Coring Magazine Issue 13

50 YEARS AND SPINNING

Issue 13

Drilling

Exploration & Mining Geology

July 2020

Issue Special // Hole Stabilization

Q&A from the Experts // Drew Craig - Managing Director at Rocklore Exploration Services Limited

21 Questions // Chris Hopkins – Underground Operations, Boart Longyear APAC ISSN 2367-847X www.coringmagazine.com

More Inside // In Focus: Mitchell Services

Explorat ion

D ia mond

More Inside // Battery Metal Potential of the Lovelock Mine, Nevada

D r i l l i ng

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/EDITORIAL

Dear Readers We’re proud to be the diamond drilling industry’s respected and trusted publication – learning and evolving over the course of five years, and yet our goal remains unchanged – to produce timely and interesting, industry-specific content, focused on innovation and success.

The unprecedented situation that has become our new ‘normal’ continues to challenge everyone, and COVID-19 has the potential to severely impact Coring’s financial stability.

We’ve adjusted to circumstance by following a new path of mutual value for our readers, partners and publishers.

To safeguard against delays to our operations, we’re introducing paid print subscriptions to Coring Magazine. All subscribers will continue to receive FREE digital issues, while our print circulation is being offered at a budget-friendly, annual rate. We simply request that you email martina@coringmagazine.com to confirm your preference for a hard copy.

Advertisers, business partners and previously agreed contacts will continue to receive a complimentary print edition.

Coring’s offering will now expand and continue to develop in the wake of our distribution shift. We’ll focus on providing additional digital content, accessible via any device at any time. The shift to a digital space provides significant benefit to our partners – promoting industry content across all mediums – print, social media and Coring’s website, tripling exposure with an engaged audience. Our marketing team will run feature articles and advertising campaigns across every platform, with greater visibility than before.

Quite simply, our readers will access more content, more frequently, wherever they are. It’s win-win, as we learn to adapt to a new ‘normal’, better utilize technology, and seize opportunity to hone our content and serve you better.

We value you – our readers, so please connect with us, and share your thoughts and constructive feedback.

Stay safe, be well and here’s to a brighter second-half of 2020!

GRIGOR TOPEV Founder / Editor in Chief CORING MAGAZINE

Drillers’ trusted publication

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Table Contents /NEWS & EVENTS

/PRODUCT REVIEW

5

20 Built to explore: Multi-Power’s compact, Portable Centrifuge Mud Cleaning System

by Thomas Ulm, Sales Manager at Multi-Power Products Ltd.

The latest in the industry

/21 QUESTIONS 8

Exclusive interview: 21 Questions with Chris Hopkins, Underground Operations, Boart Longyear Australia

22

/IN FOCUS 12

Mitchell Services: 50 years and spinning

by Andrew Elf, CEO at Mitchell Services Limited

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/CORING SURVEY 18

Unearthing 15 of the industry’s most successful drilling contractors: based on 2019 results

by Coring Magazine

50 YEARS AND SPINNING

Ready to go beyond your expectations?

Son-Mak: proud to deliver, consistently by Cem Hizar, Sales Executive Drillware closes the loop on wasted water with the Environ SRS Centrifuge by Liam Cooley, Manufacturing at Drillware

/ISSUE SPECIAL: HOLE STABILIZATION 26 What happens down the hole, stays in the core

by Juan-Luis Valenzuela, Regional Manager at Matex

Coring Magazine July 2020 Cover photo

Mitchell Services Limited Issue 13 ISSN 2367-847X Issue 13

Drilling

Exploration & Mining Geology

July 2020

Issue Special // Hole Stabilization

Q&A from the Experts // Drew Craig - Managing Director at Rocklore Exploration Services Limited

21 Questions // Chris Hopkins – Underground Operations, Boart Longyear APAC ISSN 2367-847X www.coringmagazine.com

More Inside // In Focus: Mitchell Services

Explorat ion

D ia mond

More Inside // Battery Metal Potential of the Lovelock Mine, Nevada

Not for resale. Subscribe: www.coringmagazine.com/subscribe

D r i l l i ng

Contact Us Coring Media Ltd. 119B D. Petkov Str., Sofia 1309, Bulgaria Phone +359 88 953 2653 Email editorial@coringmagazine.com Website coringmagazine.com

30 A grounded approach to wellbore stabilization

by Walker Dillabough, Drilling Fluids Manager at Di-Corp 34 Mudex simplifies lost circulation material by Dave Williams, Director at Mudex

/CORING REPORTAGE 38 PDAC 2020: An album of highlights by Martina Samarova, Executive Officer at Coring Magazine

/EXPLORATION & MINING GEOLOGY 43 Q&A from the experts: Timothy Strong in conversation with Drew Craig, Managing Director at Rocklore Exploration Services Limited 48 Redmoor Project: Discovering a world-class underground tin-tungsten resource by Samuel Bolton, Exploration Geologist at Cornwall Resources Limited

Publisher Coring Media Editor in Chief Grigor Topev Executive Officer Martina Samarova Editor Joanne Miller Section Editor – Exploration & Mining Geology Timothy Strong Graphic Design Cog Graphics Printed by Dedrax Printing House

52 Things will never be the same by Louis Fourie, Owner & Principal at Terra Modelling Services Inc. 56 Battery metal potential of the Lovelock Mine, Nevada by Mitchell Smith, President & CEO and Timothy Strong, Project Development Manager at Global Energy Metals Corporation 62 Mining at El Pinguico – the potential crown jewel of Guanajuato mining

by James Anderson, CEO at Vangold Mining Corp.

/CATALOG 66 Diamond drilling services 68 Drilling equipment & accessories 73

Survey equipment

74 Miscellaneous

Coring Magazine is an international triannual title serving the exploration core drilling industry. Published in print and digital formats, Coring has a rapidly growing readership that includes diamond drilling contractors, drilling manufacturers and suppliers, service companies, mineral exploration companies and departments, geologists, and many others involved in exploration core drilling.

Launched in late 2015, Coring aims to provide a fresh perspective on the sector by sourcing authentic, informed and quality commentary direct from those working in the field. With regular interviews, insightful company profiles, detailed product reviews, field-practice tips and illustrated case studies of the world’s most unique diamond drilling and mineral exploration projects, Coring provides a platform for learning about the industry’s exciting developments.

/NEWS & EVENTS

The Latest in the Industry

June, 2020

May, 2020

Epiroc launches new underground core drilling rig with mobile carrier

Kati Oy win Beowulf drill contract

The all-new Diamec Smart 6M is an underground core drilling rig with

Beowulf Mining plc (Beowulf) (AIM: BEM; Spotlight: BEO), the mineral exploration and development company, has announced awarding the Kallak drilling contract to Kati Oy. The contract is for up to 1650 m (5413.39 ft) diamond drilling, targeting additional potential iron ore mineralization at Kallak South.

The work program will determine if a 3D seismic model can be constructed, using the established seismic characteristics of the Kallak deposit, and whether the 3D model can be used to identify additional iron ore mineralization for the exploration target.

The work is being undertaken as part of the European Union (EU)funded PACIFIC Project (PACIFIC). The project aims to develop a new, low-cost, environmentally friendly tool to explore for sub-surface mineral deposits. The program will test a multi-array method in parallel with drilling at Kallak South, with noise from drilling providing a passive seismic source.

The magnetic signature of mineralization at Kallak extends southwards from Kallak North to Kallak South, and then beyond to Parkijaure. Interpretation of geophysical data suggests the potential for additional iron ore mineralization, which could add to the Kallak North and Kallak South resource.

Read more: www.beowulfmining.com/investors/announcements

a mobile carrier and optional cabin. It maximizes drilling capacity through the mobility and sturdiness of the Boomer S2 rig carrier – capable of meeting the most demanding underground operations with a stable yet flexible boom.

The Diamec Smart 6M equals the Diamec Smart 6, rated for 1080 m (3543.31 ft) hole depth in N-size for vertical down, while vertical up drilling is 575 m (1886.48 ft). Global Product Manager, Ebrahim Nikafroozi proudly boasts, ‘The Diamec Smart 6M features three rotation unit options, from A- to H-size, with the strongest unit offering as much as 2390 Nm rotation torque – achieving required depths, even in difficult rock conditions.’

The new rig also features a rod handling system (RHS) for increased operator safety and productivity for both drill rods and inner tubes.

The RHS is fully synchronized with the drill rig via the rig control system (RCS), operated from the control panel.

Read more: www.epiroc.com/en-us/newsroom/2020/new-mobileunderground-core-drilling-rig-from-epiroc Drillers’ trusted publication

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/NEWS & EVENTS

The Latest in the Industry

June, 2020

June, 2020

Western Queen is set to ‘Rumble’ at its High-Grade Gold Project

ValOre bolsters technical team and provides update on Pedra Branca PGE Project drill program

Rumble Resources Ltd (ASX: RTR) will start a major drill program at its Western Queen High-Grade Gold Project located 110 km (68.35 miles) north west of Mt Magnet, within Western Australia’s Yalgoo mineral field.

This multi-rig drill program will comprise of approximately 12 000 m (39 370.08 ft) of diamond and reverse circulation (RC) drilling testing a range of high-grade gold targets. RC drilling will focus on multiple high-grade gold shoot targets and the diamond drilling will focus on potential resource extension down-plunge of the Western Queen Central deposit.

Managing Director Shane Sikora said: ‘Our first two stages of drilling identified six compelling high-grade gold shoot targets, extended the high-grade gold at depth at the Western Queen Central Deposit and of geological importance, identified the high-grade gold is in skarn shoots. Rumble is excited to embark on the largest drill program in our company’s history. As a result of the new geological understanding and results to date, we are confident in our ability to zero-in on the gold shoots, and that Rumble is on the verge of making multiple, significant, high-grade gold discoveries.’

Read more: www.rumbleresources.com.au

ValOre Metals Corp. (‘ValOre’; TSX‐V: VO; OTC: KVLQF; FRANKFURT: KEQ0) announced a significant strengthening of the company’s technical team and an update on the 2020 core drill program for ValOre’s 100 %-owned Pedra Branca Platinum Group Element Project (‘PGE’, ‘2PGE+Au’) in northeastern Brazil.

Consulting exploration geologists Robert A. Brozdowski, Ph.D., P. Geo., and Robert Carpenter, Ph.D., P. Geo., bring experience and direct expertise with PGE-enriched ultramafic systems, and both are synonymous with unearthing significant discoveries. In-country Project Geologist, Thiago Diniz, M.Sc., P.Geo., will assist in executing and managing ValOre’s remaining 2020 exploration program.

The talented trio join Colin Smith, M.SC., P.Geo., who is overseeing ValOre’s new project review.

ValOre has an agreement with drilling company Servitec Foraco Sondagem SA (Servitec-Foraco) to complete a 6000 m (19 685.04 ft) core drill program at Pedra Branca. Equipment and crews will mobilize immediately, and drilling is expected to commence mid-July for the permitted, two-phase program, with phase 1 and phase 2 totaling 2875 m (9432.42 ft) and 3035 m (9957.35 ft), respectively.

Read more: www.valoremetals.com/news-media/newsreleases/2020

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Coring Magazine #13

/21 QUESTIONS

Exclusive interview with

Chris Hopkins

questions

Underground Operations, Boart Longyear Australia

Chris ‘Hoppy’ Hopkins grew up on New South Wales’ south coast, and later in Sydney’s western suburbs, yet a relocation to Perth, Western Australia at age 11 proved the ideal change of scenery. If in search of Chris, you’ll find him in one of three places – underground, in the great outdoors, enjoying time fishing, or in the kitchen, cooking his catch of the day. In 2004, Chris started as a driller’s assistant with Drillcorp at Sunrise Dam, drilling initial diamond coring holes at Tropicana mine when it was still an exploration site, before moving onto deep directional drilling programs at Leonora and Forrestania. In 2006, Chris joined Boart Longyear (BLY) initially as a driller, before moving into a supervisory role at BHP Billiton’s Leinster and Mt Keith operations. This was when Chris developed a thorough appreciation of industry safety, and he’s grateful for the front row seat during a notable period of change in safety systems and workplace cultural maturity.

In 2014, the Great Financial Crisis adversely impacted Australia’s mining and exploration with widespread reduction across all surface drilling. Chris was redirected to BLY’s Waterwell division across multiple Pilbara sites. Chris eventually returned to the Goldfields to assume a regional supervisor role before being rewarded with his current role as operations manager for BLY’s underground division, APAC. 8

Grigor Topev: How and why did you choose to pursue a career in drilling?

Chris Hopkins: My father worked within Chevron’s lubrications business, collecting many small-scale models of heavy mining equipment. As a kid, I was fascinated by his ‘toys’ – sparking my interest and a subsequent stream of questions to my patient, receptive Dad who has since retired. I greatly admire my Dad for his genuine want to be of value to his community and local church.

At age 24, I became a father for the first time while working in the liquor industry and wanted to veer to an industry where hard work, commitment and dedication were appreciated. I was also itching for adventure and a change in scenery, having been inside a lively wine store for too long. The prospect of working in the great outdoors at remote locations, being physical, and solving mechanical issues really appealed, so I made the switch.

GT: Who is your inspiration within the drilling industry?

CH: My professional role models and mentors include the esteemed and respected likes of Dale Barron, Des Forde, Gregor Stephenson, the late John Emerson, and Murray Hillier. Their collective drilling knowledge, willingness to engage and educate, while offering support has had the most profound effect on my career.

GT: You’ve worked for Boart Longyear (BLY) for over 15 years, specializing and managing their Australian underground drilling operations – an impressive 35 rigs at any one time!

What’s your most memorable experience with BLY so far?

CH: I can’t recall a specific moment or project, as I’ve enjoyed many adventures during my career. Drilling challenges me on so many levels – from working and living away in remote locations and interesting environments, to geological undertakings through difficult formations, and the eventual satisfaction of completing a deep directional drilling program. In true A-type style, I beam with unwavering pride when my rig, fleet and team present well and drill effectively.

Coring Magazine #13

GT: List the three most important factors for successful underground operations.

CH: 1. Good work habits and a positive mental attitude: the underground space is a very physical and challenging workplace, but it’s also a great place to work – I love it! Every task has an exacting set of measures which must be followed, as short cuts are not tolerated.

Determination and attention to detail is necessary given the restricted work areas, equipment limitations and specific underground drilling requirements that can vary from +90 to -90 degrees. Excellent communication is paramount as daily interaction with mining teams is necessary to deliver quality samples within specific time frames. It is quite common for a mining team to immediately assume an area once drilling is complete.

2. Safety culture maturity: we must respect and understand our working environment, and maturity toward safety is a prerequisite to the underground mining sphere, given the inherent risk in what we do. I cannot and will not tolerate immaturity or lack of focus as either will result in someone being hurt and equipment being damaged.

3. People: are the most important and defining facet to success – in any industry. People who genuinely care and take pride in their work and accomplishments are who you want on your team. I’ve been fortunate to have worked with talented and capable people, and I’m most proud of my current team – they are enthusiastic, professional, highly motivated and experienced. We’ve developed an amazing and supportive working culture as a result.

GT: Which is more challenging – underground or surface drilling?

CH: My somewhat cheeky response is whatever drilling type I’m currently focused on and involved in. Seriously, every discipline – underground or surface drilling has its own challenges including ground conditions, technical drilling requirements to achieve targets, underground grade control programs requiring multiple rig locations and set-ups per shift, to largediameter holes requiring large tooling to complete. The challenge of individual hole completion is what deems the drilling Drillers’ trusted publication

industry such an exciting business to work in.

Up-hole drilling is a constant challenge, as underground geology departments strive to keep costs down. Sometimes the only way or location to achieve target is to drill ‘up’.

Boart Longyear’s Roller Latch™ system allows crews to successfully and safely do so while following best drilling practices.

GT: How does safety differ from underground to surface drilling operations?

CH: Underground mining and drilling teams work closely, attending the same pre-start meetings and engaging more frequently than would occur at surface. When underground, everyone is under the supervision of the shift boss and underground mine manager, with increased engagement with the mining safety team. My drilling team has forged greater cohesion between the two groups, implementing exemplary practice and innovation that has been adopted by all, and I couldn’t be prouder.

GT: Can you explain why mining companies tend to subcontract third parties for surface drilling yet undertake underground drilling themselves?

CH: There are two reasons – risk and cost.

Drilling is dangerous especially when poorly managed, so it makes sense to hire a professional contractor to complete

CH: Delays associated with mine blasting and other mining activities significantly reduce the amount of time drilling crews must complete work, while eliciting an added expense to the client. BLY’s Drill Control Interface (DCi) system enables continuous drilling, even while the rig is unattended. Semi-autonomous capability within the underground drilling space is subject to an anticipated transformation, and it’s an exciting time. Many mines have, and continue to install underground Wi-Fi communication systems for enhanced communication between the drill crew and surface-based support crew.

GT: Let’s talk drilling innovation. Is there any singular piece of equipment, fluid/mud, rig, or tool that you regard as a ‘game-changer’? If so, why?

CH: The underground space is in need of innovation, and Boart Longyear’s dynamic approach has meant that I’ve been involved in the development and release of some of the industry’s leading improvements including Roller Latch™ and TruCore™ orientation tooling, diamond coring bits – designed and tested in the field by our drillers, and safety improvements to both drilling equipment and in the field training systems. Our fleet features machines that enhance the driller interface with improved safety and increased performance thanks to BLY’s ability to design

‘Contractors must be accountable and continually improve to secure future work.’ the work. Contractors must be accountable and continually improve to secure future work. A lot of effort goes into delivering safe, seemingly hassle-free (for the client) drilling. Then there is cost. Most mining companies are incapable of costeffective and productive in-house drilling.

Contractors remain focused on achieving safe and productive outcomes for their ongoing financial survival and reputation.

GT: Given your experience and current role managing BLY’s APAC Region underground operations, what has, or continues to be, the most challenging underground drilling issue you’ve had to resolve, and how did you do so?

and manufacture reliable rigs and drilling equipment, backed by adept and supportive maintenance teams, and an extensive global supply chain. I’m particularly excited about current innovations and advancements we expect to release within the next year. I can’t elaborate just yet, so watch this space.

GT: Do Australian underground drilling projects tend to use one drill hole size over another? If so, what is it and why?

CH: Most Australian underground drilling is N-size as it yields clients respectable sized core samples for the cost. For drilling contractors, N-size improves productivity with wire line systems, reduces manual handling when compared to conventional 9

/21 QUESTIONS

systems, and improves hole completion in poor formations. Boart Longyear’s Roller Latch™ system also provides much safer operations when drilling up holes, veering away from conventional processes.

GT: Now for tech talk. How do you approach a hole with high-pressure outflow?

CH: The potential to intercept an underground water source when drilling underground is both great, and undesirable. Thorough planning, detailed risk assessment and experience round out the high-pressure prevention trifecta, coupled with having the necessary tooling at the ready – should it be required.

GT: What measures do you apply to improve hole stability and caving formations?

CH: Drilling fluids are critical to hole completion in broken, unstable or pressurized formations – supporting all aspects of hole conditioning from reducing torque, assisting in the removal of cuttings, increasing hydrostatic pressure, stopping hydro sensitive formations from reacting, and some products hold together loose formations. Cost is critical and all staff – not just drilling crews must be educated as to correct usage to ensure zero to minimal wastage as this can greatly

affect cost per meter. Reliable terminal equipment is key to ensure the most time down the hole. I’ve encountered many holes where formation stability is greatly reduced due to tripping of rods or introducing unnecessary pressures onto the formation, leading to extensive hole cleaning which then increases the likelihood of an unsuccessful hole completion.

GT: Do you utilize wedging in underground conditions, and what is your response to those who choose not to use it due to safety concerns?

CH: Boart Longyear makes use of wedging in both surface and underground operations.

option for them, as the cost to drill a new hole within the underground space can be cheaper than attempting directional drilling.

GT: Cement plugs tend to fail when diamond drilling. How do you apply them to prevent failure, or what do you use as an alternative?

CH: Cementing works best when it is kept simple, checking everything twice.

Like the carpentry adage, ‘measure twice; cut once.’ Training is key – as it is with all aspects of drilling. Be mindful of setting and correctly calculating grout volume.

Other points to note: is the cement type

‘Rushing to complete a job, particularly due to failure to plan, or lack of preparation is a recipe for disaster – namely injury.’

Wedging needn’t be a safety concern if effective planning and good communication are upheld. Importantly, we work closely with our clients to ensure this is the best

correct or best suited to the formation?

Is the product within its best before date, and has it been stored correctly? Are the slurry volume calculations correct? Is the potential for contamination being limited while mixing and displacing slurry? Be sure to extract a slurry sample to reference.

Importantly, if you’re using an additive, be sure to follow the manufacturer guidelines as more is not always better. Lastly, don’t feel pressured when attempting as this is when most mistakes do occur. In Australia, we use VAN RUTH® cementing plugs as they’re a proven product that work well.

GT: What is the most common drillerinduced issue that occurs at rigs, and what can be done to prevent it?

Surface exploration drilling in the Goldfields of Western Australia 10

CH: Lack of preparation. A driller’s day starts with the all-important pre-start meeting, where supervisors outline and ensure that their teams understand what is expected to occur during that shift.

Appropriate and reliable equipment is made available for the crew to safely complete every task and activity. Rushing to complete a job, particularly due to failure to plan, or lack of preparation is a recipe for disaster – namely injury.

Coring Magazine #13

GT: Tell us more about the project you are part of?

where the cost to drill through waste rock exceeds the cost to complete the directional requirements to reach the targeted zone.

complacent and we’re mindful of the much talked about second and third phases, hence Australia’s strict border controls.

CH: I’ve been fortunate to have been involved

GT: What about gyro survey tools? Are

GT: What’s diamond drilling’s future from a technical/innovation perspective?

deep directional drilling

in many deep directional drilling programs throughout Western Australia, however, it’s important to note that this drilling method varies from production-based drilling within the underground space. The focus is on hole completion and hitting the desired target. It’s complex, extremely technical, and requires intensive supervision, as every decision affects how the hole is drilled from start to finish. I enjoy drilling at depth – the planning, preparation, and necessary attention to detail (correct choice and use of equipment, barrel configurations and monitoring the hole’s deviation) to achieve target. It’s a proud moment to be part of a team that successfully reaches end of hole, delivering a sample of an ore body to a client from over 2000-meters depth.

GT: Mud motor (navi) drilling seems popular in Australia.

Do you agree and how prevalent has it become at drill sites?

CH: Directional drilling using down hole motors is an effective method to hit multiple targets from a ‘parent’ hole. The method is best applied to deeper targets and areas

Drillers’ trusted publication

you an avid user and advocate? Why? CH: The survey industry and its products are rapidly advancing in capability and reliability, with fantastic products available.

Most importantly, the system must meet client requirements and be easy to operate, with flexibility for drilling teams to utilize tools to maintain effectiveness. I’m a firm advocate of the Azimuth Aligner® as it reduces rig set up time and relieves pressure on mine survey teams.

GT: How has COVID-19 affected Australia’s underground operations?

CH: Mining is critical to Australia’s economy, and every operation has been closely monitored to eliminate or minimize risk.

Australia truly is the ‘lucky country’ for a few reasons – our geographic isolation and relatively small population combined with our swift acting government’s measures (international and state border lockdowns and mandatory 14-day self-isolation), has so far protected us as a nation. Over 25 million people live in Australia, yet our death rate from the pandemic is deemed low – just over 100 people. We must never be

CH: Exciting technologies are being harnessed and adapted within diamond drilling. Many contractors are relentless in their pursuit to remove manual handling for a twofold result – eliminate and minimize injuries, while encouraging the broader community to consider the profession.

Drilling cannot occur without people and the industry benefits when dedicated, focused and diligent people continually strive to improve perception and conditions.

People are the future of drilling, so we must ensure that our industry evolves with safety, education, innovative systems and solutions at its forefront, as evidenced by key groups such as Australian Drilling Industry Association (ADIA) – endeavoring to improve standards and protocol for collective success – now and in the future. I’m currently involved at a research and development level, applying expert advice and feedback to hone various soon-to-be-released Boart Longyear equipment and tools that will greatly improve safety and productivity, while questioning how we approach drilling.

It’s an incredibly exciting time to be in the industry and I personally cannot wait to see it come to fruition. Watch this space! C

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/IN FOCUS: MITCHELL SERVICES

Mitchell Services

50 years and spinning

by Andrew Elf, CEO at Mitchell Services Limited

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Coring Magazine #13

Peter and Deidre Mitchell had less than AUD 200 to their name after buying a Mayhew 1000 Drilling Rig for AUD 11 500 in 1969 and even less after it broke down at the front gate on the way to its first job. Fifty years later, Mitchell Services Limited is Australia’s most diversified drilling services company and a leading global provider to the mining, exploration and energy industries. The Mitchell brand celebrated 50 years in the drilling industry in 2019, and this pedigree has positioned the Mitchell Services business to successfully weather the industry’s peaks and troughs.

Today, the business is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) and is forecasting continued growth from its 2018/19 revenue of more than AUD 120 million.

Approximately 90 % of revenue comes from ‘Tier 1’ clients: large domestic and multinational mining and energy companies, operating long-life, low-cost mines. This work is concentrated in resource definition, development and production, providing a natural hedge against the higher risk,

Drillers’ trusted publication

greenfield exploration and feasibility market segment. Diversification gives Mitchell Services some downside protection in the cyclical resources sector and the company’s revenue is split evenly between surface drilling and underground operations, and spreads across a range of commodities and all of Australia’s major mining states.

A proud 50-year history in drilling services Built on a can-do attitude and down in the dirt determination, the business – originally named Mitchell Drilling Australia – grew to become the embodiment of the Australian mining spirit. ‘If it can’t be done, we’ll do it’ and ‘the impossible takes a little longer’ were common phrases Peter used as he grew the business through the 1970s. His words were backed by action. In 1976, a water truck’s engine broke down in the middle of the Simpson Desert in remote central Australia.

Peter contacted the manufacturer and replacement parts were driven five hours to the broken-down truck. As luck would have it, the manufacturer sent the wrong parts, and the driver and mechanic were forced to spend the night sleeping in the truck. The next day, Peter ordered the right replacement parts to be delivered express via airplane.

With no runway available, the parts were dropped from the window as the aircraft flew overhead. The mechanic and driver were home that night in time for dinner.

Twenty-one years after buying its first rig, the company had 40 employees and 10 rigs operating across Australia, and still a long way to go on its journey. In 1998, Mitchell had its first offshore venture in Indonesia to drill coal for BHP. While offshore work may have been daunting for some contractors, Mitchell was experienced at

operating in isolated and remote areas.

Peter and Deidre’s son, Nathan affirmed: ‘To us, the actual drilling and project management in these environments is fairly straight forward’. International operations have since taken place in India, China, the United States, Zambia, Papua New Guinea, Russia and throughout Africa.

In July 2008, then CEO, Nathan Mitchell decided to sell Mitchell Drilling Australia to ASX-listed AJ Lucas Limited. At the time, Mitchell Drilling was the largest privatelyowned drilling company in Australia with over 300 people and revenue upwards of AUD 95 million. The five-year, noncompete period within Australia stimulated the development of the international business under Mitchell Group Pty Ltd. In 2013, after the non-compete period expired, the Mitchell brand re-entered the Australian market as Mitchell Services through a reverse merger with ASX-listed Drill Torque. Armed with its long industry pedigree, Mitchell has taken advantage of market low points since 2013 and expanded its drilling fleet. The company acquired assets from Tom Browne Drilling (2014) and Nitro Drilling (2015) to increase its surface fleet across coal and minerals.

In 2018, Radco Technologies was acquired to allow Mitchell to enter the niche market of Underground-In-Seam (UIS) drilling in underground coal mines. At the same time, the company invested significantly in the latest underground diamond drilling equipment to target long-term contracts at underground minerals mines. More recently, the company’s 2019 acquisition of deep-hole directional diamond drilling specialist, Deepcore Drilling, has provided complementary exposure to copper and gold and a strengthened position in Australia’s Victorian goldfields.

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/IN FOCUS: MITCHELL SERVICES

Mitchell’s strategy has been to diversify, leveraging a reputation for safe, highquality operations to target multi-year, multi-rig contracts across several drilling types including surface, underground, mine services (large diameter), and drill and blast.

As a result, Mitchell holds major long-term contracts across these disciplines, while providing multiple service offerings at the one site. To ensure each area’s success, Mitchell focuses on sourcing the best people while providing clients and crews with the latest drilling technology. On the brand’s 2013 re-entry to the Australian market, the decision was made to expand across coal and minerals with a focus on gold, base metals and metallurgical coal. This strategy resulted in long-term contract wins across Australia with Anglo American, BHP, Newmont, South32, Glencore, Evolution Mining and Peabody Energy. The long-term

work ensured Mitchell was able to attract the top talent re-entering the drilling workforce after the mining downturn.

Mitchell’s Australian operations initially focused on opportunities in Queensland.

However, continuity of surface drilling operations in Queensland’s major coal and minerals provinces is impacted by the annual summer wet season. This prompted Mitchell to seek opportunities elsewhere and build a business that is now well established in mining hubs within five states – Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia.

Innovation In the late 1990s, Mitchell led the way in coal seam gas drilling, with innovations in drilling techniques, rig performance and safety. The need to remain at the forefront of innovation was a key pillar of Mitchell’s successful market re-entry. While the

market remained significantly depressed and margins were thin, Mitchell saw this as an opportunity to innovate without committing significant capital expenditure.

Electronic drill plods and data warehousing that provided significant value to the client – as well as Mitchell’s monthly invoicing and performance analysis – were some of the company’s first innovations. Mitchell was the first contractor in Australia to acquire the latest underground drilling technology for new contracts with Evolution Mining and South32. One type of rig acquired was the MDR700 – the first mobile underground diamond rig in Australia equipped with a diamond rod handler, enclosed drive cab and unattended autodrill functionality. Mitchell has continued to work closely with various manufacturers to ensure its fleet is leading edge.

Further strengthening ties to brownfield and mining operations drilling, Mitchell was recently awarded its first multi-rig drill and

Mitchell has invested in the latest underground diamond drilling technology 14

Coring Magazine #13

blast contract. The long-term agreement allowed the company to invest in stateof-the-art equipment, purchasing three brand new rigs with remote operations capability. Mitchell continues to invest in innovation that benefits site support, operations and safety. Eliminating manual handling and remote rig communications are a significant part of that investment.

A dedicated innovation team has been established with a General Manager of Business Improvement and Innovation joining the leadership team in 2019.

Safety – Be Sure. Be Safe.

The company’s founders built the business on ensuring its staff return home safely after every shift with health and safety being priority number one. Mitchell’s ‘Safety – Be Sure. Be Safe.’ mantra is part of a holistic approach to safety culture on all of its sites.

The concept ensures staff fully understand

their roles and activities, so that they can identify risk and the actions necessary to ensure safe and efficient operations.

This approach has delivered results and won Mitchell many safety awards including the 2020 Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy professional excellence being awarded to Mitchell’s General Manager, People and Risk, Josh Bryant; 2019 Australian Prospect Mining contractor miner of the year and 2018 Australian Prospect Mining safety advocacy award.

An exciting future Today, Mitchell Services is an Australian market leader, driven by a Board and management team with hands-on drilling experience. Executive Chairman, Nathan Mitchell works alongside directors, Peter Miller and Scott Tumbridge who sold their own businesses, Drill Torque and Deepcore Drilling into the group,

representing unparalleled industry experience within the Australian market, proving instrumental in setting the group’s strategic direction for continued growth.

Mitchell has grown from AUD 33 million FY16 revenue to AUD 120 million in FY19 with guidance of AUD 170-180 million in FY20, despite COVID-19’s impact. In the same period, average operating rig count has risen from 17.8 in 2015 to 81.3 in the March 2020 quarter with approximately 100 rigs in the fleet. Mitchell’s CEO, Andrew Elf said the picture was generally optimistic for drilling in 2020, as evidenced by 2019 Australian exploration investment increasing by 15 % to a seven-year high of USD 1.53 billion according to S&P Global Market Intelligence. ‘The overall outlook is positive, and this is playing out in increasing rig utilization and productivity, and greater diversification across commodities, geography and drilling type. We expect major producers will continue to focus on

Large-diameter drilling in Queensland’s Bowen Basin Drillers’ trusted publication

15

/IN FOCUS: MITCHELL SERVICES

maximizing existing operations, especially in gold, copper and metallurgical coal.

Mitchell’s pipeline of identified opportunities remains strong and demand for drilling services continues to increase, particularly among large multi-national producers.’

Australian Bureau of Statistics data for the December 2019 quarter estimates Australian mineral exploration expenditure was up 5 % over the September quarter and 26.4 % compared with the December 2018 quarter. However, exploration on new deposits was up only 0.5 % compared with 8.1 % for existing deposits, while meters drilled on brownfield projects rose 8.7 % but declined by 18 % for greenfield. Mitchell’s history in the drilling industry extends 50 years and it is this long-term knowledge and experience that has positioned the business for continued success. C

For more information Visit: www.mitchellservices.com.au

The Mitchell team at their global headquarters in Brisbane, Australia

We find it, so you can fix it.

Don’t let downtime get in the way of your drilling operations.

Choose Coretool and we can help you identify the right solution, find the part you need, and get it to you fast: wherever you are in the world.

coretool.com | +64 21 0283 1570 | orders@coretool.com

16

Coring Magazine #13

SURFACE DRILL RIG

The latest outcome of the team who designs the “difference�.

BD1200S BARKOM - innovative design, dependable manufacture, reliable performance for the freedom to drill wherever and whenever.

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/CORING SURVEY

Unearthing 15 of the industry’s most successful drilling contractors based on 2019 results

Top 15 drilling contractors by mineral exploration revenue, (million USD)

Note 2019 / 2017

500 459

443

400

300 255.5 235 199.3

200

128

134

n/a

114.8* 115

112.7*

100

0

Boart Longyear

Major Drilling

Foraco

Boyles Bros.

Capital Drilling*

96

Orbit

103.5 98

Mining

89.9 n/a

Mitchell Services

89

97

87.4

83

76

58

51.9

55

Explomin Perforaciones

Layne, Company

46.1

35

Energold

24.6 n/a

Drilling and Exploration

23

18.7

Kati Oy

Top 15 drilling contractors by number of mineral exploration drill rigs 2019 / 2017

700 635 575

564 531

525

350 290 240

235

221 176

175

n/a 103

n/a

96

95 67

0

Boart Longyear

Major Drilling

Foraco

Orbit

Boyles Bros.

Mitchell Services

73

Capital Drilling*

91

134

117

Layne, Company

72

60

Explomin Perforaciones

67

62

55

76

Mining

43

Energold

40

n/a

Drilling and Exploration

14

12

Kati Oy

*Coring was not provided with Capital Drilling’s and Orbit Garant’s mineral exploration revenue and the number of rigs devoted only to this type of drilling. For that reason, we have included the overall FY2019 revenues and the number of drill rigs of the two companies, as outlined within their annual reports. The exact numbers for mineral exploration may be quite different.

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Coring gathered relevant statistics to compile and then rank the industry’s global drilling contractors, based on 2019 annual results. In compiling our data, where possible, Coring considered annual revenue earned solely from mineral exploration drilling services (diamond drilling and RC), coupled with the number of drill rigs devoted to these specific drilling styles, irrespective of contractors’ additional drilling services.

Coring attempted to connect with all contractors that we knew of and found suitable. It is important to note that some contractors did not respond for whatever reason, therefore, Coring sourced and included annual results, and the number of drills as outlined within public reports. Other contractors have been omitted from our statistics by their choice. From our point of view, there are five or even more contractors that qualify for the statistics.

The amounts stated in the statistics are rounded up to one decimal place or the nearest integer. Foreign currencies have been converted to US dollars for the sake of consistency.

After compiling annual results for 2019, we decided to compare them with our statistics for 2017, and see if market conditions improved during this twoyear period of time.

Our team remains focused on updating and expanding our statistics regularly, and we urge drilling contractors to contact us, should they want to be involved and subsequently listed.

For comments, please contact us by emailing martina@coringmagazine.com

Coring Magazine #13

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/PRODUCT REVIEW

Built to explore

Multi-Power’s compact, Portable Centrifuge Mud Cleaning System

by Thomas Ulm, Sales Manager at Multi-Power Products Ltd.

Remote mineral exploration drilling is difficult.

Rig mobilization, supply chain logistics, crew transportation, equipment maintenance, and water supply each pose potential risk through unforeseen delays or unexpected trials.

Such is life operating off the beaten path. The phrase, ‘if it was easy, everyone would do it’ often comes to mind when navigating the seemingly never ending list of challenges that exploring ‘off the grid’ poses. Industry interest and 20

enthusiasm naturally intensifies when drilling equipment manufacturers take the time to innovate existing bulky and complicated systems with superior design features that embrace new technologies and aim to make exploration drilling easier. Multi-Power Products’ (MPP) Portable Centrifuge System (PCS) is evidence of such – pardon the pun – groundbreaking transformation.

The PCS features unmatched and essential remote exploration design – compact, portable, occupying a small footprint with an easy-to-maintain, simple hydraulic drive system that reduces water consumption and increases drilling productivity. Featuring helicopter and man-portable design, the PCS is a closed-loop, drilling fluid recycling system that reduces diamond drill water consumption by up to 90 %. Design simplicity, easy operation, and absolute portability backed by Multi-Power’s dedication to customer service deem the PCS an ideal inclusion at exploration drilling projects.

Simple solids separation MPP’s PCS closed-loop, drilling fluid recycling system can be applied to any diamond drill.

‘Closed-loop’ simply means that drilling fluids flow from mixing tank to drill string to the centrifuge system and back again without water discharge or sump requirements.

The system comprises a hydraulic Coring Magazine #13

motor-driven centrifuge assembly, diesel power unit, control panel, two hydraulicdriven impeller-style fluid pumps, and a 1135 L (300 gal) holding tank. The hydraulicdriven impeller pump transfers drilling fluid from the drill collar to the centrifuge’s inlet – centrifugal force and an internal auger separate and discharge drill cutting solids while distributing cleaned drilling fluid to the holding tank. The ‘cleaned’ fluid is then pumped from the holding tank and ‘recycled’ back to the drill’s existing mud tank for reuse.

Go anywhere at a fraction of the cost PCS’ three-module footprint assumes a mere 8.23 m (27 sq ft), with a slight but mighty total weight of 1077.28 kg (2375 lb).

Heli- and man-portable, the PCS can venture anywhere – from the depths of Ecuador’s jungles to the dizzying mountainous heights of British Columbia and Yukon Territory.

MPP’s PCS has also been put to work on mining sites in Suriname and the North American mining hub of Elko, Nevada.

Easy to operate hydraulic design MPP design with simplicity in mind, and the PCS will be a welcomed addition to any fleet. Removing what had been the obligatory, conventional generator and replacing complicated electrical panels with a straightforward hydraulic system will warrant a collective sigh of relief from drill mechanics. The hydraulic system includes a tandem gear pump, flow control valves, piston motor-driven centrifuge and hydraulic-driven submersible transfer pumps. Its configuration is genuinely easyto-operate, maintain and troubleshoot.

Cleaner and safer MPP’s PCS boasts 90 % water conservation with reduced drilling fluid and additive costs. ‘Green’ in design, PCS minimizes the environmental impact of drilling returns by eliminating the need for excavated sumps and pits. It also yields a lower volume, which makes for easier storage and transportation of the solids and drill cuttings, resulting in a cleaner, and therefore safer drilling site.

Improved productivity Cleaned, non-abrasive mud reduces unnecessary wear and tear on expensive drilling tools, and reduced water consumption results in improved productivity due to a reduction in down time caused by water supply issues.

PCS’ MVP (most valued product) stats • • •

• •

•

Lightweight, modular design (1077 kg or 1.07 tonne total system weight); Man and heli-portable; Built for remote exploration conditions featuring simple, easyto-operate and maintain design; Processing capacity up to 40 GPM/150 LPM; Diesel/hydraulic-driven configuration eliminates the need for generators, VFD/electric controls; Centrifuge operates at 3900 RPM with a 9 in x 35 in (22.86 cm x 88.90 cm) bowl, yielding 3 to 5 micron separation. C

About the company Multi-Power Products is a Canadianbased drill manufacturer offering a complete line of surface and underground diamond core and reverse circulation equipment, focused on portable and compact design with 36 years of successful exploration drilling experience behind them.

Multi-Power’s Portable Centrifuge System or PCS is for sale and lease both locally and internationally.

Unearth more by visiting: www.multipowerproducts.com.

Multi-Power Products’ Portable Centrifuge System Drillers’ trusted publication

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/PRODUCT REVIEW

Ready to go beyond your expectations?

Son-Mak: proud to deliver, consistently

by Cem Hizar, Sales Executive at Son-Mak

After a challenging day, nothing brings more joy and pride than when you exceed client, and your own expectations. This motivates us to continue doing what we do best.

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Regardless of your location – in the dustbowl, the toughest winter conditions, or hundreds of meters underground; we are right there with you during your challenging moments, and we can relieve some of that burden from your shoulders.

Established in 1983, Son-Mak is a worldclass manufacturer of exploration drilling rigs and equipment. We design and produce

hydraulic crawler and skid rigs, underground and surface rigs, wireline drilling equipment, triplex pumps and grouting plants.

Levent 2002 RX-5 Levent 2002 RX-5 is a fully hydraulic diamond core drilling rig, designed for surface research drillings. The powerful rig has been meticulously designed to Coring Magazine #13

provide high penetration and excellent results while factoring the toughest field conditions. It is such a successful in-field assistant that will pay for itself in no time, given its many advantages.

It can be used for conventional or wireline drilling with optimal performance features to deliver exceptional rotation speed, with a power and rotation unit aperture variance of 60 mm to 122.60 mm (2.36 in to 4.83 in) (B-P) diameter.

The power and wireline units, mixer main winch control and mud pump are accessed from the convenience of an

operator panel. The operator panel displays and controls the rig’s diesel engine, positioning, advancement and its hold back force, feed force and rotation speed.

Levent 2002 RX-5 can be mounted on three different chassis frames: skid, wheel or crawler.

As progress is made using the rig’s hydraulic cylinder, precise settings can be applied and undertaken. The automatic rod removal and clamping feature is both safety conscious and efficient resulting in high progression rates, optimal core percentages and cost and time saving.

Levent 3003 Designed for underground, surface core, conventional and exploration tunnel drilling, the Levent 3003 is a fully hydraulic diamond drilling rig with many accessories.

Its high quality and functional design ensures that you have everything you need in the field. Providing an unmatched drilling experience, Levent 3003 assumes challenging and difficult scenarios regardless of conditions or formations.

Levent 3003’s drilling rig rotation speed, power and rotation unit aperture diameter has been designed for optimal performance in BO-HO diameter wireline or conventional drilling.

Upon request, Levent 3003 can be manufactured with an electrical motor, or ex proof – ATEX-certified to enable most secure work fields.

Specifications •

•

•

•

Levent 3003 drill has proven its capability of drilling under any conditions with its 90 kW (120 hp), 1450 rpm electrical motor and 119 kW (160 hp), 2200 rpm diesel engine, delivering up to 1250 m (4100 ft) using B-size, and 850 m (2788 ft) using N-size, and 550 m (1804 ft) using H-size.

Optional 850 mm (33.46 in) and 1800 mm (70.90 in) rotary head stroke lengths provide the best possible success even within the toughest terrain.

This fully hydraulic drilling rig represents the latest, most advanced, and safety-conscious technology with rod tightening and removal, pressing and wireline winch all operated from a safe control panel, mounted on a separate chassis.

A standard Levent 3003 consists of three main parts: drilling unit, control panel and power unit. The rig also has the option of being mounted onto a standard crawler, a narrow crawler for underground works or a wide crawler for surface works if preferred. C

For more information Visit: www.son-mak.com.tr Levent 2002 RX-5 Drillers’ trusted publication

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/PRODUCT REVIEW

Drillware closes the loop on wasted water with the Environ SRS Centrifuge

by Liam Cooley, Manufacturing at Drillware

Under typical conditions in the field, it can take up to 577 600 L of water to complete the average 1000-meter N-size hole.

In remote or sensitive areas, the costs associated with delivering this water are substantial, the logistics are challenging, and the process is unnecessarily wasteful.

With this in mind, Drillware recently launched the Environ SRS Centrifuge – a compact, high performance centrifuge capable of drilling 1000 m N-size with just 2400 L of water.

The Environ SRS Centrifuge ‘closes the loop’ for water purification and solids removal in a simple, compact package for any application

With no water discharge, the SRS Centrifuge is a closed-loop system that separates liquids from solids down to the smallest micron level. By returning pure, clean water to the drill string when it’s needed and continuously purifying the water when it’s not, the SRS Centrifuge helps to maximize the life of downhole tools while maintaining an optimal penetration rate. Solids are easily stored and transported, and hundreds of thousands of liters of water are spared.

Built from simple, serviceable components, the entire system is reliable, easy to set up, and requires no additional technician to operate. Clean water is sent down the drill string, while dirty water returns from the hole and is fed through a prefilter to remove any burlap and splinters.

The water is then collected in the dirty mud tank, where solids are kept in suspension to maintain an even consistency. From there, it is sent to the centrifuge.

Applying centrifugal forces around 1700 times the force of gravity, an internal auger separates the smallest of solids from the water. Solids exit the system with the consistency of drywall compound and can be easily bagged, stored or transported off-site, eliminating the need for a permitted sump. With solids removed, the centrifuge returns clean water to the active mud tank, where it is made ready to be sent back down the hole. When clean water is not needed at the drill, the system recirculates the water through the dirty mud tank and centrifuge, continuously purifying it.

By defaulting to continuous recirculation, the SRS Centrifuge can run without supervision and without worrying about overflows. Powered by a simple control unit that doesn’t require active management, the system is easy to implement, train on and

24

operate – requiring only minimal interaction from the driller or driller’s helper, so they can remain focused on the drilling at hand.

Unlike other systems, the Environ SRS Centrifuge was designed for maximum versatility, with configurations for fly, skid, and underground drilling all possible.

Its small footprint makes it one of the most versatile closed-loop solids removal systems in the world – increasing tool life and reducing water consumption by up to 90 %, all from a portable package that can be deployed virtually anywhere. Simply put, there’s no better solution to eliminate permitted sumps, trucking water to the site, or discharged drill fluids today.

Drillware is planning to make the Environ SRS Centrifuge available on a rental basis in the coming months. Please visit the website at Drillwaretools.com for updates on availability. C Coring Magazine #13

INTRODUCING DEVICO’S LATEST INNOVATION

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DEVIATION CONTROL IS DEVICO Overshot Xpress, continuous gyro surveying up to 100m/min whilst retrieving the core tube, leaving no impact on drilling productivity. // Maximizing bit-on-face time while controlling deviation // Compact 1.2m length, increasing operator safety // Precise, quick and strong as an ‘Ox’

www.devico.com

/ISSUE SPECIAL: HOLE STABILIZATION

What happens down the hole, stays in the core

by Juan-Luis Valenzuela, Regional Manager at Matex

Drillers and geologists have long agreed to disagree over what takes priority at site – hole completion versus optimal core recovery and sample. But something we all agree on is that hole stabilization is critical, irrespective of focus or priority. With the right products on hand, mineral exploration drilling can achieve both without prioritizing one goal over the other.

Drilling fluid or mud is an industry staple, with a seemingly basic recipe – simply combine bentonite and water to yield the familiar product. Extensive research led Matex – a Canadian-based fluid and lubricant specialists to formulate ‘Sand Drill’ – a superior and innovative alternative to basic drilling fluid.

Sand Drill’s unique formulation delivers a drilling fluid capable of stabilizing the most difficult sand and gravel formations.

A unique blend of dry polymers prevents holes from collapsing and core from crumbling, and in many situations, it has not only replaced but surpassed bentonite’s ability to simultaneously cool and stabilize, particularly in areas with extreme overburden and waste material.

When pre-mixed with Matex’ ‘Torqueless’, polymer grains contained within Matex’ Sand Drill are then encapsulated by a lubricant film that causes a chemical reaction resulting in longer, stronger polymer chains.

The protective film adheres to borehole walls and core, stabilizing the hole and improving core recovery even in heavily broken ground conditions. Torqueless is a vegetable-based, water-soluble lubricant specially formulated to be used either alone or in combination with other products to enhance performance through continuous cooling of the bit, while reducing wear and rust accumulation on the drill string.

26

Talking the torque A client approached Matex to focus on improving one drill rig’s performance using its products as a means of comparison against two other brands of fluid and lubricants already onsite. The mission was made clear to every supplier – successfully complete a hole to geologist specifications (target depth, casing retrieval, with as few products as possible). Matex accepted the challenge but not without first assessing the situation – 4300 m (14 100 ft) above sea level, drilling 350- to 400-meter (1150 ft to 1310 ft) holes, drilling through approximately 60 m (200 ft) of waste material before hitting bedrock. Most holes could not be completed to desired depth, and retrieval of the set casing after drilling through the overburden zone was considered a bonus.

Adversity with a capital ‘A’ Harsh weather, high altitude (reduced oxygen) and varying ground formations were just some of the challenges, coupled with poor core recovery, which slowed the operation significantly and reduced productivity. The hole’s upper presented with approximately 60 m (200 ft) of overburden, requiring coring, and setting the casing was the only way to ensure the hole remained open. Once the rig hit bedrock, competency was established Coring Magazine #13

Drillers’ trusted publication

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/ISSUE SPECIAL: HOLE STABILIZATION

Warming up at 4000 m (13 123.36 ft) above sea level but was abrasive until it cleared at 150 m (500 ft) depth. The formation then became unstable, water return was lost and core recovery was near to impossible. The driller had to stop between 250 m to 300 m (820 ft to 980 ft) due to high torque and clay swelling. The onsite geologist was understandably frustrated at not reaching the ore body, as was the drilling contractor as the lost casing was an additional unfactored cost.

The solution Matex’ technical team opted for an inhouse fluid system based on Sand Drill to stabilize the overburden and broken formations. Torqueless enhanced the polymers and reduced in-hole torque, and ‘DD-955’ inhibited swelling clays. Premixing dry polymers with a vegetable-based emollient provides maximum lubrication,

so that each polymer grain unravels evenly, ensuring a proper and consistent mix to reduce clumping and product waste.

After increasing the water pH to 9, the technical team pre-mixed four liters (132.26 fl oz) of Torqueless with two liters (67.63 fl oz) of Sand Drill and half a liter (16.91 fl oz) of DD-955. The solution was added to a thousand-liter (264.17 gal) water tank obtaining close to 55 seconds

‘Field technicians know from experience that the best products don’t guarantee success. The most critical aspect of any drilling fluid is to maintain consistency.’

28

of viscosity with the drilling fluid.

Field technicians know from experience that the best products don’t guarantee success.

The most critical aspect of any drilling fluid is to maintain consistency. So the first step in this situation was to mix Matex’ Torqueless and Sand Drill mixture for approximately 10 to 12 minutes, although timing will vary according to individual mixing systems.

Coring Magazine #13

Results speak for themselves The initial 60 m (200 ft) of waste material proved the litmus test, even surprising the onsite skeptical driller who was able to drill through a challenging zone and set casing without the need for bentonite. The team noted the torque gauge was lower than it had been at previously drilled holes, resulting in faster completion of the overburdened zone.

An additional liter (33.81 fl oz) of Torqueless was introduced into the annular space, minimizing the possibility of casing loss after hole completion. Water began depleting at approximately 150 m (500 ft) depth, and so the technical team increased the amount of Sand Drill to the mix. Despite being unable to prevent water loss, full tube retrieval continued. The consistent 60-second mix provided excellent stabilization and lubrication, allowing the operation to pass through the swelling clay zone down to the targeted 400-meter (1310 ft) depth.

The onsite geologist was very pleased with the core recovery yield and hole depth, thereby instructing the crew to drill the next hole an additional 100 m (330 ft) deeper if the same H-sized diameter could be maintained. To quote the supervisor, ‘This [core sample] evidences that what happens down the hole, stays in the core’. The client subsequently assigned all three drill rigs to the crew, and the entire project was drilled using Matex environmentally safe drilling fluids until weather indicated that it was time to break until the next season.

The drilling crew is skeptical at using only three buckets

Matex For over thirty years, Matex has manufactured an array of high-performance, environmentally safe drilling fluids and proprietary vegetable oil lubricants.

Its diverse product range suits various ground conditions and applications, with Matex Sand Drill proving popular with drillers worldwide, given its ability to achieve hole stabilization while assisting with core recovery drilling in challenging formations including overburden, sand and gravel. C

For more information

Visit: www.matexdrillingfluids.ca to learn more about Matex’ array of products.

Drillers’ trusted publication

Matex’ Sand Drill 29

/ISSUE SPECIAL: HOLE STABILIZATION

A grounded approach to wellbore stabilization

by Walker Dillabough, Drilling Fluids Manager at Di-Corp

When we consider all the variables that can add to or subtract from the successful completion of a drilling program, one universally stands out: ground condition.

Millions of meters of exploration has surely given us a healthy respect for the fact that ground is different everywhere and can vary wildly from hole to hole, even on the same property. Wellbore stability is of prime concern but is a very general term. It can apply to anything from the collaring of a hole in unconsolidated overburden, to intercepting fractured and/or vugular formations thousands of feet below the rig. So, how do you approach a dynamic and fragile ground condition that could cause lost time, core, tooling and data?

30

The key to hole stabilization is understanding and managing the unique ground conditions that are present at every hole. If one agrees with that, then one must also agree that those who are in the best position to proactively do something are the drillers and drilling assistants working at site. They are responsible for mixing and administering drilling fluids and additives on a daily basis, monitoring the effectiveness and impact on hole stability. It is therefore worthwhile to invest the time and resources in these key people to ensure they have a working understanding of the chemistry involved, the reasons for choosing certain fluids and additives under certain conditions, and the overall effect the fluids can have on the Coring Magazine #13

1. Early identification and education The earlier you know about a problem, or the potential for a problem, the better. ‘Early’ equates to before a drill rig is ever mobilized to a site.

Previous geological data collection, either from early exploration or known problem ground such as kimberlite should be communicated to a fluids provider as early as possible so that they can provide the best possible suite of fluid additives. Open dialog with the fluids professional ensures preparation. Equipping your on-site team with the right information ahead of time is an often-overlooked opportunity. Di-Corp offer regular on-site and in-shop ‘Mud Schools’ where our drilling fluids experts arm drillers and drilling assistants with vital

success of the drilling program. After all, they have the most direct influence on the eventual outcome.

As producers of Drillers Edge tooling and Earth Pro drilling fluids, Di-Corp assumes a different approach to working with customers. While many companies focus customer support efforts on sending a representative to site once a problem develops, Di-Corp prefer to partner with customers in an effort to reduce concerns before they occur.

Di-Corp’s three-pronged drilling fluids service model focuses on 3 ‘E’s – Early, Engineer, and Execute. It allows for easy and swift focus on a range of drilling challenges, including hole or wellbore stabilization.

Drillers’ trusted publication

information to manage fluid effectiveness, mitigate problems, and communicate concerns efficiently.

2. Engineer a plan You aren’t working in your backyard, or twenty minutes from your fluid supplier’s warehouse. Most times, you’re working in the most remote location, with limited seasonal access, and often underground.

Telephoning is not always an option, and a fluids professional can’t appear on site at your command to assist with troubleshooting.

Di-Corp has you covered. Using Di-Corp’s ‘Fast Track Fluids Tool’ (FTFT), customers can employ forward thinking and preparation long before a bit hits the ground.

The FTFT is a one-page printable document providing insight to every stage of drilling fluid utilization from pre-project planning

Di-Corp Drilling Fluids Manager, Walker Dillabough (left) provides on-site mud training 31

/ISSUE SPECIAL: HOLE STABILIZATION

to real-time problem solving at a drill rig.

Each FTFT is customized to the rig, crew, ground conditions, location, products and individual preferences. It also incorporates any products the drilling team will have on site, as well as recipes customized to the mixing set-up and preferences. The FTFT also includes critical information regarding geology, known or expected issues or problems, and detailed solutions that the drillers can employ using only what is readily available on site.

Di-Corp’s FTFT provides drilling contractors with an advantage in the bid process by demonstrating a solid plan to minimize downtime and operate efficiently by devising solutions before problems or issues exist.

For drillers, it means no more guess work or waiting – and sometimes for days – for a field technician to diagnose and solve an issue. It equips drillers with the ability to seamlessly solve drilling fluids-related woes.

3. Execute early

Wet rock is weak rock

Reaction speed to changing or deteriorating ground conditions is paramount to success, so it’s advisable to apply the FTFT as soon as a problem is identified. Drillers receive optimal data every 1.5 m to 3 m (4.92 ft to 9.84 ft) of drilling – so they can pinpoint when a wellbore goes from good to bad, and when to alter the fluids presentation to assist according to the FTFT. Whether the remedy is a bentonite grout application, or switching to a formation binding polymer such as Earth Pro MULTIMIX, access to geological data, a plan, and informed drill hands ensures that problem solving a stabilization issue is as easy as ‘1, 2, 3’.

This is repeated throughout Di-Corp mud school sessions. Formations that were overlooked can reappear if continually exposed to penetrating water invasion from drilling fluids. This is especially true of sedimentary rocks such as shale, clay, and sand. The priority is to prevent water from entering rock wherever that rock may be weakened.

Grounded in fundamentals When wellbore stability issues arise, there are fundamental concerns that every driller and drilling assistant need to make note of.

Low cost solutions are often the best solutions Unlike production well drilling, coring teams are typically comfortable to ‘wall-up’ an unstable formation, so long as core continues to be extracted from the ground. Solutions such as grouting or cementing a troublesome weak formation are a great way to assist with stabilizing a wellbore, however, it can be just as easy to squish water-softened bentonite chips into a weakened formation for a quick, low-cost stabilization job. Mud professionals

Di-Corp’s ‘Fast Track Fluids Tool’ (FTFT) is a one-pager that assists drillers to optimize drilling fluids, avoid problems, and minimize downtime 32

Coring Magazine #13

pride themselves on these kinds of simple, solid, and creative fixes. Simple solutions can and do work, and they are so often overlooked.

Address the root cause Do treat the symptoms, but don’t stop there. Be sure to address the root cause of a wellbore stability problem. Is a shale formation squeezing the rods? If so, add lubricant to keep things moving, while considering chemically treating the shale to prevent water absorption which may have led to the problem in the first place. Solid plans address root causes and mitigate them from the start.

The secret to hole stabilization is knowing the ground and knowing that it can change at every hole. You may already be thinking: ‘This doesn’t apply to my operation. I’ve been drilling on this property for XX years.

I know the ground.’ Di-Corp’s approach to drilling fluid supply and service builds on your knowledge. We actively seek it and then we

assist in sharing it with driller’s helpers and new drillers who work on your projects, and build it into a drilling fluids plan that will help you put ‘more rock in the box’ every shift. As a key supplier and producer of tooling and fluids for the international mining industry, Di-Corp combines customer knowledge with our own to develop innovative Drillers Edge and Earth Pro products, grounded in realworld experience. C

For more information Learn more about Di-Corp’s Drilling Fluids Service Model for Mineral Exploration by visiting: di-corp.com/about/resources/dfmodel

Earth Pro MULTIMIX formation binding polymer allows for rapid changes to the fluid presentation to correct problems on the fly

• B20 Drill Heads • 12HH Chuck Assy’s • “H” & “P” Hydraulic Clamps • Quality Repair Parts • Jaw Sets

WWW.PROLENC.COM

Prince George, Canada • Call 250.563.8899 Drillers’ trusted publication

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/ISSUE SPECIAL: HOLE STABILIZATION

Mudex simplifies lost circulation material

by Dave Williams, Director at Mudex

X FRAC (DD) was formulated to streamline lost circulation remediation, minimize lost production time, and reduce the amount of additional drilling fluid to displace lost circulation material (LCM) from the rod string. Inspired by oil field lost circulation technology, X FRAC (DD) contains a mix of dissimilar sized materials that quickly and easily hydrate in either clean make-up water or any drilling fluid; and it’s conveniently stored in a 15-kilogram (33.07 lb) waterproof container capable of holding 20-liters (5.28 gal).

Recipe for success Ingredients • •

half an empty standard Mudex 20-liter (676.28 fl oz) bucket of water one-third (6.66 L or 225.20 fl oz) of a 20-liter bucket of X FRAC (DD)

Method 1.

partially hydrate 1–3 buckets of X FRAC (DD) 15 minutes before scheduled core tube assembly pull 2. remove the tube before commencing 3. ensure that any lost circulation material (LCM) is delivered with an open rod 4. calculate ‘bottoms up’ time into the loss zone 5. pour the pre-hydrated bucket(s) of X FRAC (DD) into the rod string 6. insert the X FRAC compressible displacement plug 7. ensure that the bottom hole assembly has a six-meter (19.68 ft) clearance from the LCM once the lost circulation material is displaced, allowing 15–30 minutes hydration 8. allow sufficient flushing time so that the LCM displaces into the loss zones 9. continue drilling according to site procedure.

During a core barrel pull, and once the core tube assembly is removed from the rod string, the pre-hydrated X FRAC (DD) is poured into the rod string, and then a X FRAC displacement plug is compressed and inserted into the rod string immediately after the pre-hydrated X FRAC (DD). The rod string is then reconnected, and fluid is pumped into the rod string to displace the X FRAC (DD) out of the drill bit and into the annulus. Once the displacement plug is pushed out of the drill bit, the plug is destroyed by the bit and becomes additional lost circulation material.

X FRAC (DD) in unmixed raw form 34

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Situation • • • • • •

P-size casing: 273 m (898.95 ft) H-size casing: 640 m (2099.74 ft) Bit type: N-size Hole depth: 917.8 m (3011.15 ft) Geology: Porphory Formation issues: Fluid return ceased soon after H-size was cased. A three-meter run (9.84 ft) core recovery varied between 90 % and 100 %, with fluid static head estimated to be at 150 m (492.13 ft) below the surface.

Regular use of current lost circulation remediation had failed to increase fluid static head or provide any fluid return.

Observations The hole was drilled without major issues, other than zero fluid return for close to two weeks. Regular LCM applications were ineffective in maintaining fluid level, so it was decided to introduce and trial Mudex’ X FRAC (DD) in the hope that it would assist to maintain consistent fluid static head level while improving fluid return.

Improvements in static fluid level height would not only provide useful data, but also suggest X FRAC (DD)’s efficacy.

Accessibility and availability of make-up water was another onsite issue. A pumping station continuously pumped make-up water to the drill site while the rig was operational, with almost zero opportunity to refill the settling sumps. This posed an operational risk, as a pumping station breakdown would have a chain reaction-like effect, shutting down the rig until the make-up water pump could be repaired. Loss zone depth was also unknown yet suspected to be beneath the H-size casing, as subsequent formations were competent with several clay zones and porous formations in the core trays, suggesting multiple loss zones.

The crew experimented with the newly introduced product – varying ratio, water type, and hydration timing to yield an effective LCM. Mudex’ X FRAC (DD) was first hydrated in two five-liter (1.32 gal) batches, using fresh water to hydrate the first trial batch, and the active rig tank’s mixed drilling fluid to hydrate the second trial batch, and both mixed easily.

Ideal hydration ratio One-third of a drum of X FRAC (DD), which is approximately 5 kg (11.02 lb), mixed with 10 L (2.64 gal) of fluid hydrated quickly and Drillers’ trusted publication

X FRAC (DD) being introduced to the borehole evenly, although pre-mixed drilling fluid appeared to mix more evenly and maintain suspension better when compared to the freshwater mix. Following 20 minutes hydration time, dissimilarities between the two fluids became marginal and both X FRAC (DD) batches seemed very comparable.

Maximum hydration was capped at 30 L (7.92 gal) of 10 kg (22.05 lb) of total dry product for LCM remediation, allowing for approximately 40 m (131.23 ft) of annular volume or 6.5 m (21.33 ft) of open hole volume. At the end of the 917.70 m (3010.83 ft) run, the core tube was removed and X FRAC (DD) was poured into the now open rod string.

Efficiency and ease of use are additional product advantages. Utilizing the funnel, X FRAC (DD) effortlessly poured into the rod string, resulting in zero wastage from inadvertent spillage. An X FRAC compressible displacement plug was inserted into the rod string after all of the hydrated X FRAC (DD) was poured into the rod string. Once the

rods were connected, the driller commenced pumping the fluid down the rod string at approximately 50 L (13.21 gal) per minute.

It was estimated that it would take between 45 to 50 minutes for X FRAC (DD) material to discharge from the bit face, plus an additional 10 to 15 minutes for X FRAC (DD) to displace from around the barrel and condition the drill hole. A significant spike in water pressure occurred at the 48-minute marker, and the driller worked the rods to assist with displacing the material away from the barrel. The water pressure stabilized to a steady rate of 150 psi after a few minutes. At this time, both water pressure and rod torque were deemed acceptable, the pump was switched off, rods were disconnected, and the core tube assembly was landed as per company procedure.

While pumping the tube down the rod string to seat it, the driller happily reported that he observed slight fluid return for the first time in 10 days.

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/ISSUE SPECIAL: HOLE STABILIZATION

Following the next core tube pull, an additional 30 L (7.93 gal) or 10 kg (22.05 lb) of equivalent dry product was then pumped and displaced before landing the next tube to combat fluid return loss – evidenced during the first and the followup run. The second attempt mirrored the earlier pumping and seating of the tube, although the second attempt yielded a far greater fluid return than the first.

A Mudex representative remained at the rig until night shift handover to familiarize the crew with the product and to insist process be upheld (established hydration etc.). During the following 12-hour shift, returns leveled, with an approximate 50 % improvement by early morning. Fluid return continued to improve and leveled to an acceptable 80–90 % by late afternoon.

Improvements were consistently observed over the next two days, with the sumps requiring slight refilling once per shift, as opposed to constant water pumping.

Prevention is better than cure

The proof is in the returns

X FRAC (DD) is an exceptional preventive tool – used once per 12-hour shift as a 30 L (7.93 gal) ‘pill’ before seating a tube to maintain returns, rather than working backwards and attempting to reclaim what has been lost.

Summary X FRAC (DD) is an efficient remediation tool for filling voids, other than unexpected large cavities, with its different-sized material that swell and act as bridging agents to combat against lost circulation.

With flexible hydration options – fresh water or existing drilling fluid, X FRAC (DD) is easily mixed and ready for reliable use within 20 minutes, serving as an ideal and sustainable lost circulation remediation with its conservative water usage. C

For more information Visit: www.mudex.com.au

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X FRAC (DD) – effective in its simplicity Coring Magazine #13

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/CORING REPORTAGE

PDAC 2020

An album of highlights

by Martina Samarova, Executive Officer at Coring Magazine

The 88th Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) convention took place March 1-4 in the heart of Toronto. As usual, professionals from far and wide gathered to capitalize on the annual event’s myriad opportunities.

The Coring team captured what we believe are PDAC 2020’s interesting moments, appealing booths and innovative equipment.

We have many stories to share, however, pictures speak louder than words, so we’ve compiled an album of highlights for your viewing pleasure.

In early March, COVID-19’s global impact was palpable yet travel restrictions and lockdowns hadn’t been enforced, enabling many to travel to the most anticipated mineral exploration and mining event of the year.

COVID-19’s impact was still felt, reducing attendance by around 10 % to 23 144, compared to 2019’s attendance of 25 843.

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Some confirmed attendees decided to cancel last-minute, either due to personal concern, or following suggested company policy, and in some cases, company mandates.

Pandemic aside, spirits remained high.

Exuberant smiles and conversation replaced handshakes, and widespread liberal sanitizer use was commonplace .

PDAC 2020’s first day was noticeably subdued, although the remaining two days drew animated and curious crowds and revealed more of the PDAC spirit we’ve all come to know and appreciate. Exhibitors excitedly shared and touted their wares, sparking passionate exchanges that could very well prove to be the impetus for future development and innovation.

All the following images were captured across PDAC’s exhibition halls, Trade Show South and Trade Show North, brimming with drilling contractors, manufacturers and suppliers showcasing their impressive equipment and offerings.

The Coring team caught up with various partners, authors and advertisers; bumping into old friends, while befriending some new ones. We look forward to seeing you all again at PDAC 2021. C

Coring – PDAC’s 2020 media partner Coring’s Executive Officer, Martina Samarova proudly stands beside PDAC’s media partners signage, displaying Coring’s prominent logo.

Coring Magazine #13

Boart Longyear’s TRUSUB™ Drilling Optimization and Monitoring System In pre-release phase at PDAC 2020, TRUSUB™ is designed to increase drilling program efficiency. Attendees were invited to join in on the ‘TRUSUB™ Challenge’ testing their own strength while also testing the system’s sensitivity.

Epiroc and Fordia were a united front, exhibiting within a shared booth

Discovery Drill Manufacturer (DDM) Ltd

Epiroc and Fordia joined forces for the second year running, showcasing their latest collective product range including Legends – a new series of core bits honouring favorites from years gone by, their DiscovOre core barrel system, and a lot more.

DDM displayed its impressive EF-Series drill rig at Trade Show South.

Drillers’ trusted publication

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/CORING REPORTAGE

Multi-Power Products’ rig attracted a consistent crowd within Trade Show South

Trade Show North

Multi-Power Products showcased their redesigned heli-portable Grasshopper - RC/DD drill.

The rig’s many features and upgrades add versatility while improving safety and productivity.

The revolutionary all terrain FAT TRUCK as revealed by JexPlore Inc. Equipment

Atom Bits’ Trade Show North booth

Specifically designed to transport up to 8 people or material, FAT TRUCK is the pride and joy of JexPlore Inc. Equipment - a company specializing in the sale and lease of exploration drilling equipment.

Atom Bits team showcasing their Canadianmade diamond drilling products within their busy and popular PDAC booth.

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Northwest Drills’ man-portable NW600 rig as featured at their Trade Show South booth The NW600 rig boasts proven design for quick and easy set up, and simple operation and maintenance to venture virtually anywhere.

Hydracore’s HC1000T heli-portable rig

Prolenc Manufacturing’s shiny B20 lured many into their Trade Show North booth

Hydracore’s heli-portable HC1000T drill rig was just one of many highlights within Trade Show North.

Boasting a 12HH chuck and ‘P’-clamp assembly, Prolenc’s B20 drill head was the talk of PDAC attendees.

Drillers’ trusted publication

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Exploration Mining Geology In this issue: Q&A from the experts: In conversation with Drew Craig, Managing Director at Rocklore Exploration Services Limited Things will never be the same

by Louis Fourie, Owner & Principal at Terra Modelling Services Inc. Redmoor Project: Discovering a world-class underground tin-tungsten resource

by Samuel Bolton, Exploration Geologist at Cornwall Resources Limited Battery metal potential of the Lovelock Mine, Nevada

by Mitchell Smith, President & CEO and Timothy Strong, Project Development Manager at Global Energy Metals Corporation Mining at El Pinguico – the potential crown jewel of Guanajuato mining

by James Anderson, CEO at Vangold Mining

/Q&A FROM THE EXPERTS

In conversation with FROM

THE EXPERTS

Drew Craig Managing Director at Rocklore Exploration Services Limited

Timothy Strong: What were your biggest influences when you first started out in geology?

Drew Craig: I didn’t have the opportunity to study geology whilst at school, but my geography teacher was a closet geologist who recognized my interests in physical geography and the desire to understand the landscape. He gave me a nudge in the right direction and geology was a logical progression. Studying at St Andrews – at the foot of some fantastic Scottish geology, certainly made it a passion.

TS: You started your career in oil and gas. What was the main driver to study mineral exploration and switch to mining?

DC: Coming from Aberdeen, the oil and gas sector was an obvious choice for a geologist with a general geology degree.

I could have gone offshore but opted to keep my feet on solid ground. However, a further degree was needed to advance beyond the geodata analyst work that I had started with. Keeping my options open, Drillers’ trusted publication

Drew Craig

Drew Craig graduated from the University of St. Andrews (Scotland) in 1997 with a Bachelor’s degree in Geology and in 1999, gained a Masters from the Royal School of Mines at Imperial College, London. As a mineral exploration and project management specialist, Drew has a wealth of experience, gained from multiple projects focused on various commodities and deposit types. Drew has worked for a broad range of consultants and companies through his successful consulting company, Rocklore Exploration Services Limited. He currently holds positions across a number of businesses and is a fellow of the Geological Society and Chartered Engineer through the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining. He has participated in several expeditions, including a source-to-sea navigation of the Amazon, and has competed twice in the arduous Marathon des Sables.

I was lucky enough to gain places at Imperial College in both Mineral Exploration and Petroleum Geology Masters courses. I chose ‘MinEx’ as it afforded the opportunity to put into practice a far greater repertoire of technical, scientific and field skills.

TS: Which country has left the strongest impression on you?

DC: Tough question. I have been so very lucky to have worked with some great people and in so many amazing places. They’ve all had different impressions and for good and bad reasons. If I had to pick one, it would probably be the time I spent in Afghanistan.

I was working as a US Department of Defense contractor tasked with developing the mineral sector. From 2013 to 2015, I spent periods working across a range of projects, including: assessing prospective projects around the country; mentoring geologists from the Afghanistan Geological Survey; and assisting the Ministry of Mines

and Petroleum with marketing and the tender of a number of license packages. The geology is truly stunning, especially when viewed from the open door of a helicopter!

Afghanistan is largely unexplored, making it an exploration geologist’s dream. Beyond geology, there was the obvious matter of an ongoing insurgency conflict and the odd earthquake! It made for a challenging time, which on reflection, was hard work yet exhilarating and highly rewarding.

TS: The Afghani Government sought your expertise on minerals policy and industry development. What lies ahead for the country’s mineral development?

DC: It’s been a few years since my involvement in Afghanistan, and regrettably the security situation has yet to reach the tipping point at which mining is going to contribute in a significant way to the prosperity of the Afghan people.

All the organizations offering funding 43

/Q&A FROM THE EXPERTS

and support need to improve their collaboration and coordination. Lamentably, over USD 855 million has been spent in Afghanistan on developing the natural resources sector, and there is little to show for it. The opportunity is there, but it will be another decade at least before significant revenue can be realized.

TS: In terms of geology, what country has been the most interesting and why?

DC: Saudi Arabia. I’ve worked there for various clients and with my own exploration venture, so I’ve accumulated a large number of miles, witnessing a lot of different deposit types. I enjoy working in the desert environment as you can really see the geology. The Arabian Shield represents half of the Arabian-Nubian Shield, and I’ve also worked in Egypt and more

recently, Djibouti. It was a real treat to visit the Afar triple junction and see some very young volcanics in an active rift zone.

TS: You’ve worked extensively throughout the Middle East. What were the region’s main challenges?

DC: The challenges I have experienced in the Middle East are mirrored in many regions – climate, culture, environment, security, plus a range of other factors. This is the reality of exploration and development and therefore exploration geologists need to employ a broad range of skills to be able to work safely and efficiently.

TS: Accessing working capital is one of the greatest challenges in the exploration sector. How do you see the impasse being broken?

DC: There’s plenty of money out there yet most will agree, the junior sector’s processes, or routes to finance have been flawed for many years. Investor access to deals, especially private deals, has historically been limited by nepotistic brokers. What’s needed is a disruptive and innovative approach to empower issuers and enhance access for investors. This is why I’ve been working with the MINEXIA team to develop the NR Private Market platform1. We’re seeking to emulate the likes of AirBnB and Uber, using online technology to provide the necessary communication and transactional functionality.

TS: You mentioned MINEXIA. You’re also involved with Enthalpy. Tell us more.

DC: For a little over a year, I’ve been expanding Enthalpy’s presence in EMEA region. Enthalpy services the project development and execution needs of capitalintensive global industries – mining, oil and gas, infrastructure, energy and utilities. The focus is less on geology and more on project management but it’s an opportune time to help clients raise their compliance standards while optimizing their people, processes, and platforms to deliver complex projects.

TS: What’s the most interesting deposit type you’ve worked on and why?

Drew Craig examining rock outcrops in Egypt

DC: There’s something about large-scale, open-pit mining that is undeniably attractive, especially within an interesting country.

Some of the most obvious examples are porphyries and I had the pleasure of working at the Reko Diq project in Pakistan as the Prefeasibility Study Resource Manager.

1 www.nrprivatemarket.com 44

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It is an amazing deposit and proved a challenge with such a big geology team and up to eight drill rigs. That was a real eye-opener for me, working with deep specialists from Antofagasta and Barrick, and subsequently playing a part in the international arbitration that has unfortunately led to this project remaining undeveloped to date.

TS: Much of your career has been focused on the Arabian Nubian Shield.

What are the barriers to minerals development in these nations?

DC: The legislative framework, comprising the mining law and the mining regulations, is invariably the greatest barrier. Security of tenure and threat of nationalization have been ranked highly as sectoral risks in recent years. There does, however, seem to be some movement. The Saudi 2030 Vision project aims to improve investment access to foreign entities. Recent oil prices suggest that we may see further strategic pivots by sovereign petrostates to rebalance their natural resource income. With that, I hope we’ll also see more states offering greater and free access to the vast amounts of data that they’ve accumulated over decades of work.

TS: You’ve worked in ‘frontier districts’. Where are the next big deposits likely to be found?

DC: I think there are two key areas. Firstly, those states that until now have been adverse or inaccessible to foreign investment; and secondly, those areas where climate change is making access possible. On the former, I’ve already mentioned Afghanistan and Pakistan. Clearly, you need a great deal more than geological savvy to operate in these areas. On the latter, I think we’ll see more in the high Arctic, notably Greenland and Scandinavia and northern Russia.

But I also wouldn’t discount the advent of neo-frontier districts, for example Cyprus, where data from extensive historical mining, coupled with new technology, may lead to the prospect of new discoveries.

TS: What is your view of COVID-19’s impact on the mineral exploration sector?

DC: At the time of writing, there seems to be progress on reducing the impact of the virus, but longer-term consequences will be truly global and resonate for many years to come.

I anticipate that we’ll see a shift in nation states’ desire to secure strategic supplies for raw materials, either within their own Drillers’ trusted publication

territories, or within those states with more transparent and reliable credentials. In the short-term, I’d like to think that we’ll return to some form of ‘normality’ before the end of the year. Right now, it’s hard to see what’s coming next week, let alone next month!

TS: You operate your own consultancy.

How has this line of work developed over the last 10 years?

DC: I’ve been operating through Rocklore Exploration Services since 2003 and given the various interests I’ve already mentioned, it still affords me great flexibility. Large consultancy firms will continue to need associates so it’s a bit of the best of both worlds. The most discernable change is what a relatively small consultancy can achieve on its own whilst maintaining

TS: You work with the British Military. Tell us what is involved, as many readers may be unaware of geologists in the military.

DC: There are three geologists in the Royal Engineers, and all are reservist officers.

We’re responsible for supporting a range of operational matters, including defense intelligence, support to material science, well drilling and water development, infrastructure assessment, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, UK resilience, and interestingly, subterranean warfare.

I’ve served in the Reserve for some 27 years in roles such as infrastructure support, civil-military coordination, geographic support and leading a sub-unit of explosive ordnance disposal and search specialists.

‘My first experience of exploration drilling was with a man-portable rig in Yemen. A tough environment at the best of times, but a blessing to work with great drillers who really understood the need to work closely with the local community.’ a small and cost-efficient footprint.

New price models have made software accessibility more affordable and working from home can improve productivity by reducing lost time on commuting, as many are discovering right now.

TS: Will small consultancies become more prominent post-COVID-19?

DC: I think smaller consultancies have always had their part to play – either as niche specializations or through commercial agility. By that I mean many small consultancies offer an array of specialist services or skillsets, and switch to alternative sources of income during cyclic downturns – a fact of exploration life well before COVID-19. I do believe that if exploration and development funding tighten, there will be opportunity for many small consultancy firms to be more competitive.

Now, as the Army’s senior geologist, I can honestly say that it’s some of the most interesting and rewarding work that I’ve done during my career to date.

TS: What changes have you observed in the way drilling contractors work over the past 20 years?

DC: My first experience of exploration drilling was with a man-portable rig in Yemen.

A tough environment at the best of times, but a blessing to work with great drillers who really understood the need to work closely with the local community. In recent years drilling contractors have had to operate beyond the technical service aspects and look more holistically at how they fit into projects.

At an early stage, drilling contractors can often be the largest employer at a project so environmental and social governance has become just as important as drilling.

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/Q&A FROM THE EXPERTS

TS: What drilling technology developments do you see making an impact in the next few years?

that project, I’ve seen some odd working practices in Russia and Kazakhstan, but we’ve always managed to get the job done.

DC: It amazes me how quickly some technology is being developed. Automation and directional drilling are interesting, but I see growing opportunities in reducing the time to generate data, so that the geologist can better monitor the hole with enhanced 3D knowledge of the deposit.

Down-the-hole sensors and rig-site labs can generate data almost immediately and that data can now be transmitted via satellite to head office. Beyond that, the possibilities for utilizing non-destructive core scanning systems are remarkable.

TS: You’ve mentored graduates and students. What’s your advice to those who are starting out in mining?

TS: Can you share your worst experience with an exploration drilling company?

DC: One project comes to mind – a challenging location requiring heli-drilling operations. Substandard logistical support combined with some woeful drilling led to significant delays, which blew out the program schedule and resulted in ridiculous overall cost per meter drilled. Other than

DC: I’ve got an entire presentation on this subject, so it’ll be tough to reduce it to a short answer! However, here are my five themes: • Communication: build confidence with written and spoken communication as it’s a vital skill at all levels and across management, community, and investors.

• Experience: cultural awareness, professional standing and charterships, and hands-on international experience.

• Skills: languages, driving, navigation, etc. – anything that can help you do your job better and make you more than ‘just the geologist’.

• Education: never stop learning and take the opportunity to pass it on.

• Passion: if you don’t enjoy what you’re doing, you’re undoubtedly doing the wrong job, for the wrong reason.

TS: What’s does the future hold for Mineral Exploration?

DC: I think the most obvious opportunity lies in digitizing the mass of global historical work, and allowing machine learning and ‘artificial intelligence’ applications to do their thing. There are companies doing this already, and they’re spotting and pegging opportunities that a few decades ago might have been minorly anomalous, yet now are of great interest. The greatest threat lies in market atrophy. As a sector, we need to better align our businesses to address climate change – protect the environment and counter media bias against the unavoidable need for natural resources.

Beyond that, I’m going to embrace my inner sci-fi geek here and look forward to what will become possible in outer space, most notably on the moon. C

For more information Visit: www.rocklore.co.uk

Go. Explore.

United. Inspired.

Exploration Manager The very essence of exploration drilling is to find out more about the ground below us or above us. With the drilling and operational analyzing tool, Exploration Manager, this task becomes much easier.

Find out more at epiroc.com

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Coring Magazine #13

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MORE THAN 35,000M TROUBLE-FREE SERVICE.

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When rods last up to three times longer, that can drastically reduce your cost per meter or cost per foot. And that’s an edge every driller wants.

1.800.661.2792 info@di-corp.com www.di-corp.com Di-Corp is a registered trade name of Diversity Technologies Corp.

/EXPLORATION & MINING GEOLOGY

Redmoor Project Discovering a world-class underground tin-tungsten resource

by Samuel Bolton, Exploration Geologist at Cornwall Resources Limited

Located in east Cornwall, UK, the Redmoor tin-tungstencopper deposit has been the focus of recent and highly successful exploration by Cornwall Resources Limited (CRL) – a subsidiary of UK-listed Strategic Minerals PLC. Redmoor’s success demonstrates the potential for substantial discoveries in one of the world’s most heavily mined, yet least explored areas.

Two very productive diamond drilling campaigns totalling over 7000 m (22 966 ft) each, combined with existing data, have led to the definition of a globallysignificant polymetallic inferred resource of 11.70 Mt at 1.17 % tin equivalent1, hosted in a sheeted vein system (SVS) orebody. Mine and processing studies help underwrite the project’s potential economic viability, which will now advance to the next stage.

Redmoor project location 1

Tin equivalent calculation:

SnEq% was derived using the formula Sn(Eq)% = Sn%*1 + WO3%*1.43 + Cu%*0.40. WO3Eq% was derived using the formula: WO3(Eq)%= Sn%*0.7+WO3%+Cu%*0.28. Commodity price assumptions: WO3 US 33 000/t, Sn US 22 000/t, Cu US 7000/t. Metallurgical recovery assumptions: WO3 recovery: 72%, Sn recovery: 68% and Cu recovery: 85% and payability assumptions of 81 %, 90 % and 90 % respectively. Recovery and payability assumptions are taken from preliminary studies.

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Location and history East Cornwall is a region familiar with mining, surrounded by pastures and low-density housing, with excellent road, power and communication infrastructure, and a supportive local council, eager for mining to recommence.

The legacy Redmoor mine was last in operation in 1943. The area is rich with what remains of the tin and copper operations.

Tin has been worked since antiquity, initially by surface tin-streaming methods, naturally progressing to underground operations as technology improved, via rapid development and deepening, during the Industrial Revolution. Copper and arsenic sulphide zones were often encountered beneath existing surface tin workings, and east Cornwall and west Devon became renowned for the production of these commodities and tungsten. During the two world wars, tungsten’s popularity and demand grew with the advent of magnetic separation.

Between 1978 and 1986, Southwest Consolidated Minerals Limited (SWM) explored the area utilizing geochemistry, geophysical and drilling programs, including over 30 diamond drill holes.

SWM’s exploration led to the definition of an initial low-grade, tin-tungsten resource and complete technical studies. In 1986, work ended due to tin’s global price collapse, however, SWM’s invaluable amassed information has remained available, presenting an ideal opportunity for CRL to become involved.

Deposit Redmoor’s targeted orebody is an exogreisen SVS. The deposit is hosted in Devonian slates and shales, comprising a 90-meter (295 ft) thick zone of veins dipping steeply to the north-north-west, with a strike-extent of at least 950 m (3117 ft) and a dip extent of over 550 m (1804 ft).

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It remains open at depth and along-strike to the west. The system is constrained to the east by Kit Hill Granite – a small local stock, which may have been a driver for the development of adjacent mineralization at Redmoor. Within the described envelope, many 5-15 m (16-49 ft) thick, high-grade zones of focussed veining occur, and it is these zones which constitute the current resource. Outside the main SVS are a number of other exploration opportunities in the form of Cornish lode-style structures, some of which were exploited in the 18th and 19th centuries, and are yet to be fully evaluated by CRL.

Drill campaigns Drilling was undertaken by two contractors: Energold UK Limited (2017) and Priority Drilling Limited (2018). Operations ran for 12 hours per day, 13 days per fortnight under a General Permitted Development Order (GPDO) – issued by Cornwall Council, allowing work to proceed via its regional authority. Land access agreements were upheld with all surface landowners, utilizing two diamond core rigs at each program to yield H- and N-sized core. In 2017, Energold utilized an Atlas Copco CS1000 and an EGD Portable Series 3 rig to drill 20 holes with an average length of 352 m (1154.86 ft).

Redmoor mine in operation, circa 1920s In 2018, Priority used two Atlas Copco CS14 rigs to drill 12 holes with an average length of 614 m (2014.44 ft). Both programs generated excellent recoveries, typically

A typical CRL drill site: Redmoor mine count house (foreground) and bale wall (background) Drillers’ trusted publication

within 90-100 %. All holes were surveyed regularly during drilling, allowing close monitoring of deviation in real-time.

Drilling need not be noisy work Council permissions required noise be at <55 dB LA90 15 minutes at the nearest occupied receptor, which could be as close as 50 m (164.04 ft) from the drill site, and <50 dB on Sundays. To ensure compliance, CRL enforced a noise limit of 50 dB at the boundary of the nearest property with regular monitoring. Straw bale walls and noise-attenuating mats were utilized to reduce drilling process noise. Local farmers were engaged to erect straw bale walls, which led to a local contracting opportunity.

Bales were stacked in a brick-wall pattern to a typical height of 4 m (16.40 ft) to encompass the drill rig and working area, with the added benefit of providing a visual screen, thereby improving appearance and aligning with the area’s agricultural character.

Both teams regularly inspected the bale walls to uphold their condition, which also boosted morale, providing drill crews with shelter from the wind, and making the drill sites a more comfortable place to work.

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Steered drill holes Variable deviations were encountered during drilling, particularly during longer holes. Dip deviation was typical, involving increasing dip measurements with depth, due to the weight of the drill string pulling the holes downwards. Azimuth deviation was attributed to two factors. First, the alternating competency of the orebody, comprising a series of hard (quartz) veins hosted in soft (slate) material. Second, local housing distribution and accessibility limited viable drill site locations, thereby reducing the ability to address the mineralization at the ideal 90 ° strike angle. These two factors caused the drill holes to tend to swing in azimuth turning towards parallelism with vein orientation. This deviation was a notable challenge as the drill program was expected to deliver regularly spaced intersections through the ore body. Fortunately, CRL and the drill contractor teams cooperated and worked well together. One hole utilized a steered drilling intervention, as deviation was so great due to old mining voids encountered early in the hole’s development.

This technique proved satisfactory and would otherwise have missed the intended target. Empirical testing of the degree of deviation led to greater understanding and more precise hole planning, including predicted deviation. The work was very successful, resulting in holes of over 500 m (1640.42 ft) that regularly arrived within 15 m (49.21 ft) of target position without further recourse to steering.

Orientated drilling Reflex’ ACT tool was utilized for orientation marks on the majority of core drilled in both programs so that CRL geologists could then measure structures and vein orientations in the logging facility. In all, 1946 structures were measured, including bedding, intrusive contacts, joint sets, veins and faults.

This data has been crucial in interpreting geological setting, orebody model, structural orientation and variability of vein sets, and geological continuity of the orebody at depth. It has also been instrumental in developing future drill program targeting, examining extensions to the SVS.

‘Empirical testing of the degree of deviation led to greater understanding and more precise hole planning, including predicted deviation.’

Community interaction Community perception was a key issue, having the potential to adversely affect CRL’s social license to operate (SLO), possibly limiting drill programs and the development of a future mine. It was therefore important to proactively manage the relationship and conduct positive community liaison – a key pillar of CRL’s operating philosophy. Multiple engagement meetings were well-attended by community members and officials to outline and discuss the work, before and during the two drill campaigns. The meetings provided CRL with a platform to explain plans while identifying and mitigating concerns. A delegate was appointed as the dedicated contact to immediately address community concerns. The CRL team and its two separate drilling contractors are proud of the fact that there were no complaints.

They intend to maintain this record by sharing timely and clear communications, operating with consideration, and responding rapidly to community queries.

Resource CRL began exploration in January 2017, with an aim similar to SWM’s of targeting the lode extensions and exploring potential around the SVS. Dynamic drill planning yielded strong results that refocussed the target to the SVS. Over 7000 m (22 966 ft) of diamond core was drilled in 20 holes in the first year of drilling, with encouraging results that included an apparent 14 m (45.90 ft) at 1.14 % tin equivalent from 457.10 m (1500 ft), containing 6 m (19.70 ft) at 1.98 % from 465.10 m (1526 ft) at CRD019. All drill

Redmoor diamond drill core hole CRD0028 with wolframite and chalcopyrite mineralization 50

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core was digitally logged for lithology, veining, mineralization, weathering, geotechnical characteristics, and structure. Mineralized core sections were halved using a diamond core saw and analyzed at ALS, Ireland by ICP-AES multi-element analysis, following sodium peroxide fusion. A robust QA/QC program identified at an early stage, the potential for the coarse nature of high-grade tungsten mineralization to cause a nugget effect more often seen in high-grade gold samples. As a result, a customized sample preparation protocol was applied so that a large proportion of the crushed sample was pulverised, achieving good repeatability of sample analyses. Another QC success was in identifying that the selected technique was underestimating tungsten composition at high grades.

In instances where tungsten grades exceeded 0.5 %, an additional analysis was applied using XRF to improve high-grade accuracy. The geological and analytical data was created and maintained in a database using Micromine software. While working in this 3D environment, CRL geologists carried out ‘live’ geological modeling, supported by structural orientation data, keeping the drill program informed as it progressed. The model was then transferred to independent resource consultants for resource modeling once the drilling was completed.

The 2017 drill campaign resulted in a new geological model of the SVS. A JORCcompliant inferred resource was issued by SRK (UK) in March 2018 of 4.5 Mt at 1 % tin equivalent1, contained within the SVS. This resource, together with Exploration Target potential, defined by notably highgrade assays in deeper holes (not included in the 2018 resource due to data spacing), encouraged CRL to conduct a second drilling campaign. The second drill program occurred during Q3 and Q4 2018, with the aim of expanding the new inferred resource by drilling exploration targets down-dip and along-strike.

The second campaign was completed in December 2018 and totalled over 7300 m (23 950.13 ft) of diamond drilling. Every drilled hole hit mineralization, and in most cases, it was of a stronger tenor than the 2017 work, validating the previous model.

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Redmoor geological model, March 2019 This led to an updated inferred mineral resource estimate being issued in March 2019 of 11.7 Mt @ 1.17 % tin equivalent, using a 0.45 % tin equivalent cut-off grade (Geologica UK).

The increased size and grade of the updated mineral resource – a 200 % increase in contained metal – is due to 2018’s highly positive drill hole results, confirming the strength of CRL’s geological model in projecting interpreted high-grade zones along-strike and down-dip. As a result, a significant proportion of March 2018’s Exploration Target was converted to Mineral Resource in the 2019 work, and a further Exploration Target of 4-8 Mt at 1-1.4 % tin equivalent was then defined.

efficient and high-quality operations which

Conclusions

resources remain in the ground, and a mining

In less than three years, CRL have successfully produced a globally-significant tin-tungsten-copper inferred resource and have completed preliminary mining and metallurgical studies, suggesting good economic fundamentals for the project.

This work was made possible due to CRL’s

included positive community engagement and maintenance of social license to operate (SLO) throughout the drilling and associated operations. The geological success should not be attributed to ‘joining the dots’ between good assays. Rather – it was a nimble and investigative geological approach – ready to modify and optimize plans quickly, and follow-up on good results; maximizing interactions with local academic and industry experts, and developing a profound depth of geological knowledge in a high-quality and professional technical team. The success of this project highlights the potential within the Cornwall and west Devon region. Abundant resurgence is possible if modern exploration techniques are applied. As Redmoor suggests, new mines in the region have the potential to be exceptionally high-grade, with limited impact, providing a solution to evolving societal demands for clean and low emission metal production. C

For more information

Visit: www.cornwallresources.com

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/EXPLORATION & MINING GEOLOGY

Things will never be the same

by Louis Fourie, Owner & Principal at Terra Modelling Services Inc.

A few months ago, there were industry indications that many commodities were beginning to return to a growth phase. Companies were positive, drill rigs were busy, and analytical labs were being inundated with samples. How quickly things change.

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The question remains as to how long will it take to return to, or surpass the prepandemic state, and what lessons can we take from the current situation to apply to our industry? Some predict we will see a rise in virtual meetings as opposed to individuals flying absurd distances for what amounts to a few hours. Others anticipate additional accommodations for staff who need to work from home. Will there be a rush to switch to testing and using technology for future business continuity plans? While these are relevant points to ponder, what can

our industry do during this event, and in preparation for the future? Perhaps now is the time to consider what it means to discover a resource, drill it, and transform that resource into an economic success story.

Definition Is a resource just a lot of concentrated minerals or metals above some theoretical, calculated cut-off grade aligning with Joint Ore Reserves Committee’s (JORC) ‘reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction’?

Coring Magazine #13

Beyond this singular definition is demand.

A resource can only be deemed so if it can be sold for more than it costs to mine, process and deliver, and a customer has contractually agreed to purchase. Gold is one of the only commodities that remains a solid stock market investment – everything else is a ‘pipe dream’ (pun intended). Simply put: don’t haul a drill rig onto a site unless you have a confirmed and detailed plan to sell the end product. This is especially relevant to the ‘sexy’ or popular minerals of the day – graphite, cobalt and lithium.

It’s important to uphold three factors for success: mining, processing and delivery.

However, a local, low-grade deposit with high mining costs could prove more cost-effective than a high-grade deposit on the other side of the world, with lower mining costs. And in some cases, processing is a greater cost than mining – lithium being a prime example.

Rethinking exploration Investment will be restricted for some time, so let us reconsider what it is that we want to extract from an exploration project – literally

‘Simply put: don’t haul a drill rig onto a site unless you have a confirmed and detailed plan to sell the end product.’ and figuratively. This is not a new concept by any means, having been involved with both junior and multinational exploration companies for over two decades, yet right now, it seems relevant. Exploration is often regarded as a checklist – when funding or investment slows, exploration stops. When the commodity price rises; exploration booms. Markets are volatile and often unresponsive despite every resource – time, money and work invested into discovering a new deposit, including defining a reserve and developing a mine. It’s anything but a guarantee for monetary success, or an obvious way to build investor confidence.

Encouraging investment in a depressed

market is problematic, particularly from a psychological perspective, yet it can be ameliorated by targeted spending. I was introduced to the concept of object-oriented programming back in my student days, and it simply means to streamline and remain focused. An amended exploration program should use every available tool for efficiency.

Let me provide an example of a program outline such as remote sensing analysis.

When prospecting for target areas, multispectral and hyperspectral analysis of satellite data can be applied over a broad area identifying alteration anomalies, structural analysis and vegetation anomalies. It is a powerful tool when paired with existing data

Multispectral satellite data analysis of mineralization in a salar Drillers’ trusted publication

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or previous field work for a first pass look, or when seeking additional confirmation of potential targets. Prospects can then be revisited using remote sensing with targeted geophysics – fixed wing for large areas and drone geophysics for smaller targets.

Both time and money are saved avoiding unnecessary passes over expansive areas, and the saved dollars can be banked for future exploration expenses, or applied to tighter line spacing. Targets and target areas must be clearly defined before boots are allowed on the ground to undertake mapping, soil, outcrop and channel sampling (if appropriate), and then drilling.

The time to start new exploration is when markets are low, such as right now. Skipping ahead to drilling to try and elevate the share price is tempting, but it is the less optimal approach long-term, in terms of exploration success and cashflow. Adopting a thorough approach ensures that exploration continues through difficult financial situations, shortening timelines, and possibly reaching production before the next market cycle.

Economic context We depend on financial markets yet they are fickle. Understanding market cycles and the impact of commodity prices and exchange rates is essential, as mining projects can either thrive or suffer as a result

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‘The time to start new exploration is when markets are low, such as right now.’ of their fluctuation. Understanding these impacts before embarking on a project is critical. Our current situation and history suggest we need to rethink our methodology and adapt. Understanding industry context – economic, social and environmental, while adjusting spending behavior will assist in locating and defining resources for economic success in a brave ‘new’ world.

About the author Louis Fourie graduated from the University of Johannesburg, South Africa, with a BSc (Hons) in Geology in 1996.

He has 20 years of experience in resource estimation, modeling and exploration support. Louis started Terra Modelling Services Inc. (TMS) in 2014. Prior to TMS, he worked for De Beers, Shore Gold (now Star Diamond Corp.) and North Rim Exploration. He has experience in the entire value chain, with particular emphasis on exploration support, modeling and resource estimation. He is also experienced in a wide

range of commodities, including diamonds, boron, potash, phosphate and lithium (brines and clay).

TMS is a geological consulting company with highly experienced staff, providing an array of services to the mining and exploration industry. TMS can provide geological consulting, exploration management, satellite remote sensing, contract geological services, corporate risk and marketing analysis, and community relations. The TMS team consists of geologists, resource professionals, project managers, data management and community relations professionals. C

For more information To obtain specific details on how TMS team can help you, please visit www.terramodellingservices.ca

Coring Magazine #13

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Battery metal potential of the Lovelock Mine, Nevada

by Mitchell Smith, President & CEO and Timothy Strong, Project Development Manager at Global Energy Metals Corporation

Nevada is referred to as the ‘Silver State’ and is deemed both a national and international gold and silver province. Annually, Nevada yields up to 5 % global gold production and 80 % of the US’ production.

Annual silver and copper output sees Nevada produce over 9.5 million ounces of silver and 178 million tons of copper.

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But what Nevada is lesser known for is its geological hosting of critical battery minerals – important components of today’s lithium ion-batteries and highly sought after to create a new domestic supply chain to fuel the move towards a low energy economy.

Cordilleran tectonics have dominated Nevada resulting in classic Basin and Range landscape. This tectonic activity resulted in multiple phase rock fracturing, allowing mineralized fluids to penetrate.

Most of the state’s precious and base metal mineralization is associated with igneous ‘pulses’ that occurred during the Jurassic, Cretaceous and Tertiary eras.

The Lovelock Project, operated by Global Energy Metals Corporation (TSXV:GEMC | OTCQB:GBLEF), is located in Northern Nevada near the township of Lovelock,

Churchill County in the Stillwater Mountain Range, approximately 93.21 miles (150 km) from Sparks – home to Tesla’s Gigafactory.

Lovelock project is located mostly within a geological feature known as the Humboldt Ultramafic Complex (‘HUC’) – it and the associated Boyer Formation are Jurassic in age, and are well known to host significant Iron Oxide deposits.

During the late Cretaceous to Early Oligocene, the formations underwent a major episode of paleo weathering and supergene enrichment, which has since been unconformable overlain by Tertiary volcanics. This has presented companies and researchers a new target for Iron Oxide Copper Gold (‘IOGC’) exploration, however, the rocks’ ultramafic nature also reveals potential for considerable nickel, cobalt and copper mineralization – all considered critical battery metals. Lovelock Mine was exploited Coring Magazine #13

is no reason that it cannot be extended to vein-hosted base-metal projects. Attention has shifted and continues to increase as to securing the US’ domestic supply of battery and critical metals. The potential for discovery and subsequent mining of key battery metals in Nevada, such as cobalt, nickel and copper is an important step in building a domestic supply chain.

This theme has been reinforced by the global COVID-19 pandemic that has highlighted a weakness in the global value chain, reinforcing the Western World’s vulnerability and dependency on others for minerals that are critical for national and economic security, including cobalt and other battery metals.

Without downplaying the historical economic setback and human tragedy that is the result of COVID-19, the pandemic has provided an important lesson – early action is essential. Timely response and the need

in the 1800’s for nickel and cobalt. Historic documentation reveals that in 1883, 200 tons of ore were shipped to England for processing.

This ore is said to have contained up to 12 % nickel and 14 % cobalt. Cobalt has been noted to occur within Cobalite and Erythrite – the two most important cobalt hosting minerals at Lovelock, taken from a series of veins and stockworks from underground workings. Furthermore, ore samples taken from Lovelock’s existing waste dumps have confirmed the high grades in the deposit.

Historic miners of this project ‘high graded’ veins, meaning they only selected the highest cobalt and nickel, in order to produce the highest grade cobalt and nickel, and as such, have left lower vein and wall rock alteration material, which may be viable for a modern production scenario. This is a common theme of historic gold mines in Arizona, Nevada, California and beyond, and there Drillers’ trusted publication

for mineral independence will be important factors in the wake of the pandemic, fueled by governments the world over seeking ways to spur their economy while curbing climate change and setting a common path to carbon-neutrality, which was at the top of the global agenda, pre-COVID-19.

As the world transitions to a sustainable low-energy economy, critical raw materials such as cobalt, copper and nickel are being prized for the essential role they play in the cause. The current trend of reliance on a supply chain centered around China is concerning to the US and other nations looking to thwart their Asian rivals’ growth in the clean energy storage and vehicle electrification space. Time is of the essence and immediate action is required if the US, EU and other jurisdictions want to attempt to catch-up in the race to secure new energy metals. To curb this, governments will need to action policy, scale-up investment and

Lovelock Mine’s Nevada location 57

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challenge this vulnerability by localizing exploration, development and production; developing, processing and manufacturing hubs for these critical minerals, and accelerating a regional response to the largest investment opportunity of our generation.

Nevada’s Lovelock Mine project is an example of a greenfield, high-priority, target-rich opportunity that has the upside potential to be developed, offering sought after security of critical minerals supply, and build the overall resource nationalism to challenge China’s electric vehicle and technology mineral dominance.

Disclaimer: co-author, Timothy Strong is Coring Magazine Section Editor – Exploration & Mining Geology and Project Development Manager at Global Energy Metals Corporation.

The authors’ views and opinions in this article are independent to Coring Magazine. C

Mine shaft and waste dump at Lovelock Mine, Nevada

After T. DeMatties 2017 58

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In Nordfeld 14, 29336 Nienhagen, Germany, +49 5144/49360

BHA Equipment Diamond bits Core barrels Stabilizers Reamers Crossovers Drill collars Raise bore tools Additional services Coring service Directional drilling Borehole survey Rental stock Engineering Workshop Maintenance

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About the company

Site survey with Lovelock Mine shaft in distance

Waste dump sample’s PXRF reading 60

Adit to ‘Glory Hole’, Lovelock Mine, NV

Global Energy Metals Corp. TSXV:GEMC | OTCQB:GBLEF | FSE:5GE1 offers investment exposure to the growing rechargeable battery and electric vehicle market by building a diversified global portfolio of exploration and growthstage cobalt assets.

The transportation industry is set to undergo a profound transformation over the coming decades with a shift from fossil-fueled to electric-powered vehicles. Global Energy Metals provides exposure to the e-mobility revolution through the development of a diversified supply chain for downstream users with potential to grow into a significant cobalt and battery minerals supplier.

Global Energy Metals holds 100 % of the Millennium Cobalt Project and two neighboring discovery exploration stage cobalt assets in Mount Isa, Australia, positioning it as a leading cobalt explorer and developer in one of Queensland’s most famous mining districts. The company has an option on two battery mineral projects – Lovelock Cobalt Mine and Treasure Box Project, on the doorstep of Gigafactory One – the world’s largest lithium-ion battery production plant in Nevada, US and the result of a partnership between Tesla Motors Ltd. and Panasonic Corp.

GEMC has teamed with Marquee Resources – an Australian company funding a CAD 2.5 million campaign to advance the previous producing Werner Lake mine.

As GEMC expands its project’s value, it will continue to look to acquire other assets to develop a diversified global portfolio of cobalt and battery mineral assets in safe, miningfriendly jurisdictions to fuel the road to electrification.

For more info visit: www.globalenergymetals.com

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Mining at El Pinguico – the potential crown jewel of Guanajuato mining

by James Anderson, CEO at Vangold Mining

Interactive content Image captured from drone footage. The complete highquality video is available at www.coringmagazine.com.

An aerial view of the primitive, handbuilt mill constructed in the 1970s by the previous owner, adjacent to the portal of the #4 adit level, constructed c. 1900

There are very few jurisdictions in the world that are truly mining friendly, and Mexico is one of them. Mining is generally accepted, encouraged and supported by the local people and all levels of the government. Unlike many other countries, if you discover something valuable at the end of a drill bit, you’re entitled to keep it - the government won’t confiscate it, and nor will anyone else.

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Guanajuato and Mexico’s rich history Guanajuato’s mining history extends to the sixteenth century, when the Spanish were drawn to the New World, rich in precious metals. Having arrived in Mexico in 1520, they began mineral exploration. By 1540, they had identified the hills in and around Guanajuato as areas to exploit for their abundant silver and gold deposits. In 1548 and 1554, silver was discovered in the areas of San Bernabé and Rayas. The discovery led to the settling of more people in the area, and Guanajuato became one of the premier mining districts of Nueva España or New Spain, as it was known at the time.

From the sixteenth century, Guanajuato produced an estimated 1.2 billion ounces of silver and 6 million ounces of gold, deeming it one of Mexico’s most important historic

silver mining districts. The eighteenth century was considered the peak period for Guanajuato mines – Valenciana in particular was deemed as one of the world’s largest and richest silver mines.

Valenciana mine was Guanajuato mining’s crown jewel. From the late 1700s, the mine owners – the Counts of Valenciana became extremely wealthy and powerful, as the mine was contributing approximately 20 % supply to the world’s silver production.

Valenciana’s first Count, Antonio de Obregón y Alcocer commissioned construction of San Cayetano Church, also known as La Valenciana Church near the mine’s entrance. The church was surrounded by thick and mighty stone walls supported by buttresses, resembling a medieval fortress.

Mining at Valenciana was undertaken along the Veta Madre or ‘Mother Vein’ – a regional formation that can be traced at Coring Magazine #13

Vangold Director, Bill Gehlen (left) discusses underground development with General Manager, Gerardo Dorado Cantu (right) and Head of Security, Eleuterio (background) surface for over 25 km (15.53 miles), and from which many mines have produced over the centuries. Veta Madre is somewhat unique given that it is a low sulfidation epithermal system mined over 600 m (1968.50 ft) of vertical extent, demonstrating the prolonged nature of the mineralizing event that introduced the silver and gold.

Today, Valenciana forms part of Great Panther Silver’s (GPR) Guanajuato Mine Complex, and GPR also own and operate the nearby San Ignacio Mine. Other companies and operations within the region include Endeavour Silver’s Bolanitos mine and mill, private company Electrum Group, led by New York billionaire, Tom Kaplan; and TSX-listed Argonaut Gold is developing the Cerro del Gallo deposit.

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While Fresnillo PLC is in the process of returning to the area to refurbish Las Torres mine, just 2 km (1.24 miles) away from Vangold’s past producing El Pinguico mine.

Vangold Mining’s El Pinguico mine project Vangold Mining (Vangold) acquired the historic El Pinguico mine project in 2017.

The property is located 7 km (4.35 miles) southeast of Guanajuato city, in the State of Guanajuato, Mexico. It consists of two mining concessions totaling 71 hectares.

Vangold’s historic mine is near several active, modern mining operations including Endeavour Silver’s El Cubo and Bolanitos mines and mill complexes. There are three other mills and numerous mines between

Bolanitos and El Pinguico, with the closest being Fresnillo PLC’s Las Torres, located a mere 2 km (1.24 miles) away from El Pinguico.

El Pinguico was an industrious site one hundred years ago, with mining being undertaken on ten levels and from four shafts. A small train ran from El Pinguico’s shaft to a large cyanide plant on the far side of the property. But it was the ore grade that attracted so much interest and was deemed so special – the mining cut-off grade was approximately 15 grams per ton of gold equivalent.

Mining at the property started in the early 1890s, realizing great success in 1904 with the discovery of the actual El Pinguico vein – named after a small, native Mexican plant, flowering in abundance at the property. In summer, the flowers 63

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Old shaft workings at the El Pinguico project

develop into small berries that locals use to make jam and the taste is likened to North America’s huckleberries.

Today, the property’s historic remains include mineralized material grading 1.25 to 1.35 grams per ton gold equivalent, which Vangold plan to ship to one of the local mills and monetize. Vangold currently access the mine using what is known as the #4 adit – open for 800 m (2624.67 ft) before encountering their underground stockpile.

The passage is clean, dry and benefits from natural ventilation from other open shafts and adits, and is therefore deemed easy and straightforward. Vangold constructed a small head frame on top of the El Pinguico shaft, for future use and to access higher grade underground stockpile material.

Vangold’s immediate plans to advance the project include undertaking a 1000-ton (t) bulk sample from the surface stockpile material, utilizing one of the local mills.

The sample is expected to provide invaluable data regarding metallurgy and metal recoveries, while demonstrating economic viability of direct shipping the material locally.

The surface material is of marginal grade, although Vangold expect the sample will inspire confidence to pursue the underground stockpile, measuring approximately 150 000 ton (t). Trench sampling from 2017 measured the stockpile at 3.57 gpt AuEq at surface, suggesting direct shipping of material could prove to be quite lucrative.

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Underground workings, El Pinguico

Future mining plans Considering that the mine was deemed very high-grade 110 years ago, and cut-off grades were in the 15 grams per ton AuEq range, Vangold is mindful that there will be numerous exposures of vein stock-work systems that have never been drilled.

Vangold intend to conduct both surface and underground drilling in late 2020 while also providing opportunity to discover additional high-grade, in-situ material.

Vangold plan to acquire a small underground drill to drill multiple shallow holes approximately 70 m to 100 m (229.66 ft to 328.08 ft) to hit the target.

Numerous galleries still exist within the old workings that today’s drillers will be able to utilize to drill safely and comfortably.

Vangold plan to explore Veta Madre’s deep potential and expand its operations.

El Pinguico vein systems is a splay or an extensional feature from Veta Madre. As Veta Madre dips to the west, at approximately 45 degrees, it should cross Vangold’s claim boundary. The high-grade El Pinguico vein intersecting with the Mother Vein makes for an exciting drill target, with the potential to become the second Valenciana deposit. C

About the company Vangold Mining is an exploration company engaged in mineral projects in Mexico’s Guanajuato region. Board members include Dan Oliver, head of Myrmikan Capital LLC – a New York-based precious metal equity fund; Richard Silas, a stock exchange and corporate governance specialist; Mining Engineer, Hernan Dorado and newest recruit, William Gehlen – an American geologist now living in Vancouver, Canada.

For more info visit: www.vangoldmining.com

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Diamond Drilling Contractors Cont.

MITCHELL DRILLING Phone +61 7 3722 7222 info@mitchellservices. com.au www.mitchellservices. com.au Australia NPLH DRILLING Phone 705-268-7956 Fax 705-268-5174 dbreton@nplhdrilling.ca www.nplhdrilling.ca Canada

ORBIT GARANT DRILLING Phone 819 824-2707 Fax 819 824-2195 info@orbitgarant.com www.orbitgarant.com Canada, United States, West Africa, South America OX DRILLING Phone +260 96 6993265 info@oxdrilling.com www.oxdrilling.com Zambia and Zimbabwe

PEAK DRILLING Phone 250-897-0930 Fax 250-897-0960 info@peakdrilling.com www.peakdrilling.com Canada

RUEN DRILLING Phone (208) 266-1151 Fax (208) 266-1379 office@ruendrilling.com www.ruendrilling.com United States, Peru

ROCK DRILL GROUP Phone (01) 518 7100 info@rockdrillgroup.com rockdrillgroup.com Peru

SUMMIT DRILLING Phone 800-242-6648 Fax 732-356-1009 info@summitdrilling.com www.summitdrilling.com United States

TITELINE DRILLING Phone +61 3 5338 3800 Fax +61 3 5337 6100 info@titelineinternational. com.au titelineinternational.com.au Australia, Ecuador, Indonesia, Mongolia, Myanmar

Directional Drilling (A-Z)

I3 DIRECTIONAL DRILLING SOLUTIONS Phone +1 705 698 6674 roque@i3dds.com www.i3dds.com Canada REI DRILLING Phone +1 801 270-2140 Fax +1 801 281-2880 www.reidrilling.com United States

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TECH DIRECTIONAL Phone (705) 524-6222 info@techdirectional.com techdirectional.com Canada TRUST SOLUÇÕES GEOLÓGICAS Phone +55 62 992720023 contato@trustsg.com.br Brazil

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Surveying & Geophysics (A-Z) CORE TECH Phone (511) 255-5701 ventas@coretech.com.pe www.coretech.com.pe Peru

DIGITAL SURVEYING Phone +27 18 788 6349 sales@digitalsurveying.co.za www.digitalsurveying. com.za Africa

DOWNHOLE SURVEYS Phone +61 (0) 8 9361 4745 sales@downhole.com.au www.downhole.com.au Australia

GYRODATA SERVICES CANADA Phone +1 705 494 0075 don.black@gyrodata.com www.gyrodata.com Canada

INTERNATIONAL DRILLING SERVICES Phone +1 480-824-7100 IDSinfo@IDSdrill.com www.idsdrill.com United States, Canada

TRUST SOLUÇÕES GEOLÓGICAS Phone +55 62 992720023 contato@trustsg.com.br Brazil

Drilling Equipment & Accessories Drill Rigs & Accessories (A-Z)

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Coring Magazine #13

Drill Rigs & Accessories Cont.

Phone 570-586-2061 Fax 570-586-2659 sales@ackerdrill.com www.ackerdrill.com

ACKER DRILL

AUSTEX Phone 08 9450 9400 fax 08 9478 2316 enquiries@austexeng.com.au www.austexeng.com.au

DELTA MAKINA Phone +90 312 386 15 4142 Fax +90 312 386 15 43 delta@deltamakina.com www.deltamakina.com

ATELIER VAL-D’OR Phone (819) 824-3676 Fax (819) 824-2891 ateliervd@ateliervd.qc.ca www.ateliervd.qc.ca

BARKOM Phone 90-312 385 60 50 Fax 90-312 385 35 75 info@barkomas.com www.barkomas.com

DISCOVERY DRILL MANUFACTURER Phone 1-506-542-9708 Fax 1-506-542-9709 info@discoverydrills.com www.discoverydrills.com

DANDO DRILLING INTERNATIONAL LTD Phone 01903731312 www.dando.co.uk DURALITE DIAMOND DRILLS Phone 709 263-7221 Fax 709 263-7231 duralitedrills@nf.sympatico. ca duralitediamonddrills.com EVERDIGM Phone 82-2-801-0800 Fax 82-2-801-0799 info@everdigm.com www.everdigm.com

FORSUN ULTRA-HARD MATERIAL INDUSTRY Phone +86-731 84254020 Fax +86-731 84252208 info@forsuntools.com www.forsun-tools.com GEO DRILLING MACHINERY MANUFACTURING Phone +90-312-354-8576 Fax +90-312-385-6215 www.geosondajmakine.com

HYDRACORE DRILLS Phone +1 604-940-4937 +1 604-940-4919 info@hydracore.com www.hydracore.com

MAXIDRILL INC Phone +1 450-763-0212 Fax +1 514-221-2356 info@maxidrill.com www.maxidrill.com

MASSENZA DRILLING RIGS Phone +39 0521 825284 info@massenzarigs.it www.massenzarigs.com

ODYSSEY FLUID POWER Phone 705 707 1780 info@odysseyfluidpower. com www.odysseyfluidpower. com

PRD RIGS Phone +91 90470 87755 marketing@prdrigs.com www.prdrigs.com SINOCOREDRILL Phone 86-510-82723272 Fax 86-510-82752846 sales@sinocoredrill.com www.sinocoredrill.com

USINAGEM MARCOTTE Phone 1-819-824-3977 www.umvd.ca VERSA DRILL Phone 1-819-874-4404 www.versadrillcanada.com

Drill Rig Parts (A-Z) PROLENC Phone (250) 563-8899 Fax (250) 563-6704 khodgins@prolenc.com www.prolenc.com

RC Equipment (A-Z) BOART LONGYEAR Phone 1-801-972-6430 Fax 1-801-977-3374 www.boartlongyear.com

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Diamond Products (A-Z)

DIASET Phone 1-800-663-5004 Fax 604-940-9534 bits@diaset.com www.diaset.com DIMATEC Phone 1-866-202-5875 Fax 1-204-832-4268 info@dimatec.com www.dimatec.com

ASAHI DIAMOND Phone + 61-2-9997-7033 Fax +61-2-9997-8313 sales@asahi-diamond.com.au www.asahi-diamond.com.au

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CHRISTENSEN RODER Phone (11) 5069-5900 www.roder.com.br roder@roder.com.br

DIAMANTINA CHRISTENSEN Phone 56(9) 7707 9371 christensen@christensen.cl diamantinachristensen.com

HARGRAND DRILLING TOOLS Phone 86-010-61599828 Fax 86-010-61599828 whp@baoqizt.com www.hargrand.com

LEVANTO DIAMOND SOLUTIONS Phone 358-9-511-470 Fax 358-9-5114-7470 info@levanto.fi www.levanto.fi

HOLE PRODUCTS Phone 909-939-2581 Fax 909-891-0434 www.holeproducts.com

SAFARI DIAMOND DRILL BITS Phone 1-888-500BITS(2487) Fax 604-275-2487 safaribits@telus.net safaridiamonddrillbits. com

DRILLING HQ Phone 1 (208) 690-3111 Info@DrillingHQ.com www.drillinghq.com

HUD MINING SUPPLIES Phone 27 (0) 11-974-1500 info@hud.co.za www.hud.co.za

FORSUN ULTRA-HARD MATERIAL INDUSTRY Phone 86-731 84254020 Fax 86-731 84252208 info@forsuntools.com www.forsun-tools.com

JUFERMA Phone 34-91 498 93 07 Fax 34-91 498 93 06 diamondjuferma@juferma. com www.juferma.com

SINOCOREDRILL Phone 86-510-82723272 Fax 86-510-82752846 sales@sinocoredrill.com www.sinocoredrill.com

Coring Magazine #13

Core Barrels (A-Z)

DIAMANTINA CHRISTENSEN Phone 56(9) 7707 9371 christensen@christensen.cl diamantinachristensen.com DRILLING HQ Phone 1 (208) 690-3111 info@DrillingHQ.com www.drillinghq.com FORSUN ULTRA-HARD MATERIAL INDUSTRY Phone 86-731 84254020 Fax 86-731 84252208 info@forsuntools.com www.forsun-tools.com

HARGRAND DRILLING TOOLS Phone 86-010-61599828 Fax 86-010-61599828 whp@baoqizt.com www.hargrand.com HOLE PRODUCTS Phone 909-939-2581 Fax 909-891-0434 www.holeproducts.com ICEMS Phone (16) 3367-3126 Fax (16) 3361-5073 icems@icems.com.br www.icems.com.br

K. MAIKAI Phone 81-3-3490-8433 Fax 81-3-3490-8622 www.kmaikai.co.jp/eng SINOCOREDRILL Phone 86-510-82723272 Fax 86-510-82752846 sales@sinocoredrill.com www.sinocoredrill.com TERRA TEAM OY Phone 358-9-849-4030 info@terra-team.fi www.terra-team.fi/en

Drill Rods & Casings (A-Z)

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Drill Rods & Casings Cont.

BARKOM Phone 90-312 385 60 50 Fax 90-312 385 35 75 info@barkomas.com www.barkomas.com

BOART LONGYEAR Phone 1-801-972-6430 Fax 1-801-977-3374 www.boartlongyear.com

CORE TECH Phone (511) 255-5701 ventas@coretech.com.pe www.coretech.com.pe

DIAMANTINA CHRISTENSEN Phone 56(9) 7707 9371 christensen@christensen.cl www.diamantinachristensen.com

GEO DRILLING MACHINERY MANUFACTURING Phone 90-312-354-8576 www.geosondajmakine.com

SON-MAK Phone +90 224 482 44 40 - 41 Fax +90 224 482 44 39 info@son-mak.com.tr www.son-mak.com

Wedges (A-Z) FORDIA Phone 514-336-9211 Fax 514-745-4125 info@fordia.com www.fordia.com

SONDA PARTS Phone 55 – (31) 3391 3810 Fax 55 – (31) 3391 3810 comercial@sondaparts.com.br www.sondaparts.com.br/

REFLEX Phone 1-705-235-2169 Fax 1-705-235-2165 reflex@imdexlimited.com www.reflexnow.com

TERRA TEAM OY Phone 358-9-849-4030 info@terra-team.fi www.terra-team.fi/en/

Specialized Machine Works (A-Z) NORTH BAY MACHINING CENTRE Phone (705) 472-9416 Fax (705) 472-2927 luc@nbmc.ca www.nbmc.ca 72

PROLENC Phone (250) 563-8899 Fax (250) 563-6704 khodgins@prolenc.com www.prolenc.com

Coring Magazine #13

Survey Equipment Survey Tools (A-Z)

AZIWELL Phone + 47 471 600 71 post@aziwell.no www.aziwell.no

BOART LONGYEAR Phone 1-801-972-6430 Fax 1-801-977-3374 www.boartlongyear.com

ICEEFIELD TOOLS Phone +1 (867) 633-4264 Fax +1 (867) 633-4217 support@icefieldtools.com www.icefieldtools.com

REFLEX INSTRUMENTS Phone 61 8 9445 4020 Fax 61 8 9445 4040 reflex@imdexlimited.com www.reflexnow.com

DEVICO AS Phone +47 72870101 devico@devico.com www.devico.com

REFLEX INSTRUMENTS Phone 61 8 9445 4020 Fax 61 8 9445 4040 reflex@imdexlimited.com www.reflexnow.com

STOCKHOLM PRECISION TOOLS Phone 46-8-590-733-10 Fax 46-8-590-731-55 info@stockholmprecisiontools. com stockholmprecisiontools.com

Core Orientation (A-Z) BOART LONGYEAR Phone 1-801-972-6430 Fax 1-801-977-3374 www.boartlongyear.com

COREFINDER Phone +55 62 992720023 contato@corefinder.com.br www.corefinder.com.br

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Miscellaneous Drilling Fluids (A-Z)

CEBO HOLLAND B. V. (BAROID) Phone +31 255 546 262 info@cebo.com www.cebo.com

CORE TECH Phone (511) 255-5701 ventas@coretech.com.pe www.coretech.com.pe

DI-CORP Phone +1 (705) 721-3300 info@di-corp.com www.di-corp.com

JC PORTAL DRILLING SUPPLIES Phone (33) 3810 6099 (33) 1561 6618 ventas@jcpds.com.mx www.jcpds.com.mx

MUDEX Phone +61 (8) 9390 4620 info@mudex.com.au www.mudex.com.au

HOLE PRODUCTS Phone +1 909 939 2581 Fax +1 909 891 0434 holeproducts.com

SON-MAK Phone +90 224 482 44 40 Fax +90 224 482 44 39 info@son-mak-com.tr www.son-mak-com.tr

DYNAMICS G-EX Phone +61 7 54826649 sales@dynamicsgex.com.au www.dynamicsgex.com.au

PROSPECTORS Phone +61 (02) 9839 3500 Fax +61 (02) 8824 5250 sales@prospectors.com.au

TIGER FLUIDS Phone +61 (0) 417 60 11 info@tigerfluids.com www.tigerfluids.com

Packers (A-Z)

Core Trays (A-Z)

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Coring Magazine #13

A LEADING MINERAL DRILLER IN WEST AFRICA AND THE AFRICAN COPPER BELT

With a fleet of 67 drill rigs, Geodrill operates to the highest international standards in providing Reverse Circulation, Diamond Core, Deep Directional Drilling, Air-Core, Grade Control, Geo-Tech and Water Borehole drilling services to major, intermediate and junior mining companies and operates the largest most modern fleet of multi-purpose rigs on the African continent. geodrill-gh.com

Upgrade your drill site technologies to increase drilling time and accuracy.

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