Principle and application
Inclined core drilling is rotary drilling carried out at an angle to intercept mineralised bodies in the most representative direction, recovering continuous core at depth. It is the central tool of mineral exploration, feeding the geological model with real samples of grade and body geometry.
The test in stages
Inclined borehole
The rig is set up at the design angle to intercept the body.
Wireline drilling
The wireline system recovers the core without pulling the string, gaining depth.
Continuous core
The core is recovered, measured and placed in boxes.
Deviation control
Borehole deviation is measured to position the intercepts correctly.
According to mineral exploration
| Core | Continuous sample for logging and analysis |
|---|---|
| Recovery / RQD | Quality of the rock mass and the core |
| Trajectory | Actual borehole position from deviation surveys |
| Depth | Reach according to the geological target |
Quality and field operation
Data quality
- Own fleet and crews, dedicated to mineral exploration.
- Recovery and RQD control per run.
- Deviation surveys to position the intercepts.
- Core photographed and boxes tracked.
Site standard
- Qualified for high-compliance areas: mining, industry and ports.
- Organised, signed work front with an HSE procedure in place.
- Own crews and fleet, including night shifts.
The deliverable
| Core boxes | Arranged, measured and photographed |
|---|---|
| Log | Recovery, RQD and depth per run |
| Borehole trajectory | Deviation survey |
| Typical lead time | According to depth and target logistics |
Sectors and project types
Frequently asked questions about inclined core drilling
What is inclined core drilling used for?
Inclined core drilling is rotary drilling carried out at an angle to intercept mineralised bodies in the most representative direction, recovering continuous core at depth. It is the central tool of mineral exploration, feeding the geological model with real samples of grade and body geometry.
Why is the borehole inclined?
Mineralised bodies usually dip. An inclined borehole crosses the structure at an angle closer to perpendicular, giving intercepts that are more representative of grade and geometry.
What is wireline drilling?
A system that recovers the core through the inside of the string, without removing it on every run. It saves a great deal of time and gains depth in the long boreholes of mineral exploration.
Telemetry and control in mineral exploration drilling
Technical bulletin on monitoring and productivity in mineral exploration campaigns.
Inclined core drilling for your project
Tell us about your project and we will prepare the investigation plan and the quote.