling skills are mostly passed on through word of mouth and experience as a helper. So the old guy that is sometimes left out could be your best text book. Drilling has provided me with many physical challenges a very fulfilling lifestyle.
Best Regards,
Farren Billey.
PO Box 245 Main, Cranbrook, BC
Telephone 1-250-489-0434
Fax 1-250-489-0434
Email: sbilley@cyberlink.bc.ca