Core Drilling Rig

A core drilling rig is a specialized drilling machine used in geological exploration, mineral resource prospecting, engineering geology investigations, and other fields to obtain intact core samples of subsurface rock or soil. Unlike conventional drills, core drilling rigs preserve the core during drilling for subsequent geological analysis, mineralogical identification, structural studies, and more.

1. Key Features of Core Drilling Rigs

Core Recovery Capability: Uses double-tube or triple-tube core barrels to retrieve intact rock cores during drilling.

High Precision: Suitable for projects requiring detailed stratigraphic information, such as tunnel surveys, dam foundations, and mining exploration.

Strong Adaptability: Capable of drilling through various ground conditions, including soft soil, sand, gravel, and hard rock.

Modular Design: Easy to transport and assemble, ideal for field operations.

2. Classification of Core Drill Rigs

Classification Basis Types

Power Source Hydraulic, electric, diesel-powered

Drilling Method Rotary, percussive-rotary, wireline core drilling

Application Geological exploration rigs, engineering investigation rigs, hydrogeological/water well rigs

Drilling Depth Shallow (<300 m), medium (300–1000 m), deep (>1000 m)

Among these, wireline core drilling rigs represent the most advanced and efficient type today. They allow retrieval of the inner core tube via a wireline without pulling out the entire drill string, significantly improving operational efficiency.

3. Main Components of Core Drill Rig

Power System: Provides power (via hydraulic pump, electric motor, or diesel engine).

Mast/Derrick: Supports drill rods and hoisting systems.

Rotary Head: Rotates the drill string.

Feed System: Controls drill pressure and penetration rate.

Flush Fluid Circulation System: Cools the bit, removes cuttings, and stabilizes the borehole wall.

Core Barrel Assembly: Includes inner tube, outer tube, core lifter case, spring catchers, etc.

4. Typical Applications of Core Drilling Rig

Mineral exploration (gold, copper, iron, rare earths, etc.)

Foundation investigations for tunnels and bridges

Geotechnical surveys for hydropower and water conservancy projects

Geothermal energy development wells

Scientific drilling (e.g., continental scientific drilling programs)

Our company specializes in producing power-head, fully hydraulic core drill rigs capable of drilling depths exceeding 1,000 meters.