Rotary
Rotary drilling is a versatile and widely used method in the mining and water well industries. It uses continuous bit rotation with air or drilling fluid to remove cuttings from the borehole, allowing efficient penetration across a wide range of geological conditions.
This method is commonly applied to large diameter holes for blast hole drilling, water wells, and pre-collar holes in exploration. Rotary drilling can be configured for either air rotary or mud rotary circulation depending on formation type. Air rotary is used in hard rock, while mud rotary is used in softer or unconsolidated ground where drilling fluid stabilizes the borehole and lifts cuttings to the surface.
This method is ideal for:
• Large diameter and deep holes
• Blast hole and water well drilling
• Consistent performance in variable geology
• Air or mud systems adapted to site conditions
Foraco’s rotary drilling operations combine advanced equipment, experienced crews, and strong safety practices to deliver reliable, accurate, and efficient results in all environments.
Reverse Circulation
Reverse Circulation (RC) drilling is one of the most efficient and cost-effective methods for obtaining large, continuous samples from a borehole. Using dual wall drill pipe, compressed air drives rock cuttings up through the inner tube, minimizing contamination and providing clean, representative samples directly from the formation.
At Foraco, our RC drilling operations are designed for productivity, accuracy, and safety. We use modern high-capacity rigs capable of drilling to significant depths while maintaining precise sample recovery, even in challenging ground conditions. Our experienced drillers and field technicians ensure every phase of the operation meets the highest standards of quality and environmental responsibility.
RC drilling is ideal for:
- Exploration programs where rapid, high-volume sampling is required
- Grade control in open pit mining operations
- Pre-collaring or pilot holes prior to diamond drilling
- Geochemical and mineral resource evaluations
With decades of global experience, Foraco customizes RC programs to suit each client’s project objectives, optimizing penetration rates, recovery, and data quality to support confident decision making.
Flooded Reverse
Flooded reverse drilling is a specialized rotary technique designed for large diameter and deep hole applications where air circulation is less efficient. The borehole is partially filled with water or drilling fluid, creating a controlled environment that cools the bit, stabilizes the hole, and carries cuttings to the surface.
This approach improves borehole integrity, minimizes dust, and enhances sample recovery, making it suitable for high precision drilling programs and production applications.
This technique is best suited for:
• Large diameter and deep drilling projects
• Blast hole, dewatering, and pre-collar programs
• Soft or mixed ground formations
• Projects requiring clean sampling and low dust
Foraco’s flooded reverse fleet uses advanced fluid management systems that ensure optimal circulation and minimal water loss, delivering accurate and environmentally responsible performance across all project conditions.