Symmetric Overburden Drilling Equipment is specifically engineered for challenging environments including water wells, geothermal wells, short micropiles, and medium mini-type grouting holes for buildings, dams, and harbor projects.
The ring bit and casing shoe assembly is welded to the casing prior to drilling. The assembly is then locked into the pilot bit with a hammer, where the pilot bit's upper shoulder engages with the casing shoe.
The hammer's percussive energy is transferred efficiently through the pilot and ring bits to crush rock. A portion of this impact energy simultaneously advances the casing.
Upon reaching the required depth, the drill string with the pilot bit is retrieved using a slight reverse rotation to unlock the bayonet coupling. The ring bit remains in the hole and is only recoverable if the casing is retrieved.
Drilling can proceed to the desired depth in the bedrock using conventional drilling techniques.
Casing drilling enables simultaneous drilling and casing through unstable ground conditions. This process allows down-the-hole tools to be retrieved via wire-line through the casing, significantly reducing tool recovery or replacement time from hours to minutes.
This advanced method employs wire line-retrievable tools and a drill-lock assembly, permitting bit and BHA changes, coring, electrical logging, and even directional or horizontal drilling. Once the casing point is reached, the casing is cemented in place without the need for tripping pipe.
Blast holes & Water supply wells
Bridge and building foundations
Standard slant or horizontal drilling
Mining air holes & Environmental monitoring
Grouting operations & Seismic shot holes
Soil sample and geotechnical applications
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Symmetric Overburden Drilling Equipment used for?
It is primarily used for drilling water wells, geothermal wells, and various foundation projects like micropiles and grouting in unstable ground conditions.
How does the casing drilling process reduce costs?
By allowing simultaneous drilling and casing, it reduces overall drilling time and minimizes common drill string problems encountered in conventional methods.
Can the pilot bit be reused?
Yes, once the drilling is complete, the pilot bit is retrieved by unlocking the bayonet coupling, allowing it to be used for the next operation.
What materials are these drilling tools made from?
The tools are manufactured using High Speed Steel (HSS) to ensure high durability and performance in harsh mining and drilling environments.
Does this equipment support directional drilling?
Yes, the drill-lock assembly and specialized design permit various advanced techniques including coring, electrical logging, and directional or horizontal drilling.
What happens to the ring bit after drilling?
The ring bit remains at the bottom of the hole as part of the casing system. It can only be recovered if the entire casing is pulled back out.