TREATMENT OF DIAMOND DRILLING WATER FOR WATER REUSE IN CONFINED SPACE
As part of an underground diamond drilling exploration program, a diamond drill rig is used to carry out exploratory drilling activities.
By nature, these operations generate return water containing both drill cuttings and drilling additives used to transport these solids from the borehole.
The mining company turned to Mudwizard for the management and treatment of its drilling water. We delivered Eddy Water Treatment System.
Challenges
Drilling water contains high concentrations of suspended solids as well as drilling additives. These additives exhibit characteristics similar to certain chemicals commonly used in water treatment, directly influencing the treatment process and chemical program required.
The drill was located in a highly confined area due to the current stage of mine development. Managing drill cuttings represented a significant challenge, particularly because no mobile equipment could access the settling bay where drilling water accumulated.
Outcomes
Coagulation and flocculation tests were conducted both on-site and in the laboratory to identify optimal treatment formulations and adjust dosages in real time.
Testing established the optimal polymer dosage required to separate solids from the drilling water while preserving most of the drilling additives used by the drilling crew. This approach reduced additive consumption and enabled recirculation of the drilling water.
Drill cuttings were collected in geotubes, then placed in cages normally used to transport drill core samples and hoisted to surface using the mine hoist.
Key Benefits
- Water reuse enabled
- Efficient drill cuttings management
- Reduced drilling additive consumption