Man-portable drilling in Antarctica

This version of our man-portable set-up uses and electric driver powered by a generator. This allows holes to be collared from inside a tent without risk from petrol fumes.

Mobile Weather Shelter (MWS) is set above the ground so that the base forms a working bench for drilling.

 

Water for drilling is provided from an IBC container. Drilling used about 700ltrs of water per day.

 

A generator is used to power the drill, avoiding the need to ventilate the tent of fumes.

 

A floor panel is removed providing access to the rock and collar location.

 

Collecting a geotechnical sample for laboratory testing.

 

Drill core recovered measures two sizes; about 75mm diameter and about 34mm diameter.

 

A mobile weather haven shelter is used as a base for drilling.