Vale Coal Mine

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Vale Coal Mine

Tete, Mozambique

The Vale Coal Mine in Tete, Mozambique was one site where CoreSMART got results for a major exploration drilling contractor that was struggling with core recovery and preservation. The contractor had to drill to 600 meters before reaching the target coal seam and would only be paid for a core recovery of greater than 75%. With the current system they had been using they were unable to reach the required core recovery rate as the coal was very soft and would disperse into the drilling fluid. KB International introduced our CoreSMART single bag material and they started to get better results. The client achieved 90-100% Core Recovery in coal layers due to the membrane formation enveloping the core, keeping it intact and undisturbed. Along with the improved core recovery, the client recorded increased penetration rates due to enhanced bit cleaning and solids removal. The CoreSMART also reduced torque and rod chatter reducing equipment wear. CoreSMART delivered the desired results without the need for multiple additives and constant fluid maintenance resulting in a successful project.