Oriented Core Drilling versus Downhole Imaging
Oriented Core Drilling versus Downhole Imaging
(OP)
Hi all,
I have a project where I am evaluating the stability of a proposed quarry rock cut in probably igneous rock in which the stability will likely be controlled by the discontinuities. I have previously worked with oriented core drilling to assist in this type of evaluation but we are considering using a high end downhole imaging/geophysical method that provides pictures of the discontinuities and resolves their orientation. Was wondering if anyone has experience with this method, and if so, thier opinion in comparison to oriented core drilling method.
I do like the oriented core method since you get a good feel for the joint surfaces. Although I suppose you can match the photo's to the core to help with this, but I'm thinking it may be very time consuming.
Any comments appreciated.
I have a project where I am evaluating the stability of a proposed quarry rock cut in probably igneous rock in which the stability will likely be controlled by the discontinuities. I have previously worked with oriented core drilling to assist in this type of evaluation but we are considering using a high end downhole imaging/geophysical method that provides pictures of the discontinuities and resolves their orientation. Was wondering if anyone has experience with this method, and if so, thier opinion in comparison to oriented core drilling method.
I do like the oriented core method since you get a good feel for the joint surfaces. Although I suppose you can match the photo's to the core to help with this, but I'm thinking it may be very time consuming.
Any comments appreciated.





RE: Oriented Core Drilling versus Downhole Imaging
Might want to talk with a company called Crux Subsurface, Inc. out of Spokane, WA.
RE: Oriented Core Drilling versus Downhole Imaging
RE: Oriented Core Drilling versus Downhole Imaging
My bad, I thought perhaps you might have been thinking of drilling via a method (air rotary, ODEX, etc.) other than coring and subsequently doing the camera work.
I don't know which method takes less time. The video method provides output which is nice to include in a report and, it would seem, allows you to discard portions or nearly all of the core boxes after testing is completed.
RE: Oriented Core Drilling versus Downhole Imaging