Surface Coring
Once a new mine or expansion project has been discovered, its viability must be proven through extensive development drilling.
Before funds are committed, both external and internal financiers require a definitive review of the project economics, including precise ore location, grade, and tonnage. To obtain this information, large-scale development drilling is carried out to define the ore body in detail and establish its parameters.
Development drilling often involves additional rigs and larger drilling campaigns, effectively ramping up from the earlier exploration phase. While the types of drilling services used are similar, the scale and duration are much greater. During this stage, Foraco introduces some of its most advanced drilling techniques such as:
- Deep directional drilling with multiple “branches” extending from a single “parent” borehole to depths exceeding 3,000 meters.
- Large diameter bulk sampling using destructive drilling methods.
These specialized techniques provide clients with substantial ore tonnage, typically used for pilot plant testing before the mine moves into full production.
Underground Coring
Underground drilling supports mining operations that take place below the surface, where access and space are limited. It is primarily used for resource definition, grade control, and production drilling in active mines.
At Foraco, our underground crews operate specialized drills designed for tight spaces, complex angles, and high-precision results. We perform diamond coring for geological data, as well as longhole, in-the-hole (ITH), and top hammer drilling for production and blasting purposes.
Each project is carefully engineered to meet client objectives while maintaining the highest standards of safety and efficiency. Our teams are skilled in handling challenging conditions and work closely with mine engineers to deliver accurate data and dependable results.
Underground drilling is used for:
- Orebody definition and infill drilling
- Grade control and stope design
- Production and blasting holes
- Geotechnical and structural investigations
Through careful planning, modern equipment, and experienced crews, Foraco provides underground drilling solutions that help mining operations achieve precise, efficient, and safe results below the surface.
Heli-Access
Helicopter-access drilling allows Foraco to reach remote, rugged, or environmentally sensitive areas where traditional ground transport is not possible. Using modular, lightweight drill rigs that can be disassembled and flown by helicopter, our crews can quickly mobilize to locations with minimal surface disturbance.
This approach is ideal for exploration projects in mountainous terrain, dense forest, or Arctic regions where access roads are limited or restricted. Each drill program is planned for efficiency and safety, with specialized equipment and logistics designed to minimize mobilization time and environmental impact.
At Foraco, our helicopter-portable rigs are capable of both core and reverse circulation drilling, depending on the project requirements. We coordinate closely with clients and aviation partners to ensure safe, precise transport and setup in challenging conditions.
Helicopter-access drilling is used for:
- Mineral exploration in remote or sensitive environments
- Projects requiring rapid mobilization and minimal site footprint
- Deep or angled holes where space and access are restricted
- Programs prioritizing environmental protection and logistical efficiency
Combining advanced planning, skilled crews, and specialized equipment, Foraco delivers helicopter-access drilling services that make exploration possible anywhere in the world.