INTRODUCTION
Boretech were contracted by a valued Client to install Power, Communications, Gas conduits under the main access road into Pilbara Minerals Mine. All works required the use of our new rock capable Ditch Witch AT32.
SCOPE
Our scope of works was to install five conduits side by side ranging from 110mm HDPE up to 160mm
HDPE all in rock and by means of dual rod (rock motor) over 50m.
We then moved up to do another 110mm and a 400mm install with a 500mm separation again.
The shots:
3 x 110mm HDPE – 50m
3 x 160mm HDPE – 50m
1 x 400mm HDPE – 50m
We drilled and installed all these shots individually with a 500mm separation.
EQUIPMENT
• BT82 – Fatboy truck
• BT93 – Equipment trailer
• BT91 – Ditch Witch AT32
• BT 61 – Vermeer Vac Truck
• BT 014 – Service UTE
GROUND CONDITIONS
Conglomerate Rock/ Sedimentary Rock.
CHALLENGES
One of the biggest challenges was that there was a massive windrow behind the exit pit which made the pull back of the 400mm very challenging. We overcame this by using roller slings and a 35t excavator to guide the pipe over the windrow and
minimise the angle and stress points.
TEAM SUCCESS
The Boretech team had great success on this project finishing well ahead of projected completion date.
The team also advanced their knowledge in dual rod steering techniques and utilisation of ground conditions. The team had great training on lower viscosity mud mixes with more carrying capacity for cleaning out drill holes better for the 400mm product pipe.
DURATION
Onsite Drilling duration was 9 days.
DATE COMPLETED
August, 2024
