Country / Region: Nevada, USA
Industry: Mining
Application: Gold Mining
Client Name: Silver Standard Gold Co., Marigold Mine
Client Description:
In production since 1988, Marigold produces an average of approximately 220,000 ounces of gold per year. The mine has faced, through the years, a strong increase in production as well as drilling size. Pressure for reducing costs has affected the operation, constantly seeking to reduce total drilling costs. Drillco has been a partner and supplier since the late 90’s.
Case Study:
Back in 2004, they had 4 running drills with P8.1 hammer and 8 ¾ bits, which where operated under the following procedure to maximize useful life: reverse the new hammer, rebuilt the flip hammer, reverse the rebuilt hammer and finally taking the hammer out of services after the las flip was done. After 6 months of analyzing the wear down of each hammer, we came to the conclusion that the hammer could be rebuilt a second time, but it would need a second piston due to its short life. Out team proposed a new procedure to the customer, which meant improving the metallurgic design on the piston to improve its average life, and modifying the maintenance procedure.
Results:
- The average life of the piston was improved by 87,5%, from 64,000 feet to over 120,000 feet
- The cost per foot drilled was improved by 3%, from $0.20 – $0.24 per foot to $0.13 to $0.15 per feet
Results Chart:
