Reverse Circulation (RC)
Reverse Circulation (RC) drilling is the most widely used method among our clients and is typically drilled to depths of up to 400 metres. This technique produces a hole with a diameter of Ø 140 mm and is generally faster than diamond core drilling, while delivering more reliable samples than rotary air blast (RAB) drilling.
Although RC drilling is more costly than RAB and air-core methods, it is less expensive than diamond core (DD) drilling. Unlike core drilling, which retrieves intact cylindrical samples, RC drilling produces rock chips. The process involves breaking rock with a percussive hammer and compressed air, then transporting the pulverized material through an inner tube to the surface, where it is collected via a cyclone into sample bags.
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