WorldWide Drilling Resource

32 OCTOBER 2017 WorldWide Drilling Resource ® Meeting Safety Goals Information Courtesy of Drill King International Drill King International specializes in top-quality, down-the-hole drilling equipment and accessories, which help customers meet safety goals on the jobsite. The com- pany’s commitment to developing innovative products of the highest caliber, along with the technical expertise of their European partner - GDS Geo Drilling Solutions, were key to drilling success at the Boliden Garpenberg mine. Boliden Garpenberg mine is part of Sweden’s oldest mining area still in operation, which produces complex ores containing zinc, lead, silver, copper, and gold. Opera- tions are conducted with strict goals when it comes to health, safety, and the envi- ronment. Operators strive to make it a place where nobody is injured at work and impact on the surrounding environment is minimal. As a result, the mine is one of the safest in the world. In 2014, a new production plant was opened at the mine, which increased annual production as drilling commenced. Ten boreholes were drilled to depths up to 780 feet, with nearly 8000 feet of total drilling. Water-propelled hammers and bits were chosen due to requirements with the underground working environment and safety issues with the air when drilling. The reamer bit solution from Drill King was utilized because of the product’s short delivery time, high quality, and the possibility to customize the reamer bit design. The reamer bits were made at the customer’s request, with diamond coated buttons made of tungsten carbide. Drill King takes pride in being one of the few true custom bit manufacturers. The company has produced thousands of dif- ferent configurations based on their customers’ specifications. They have one of the largest stocking selections of bits in the western hemisphere, and can machine sizes ranging from 2¾ - 42 inches. They also offer bit enhancements capable of in- creasing the bit’s performance. Customers can upgrade to premium inserts when drilling in hard formations. Adding wear pads to the bits can protect the gage row, extending the wear life of the bit while maintaining hole diameter. The Drill King reamer bits helped to safely produce the boreholes at the Boliden Garpenberg mine on time, even with severe geological conditions. This case exemplifies the company’s principles of excellence, hard work, service, and integrity. Drill King’s reamer (hole opener) bit and water-propelled hammer in action.