The Rolkon way is the trenchless way, where no site is left unresolved! This is achieved using a three-stage process that involves the use of a directional drilling machine to accurately drill along the chosen bore path and backream the required pipe.
Stage 1: THE PILOT HOLE
Drilling a small diameter pilot hole, fluid is pumped through the drill pipe, where high-pressure jets and the drill bit grind the soils ahead of the drill stem.
Using a navigator that sits on top of the drill rig control panel, a walkover guidance system tracks the path of the pilot hole. Readings are constantly taken and corrections made by the operator and locator to keep the pilot hole along the predetermined bore path.
Stage 2: PRE-REAMING
Once the drill has reached the exit point, the drill bit is detached and replaced with a reamer which is used to enlarge the pilot hole to a size sufficient to safely install the product lines. This reamer is pulled back and rotated to enlarge the hole.
Here and in the pilot phase, bentonite or CR650 is mixed with water and pumped in to lubricate the drill and create a “cake layer” around the outside of the hole during pre-reaming, which helps to stabilise the borehole, manage fluid loss and keep the Sonde cool.
