Next generation drill rod design

Andy Sayers introduces drill rods designed with the modern miner in mind.

Today’s drilling environment involves challenges that previous generations rarely – if ever – faced. From deeper, harder-to-access deposits to operational challenges with automated rod handlers, to tighter margins from a more competitive and volatile global mineral exploration market, today’s driller needs efficient solutions for difficult situations.

It’s for these reasons that Di-Corp created its new wireline drill rods: S-Maxx. Specifically designed to meet the needs of today’s modern driller, S-Maxx drill rods’ dual-start thread and anti-jamming features will help drillers reach greater depths and achieve new limits.

CLUE’S IN THE NAME

The S-Maxx name comes from two parts: a patented “S” shaped interlocked profile thread and the “maximum” performance delivered by the rod. The dual-start S thread delivers more surface area and contact than previous thread forms, resulting in faster make and breaks and what the company claims is the highest torsional and tensile strength in the market.

The innovation in the new product comes from the S-shaped thread. The curvature of the load flank creates a self-locking thread profile resistant to bulging while the large corner radii improve fatigue cycling by eliminating areas of high stress concentration, improving the cycle life of the joint.

The dual-start thread allows for a finer thread pitch, enabling more threads to be engaged without sacrificing make up speed. This provides a more even load distribution along the length of the thread, improving performance when compared to traditional designs. An additional, patented anti-jam feature prevents cross threading and jamming to ensure quick and easy make up and allows the driller to remain out of harm’s way. 

The new S thread and anti-jamming features are machined onto Drillers Edge tubing, undergoing the same manufacturing processes that have given Di-Corp rods a global reputation for durability. The result is a coring rod that delivers max rod life, max joint strength, max depth capacity, and max efficiency.

TAKE YOUR DRILLING TO THE MAXX

“Today’s driller is dealing with a more competitive and volatile global mineral exploration market,” says Di-Corp’s Manufacturing Technology Manager, Chris Van Schaayk. “When margins are tight, efficiency is key. With S-Maxx, users gain efficiency by preventing cross threading – resulting in faster trips back in the hole and getting back to putting core in the box. They gain efficiency from more durable rods, resulting in reduced downtime, and smoother shifts at the rig. Who wants drama at the drill site? By investing slightly more on drilling rods, you gain lower cost per metre drilled throughout the project.”

Drilling has changed and drillers need drill rods that change to meet today’s challenges. The S-Maxx family are next-generation drill rods specifically designed for the modern mining environment.

Andy Sayers is with Di-Corp.