Exploration drilling in coal mining is the process of drilling to explore and assess the coal content underground. The objective is to collect geological data regarding the location, quality, and quantity of coal reserves. This process involves drilling holes in areas identified through surveys, as well as sampling and analyzing coal.

The data obtained aids in mine planning and economic evaluation of the project, ensuring that mining operations will be efficient and sustainable.

Some common problems encountered in this unit and solutions provided by Eonchemicals include:

1. Problem: Borehole Stability

Borehole stability issues are a significant challenge in exploration drilling, especially in coal mines. Unstable boreholes can collapse or narrow, hindering the drilling and sampling process.

Heterogeneous geological conditions, high ground pressure, and the presence of groundwater can cause borehole walls to become unstable.

This instability not only increases drilling costs and time but also poses safety risks to workers and equipment.

Solution: EonMud CRP

This product is a core recovery polymer, a high molecular weight polymer in powder form. It is specifically developed as a viscosifier for core drilling and borehole stabilizer. By forming a layer on the borehole wall, this polymer prevents the borehole walls from collapsing and maintains borehole stability during drilling.

The layer formed by this polymer also prevents the collapse of formation layers, ensuring the integrity of the geological structure around the borehole.

Thus, this product not only enhances drilling efficiency but also reduces the risk of equipment damage and accidents. The use of this polymer is a crucial solution to address borehole stability issues in exploration drilling, particularly in coal mines.

2. Problem: Presence of Cuttings in the Borehole

The presence of cuttings or rock and soil fragments in the borehole is a common issue in exploration drilling. Poorly transported cuttings can accumulate in the borehole, obstructing the flow of drilling fluid and causing blockages in drilling tools.

This can lead to reduced drilling efficiency, increased drilling time, and the risk of equipment damage. Effectively managing and cleaning cuttings is essential to ensure smooth drilling operations.

Solution: EonFoamer W102

This product is a foaming agent, a chemical formulated specifically for well maintenance. It contains anionic surface active agents, enabling the EonFoamer W102 solution to produce a large amount of stable foam.

The foam generated by EonFoamer W102 is highly effective in lifting dirt and cuttings from the borehole, facilitating the cleaning and maintenance process.

Its ability to maintain foam stability ensures that cuttings and dirt are efficiently lifted during well cleaning. By using this solution, the problem of cuttings accumulation in the borehole can be minimized, reducing the risk of drilling tool blockages and enhancing drilling efficiency.

This product is highly suitable for use in various drilling conditions, providing an effective solution for maintaining borehole cleanliness and performance.

3. Problem: Corrosion in Fluid Systems

Corrosion in fluid systems is a serious issue that can result in damage to pipes, pumps, and other equipment. Corrosion occurs when metal materials react with chemicals in the fluid, such as water, oxygen, or acidic substances. This leads to material thinning, leaks, and ultimately system failure.

Additionally, corrosion particles carried by the fluid can clog and damage system components, increasing maintenance costs and downtime.

Solution: EonCor D200, EonCor D224

EonCor D200 is a high foam corrosion inhibitor, specially formulated for fluid systems, working by forming a film on metal surfaces to reduce the potential for corrosion such as metal damage and pitting.

This product is highly effective in protecting metals from corrosion caused by carbon dioxide (CO2) and organic or inorganic acids. Hence, this product ensures the reliability and longevity of fluid systems, reducing maintenance costs and minimizing the risk of system failure.

Meanwhile, EonCor D224 is a less foam corrosion inhibitor, also functioning as a corrosion prevention solution. Please contact our team for recommendations on the type of corrosion inhibitor that suits your field needs.

4. Problem: Leakage in Circulation Zones

Leakage occurs when drilling fluid escapes from the intended circulation zone, resulting in loss of pressure and drilling efficiency. Leaks can be caused by cracks or gaps in the rock formation traversed by the borehole.

Consequently, the drilling process is impeded, increasing operational costs and drilling time. Additionally, such leaks can cause environmental damage if contaminated drilling fluids enter groundwater or surrounding ecosystems.

Solution: EonDrill Swell

This product is a lost circulation additive, an ideal solution for sealing lost circulation zones and effectively reducing vibrations in the borehole.

• Environmentally friendly and safe to use
• Easy to apply, and can be mixed with other drilling materials, enhancing operational efficiency

5. Problem: Lubrication of Drill Bits

Without adequate lubrication, drill bits will wear out quickly, reducing drilling efficiency and increasing the frequency of tool replacement. This not only raises operational costs but can also cause significant downtime.

Moreover, insufficient lubrication can lead to ineffective cutting and the risk of damage to the rock formation around the borehole.

| Read coal hauling problems and solutions

Solution: EonMud 310

This product is a drilling fluid additive, designed to prevent the drill bit from kick, loss, and wear. EonMud 310 has the following features and benefits:

• Helps clean the borehole bottom from debris and dirt, ensuring efficient drilling operations.
• Effectively lifts drilling cuttings to the surface, preventing accumulation that can hinder drilling.
• Maintains formation pressure balance, reducing risks of blowouts and kicks
• Cools and lubricates the drill bit, extending the bit’s lifespan and enhancing drilling efficiency.
• Inhibits and prevents corrosion on drilling equipment, keeping the equipment in optimal condition.

Inhibits and prevents corrosion of drilling equipment, keeping equipment in optimal condition.

Please consult your exploration drilling problems in the coal mining industry to get effective solutions from us.