Mineral Exploration: The Preliminary Investigation Phase
Mineral exploration is the cornerstone of the mining industry, and the first stage, the preliminary investigation phase, sets the foundation for success. This phase focuses on identifying broad areas that may host mineral deposits, requiring advanced techniques and tools to ensure efficiency and accuracy.
Objectives of the Preliminary Investigation
The goal of this phase is to:
Identify regions with potential for mineral deposits.
Collect basic geological, geochemical, and geophysical data.
Define target areas for more detailed investigations.
Tools and Techniques
Modern tools streamline the preliminary investigation, making it more effective:
Exploration coring drill rig: Essential for initial core samples to verify geological hypotheses.
Portable full-hydraulic core drilling rig: Ideal for rugged terrains, offering mobility and precision.
Wireline exploration machine: Facilitates efficient core retrieval, reducing operation time.
Diamond core drilling tools: Provide high-quality core samples, critical for understanding subsurface geology.
Case Study: Preliminary Survey in Western Canada
In Western Canada, geologists employed portable full-hydraulic rigs to explore vast areas with minimal environmental disruption. They identified promising deposits using diamond core drilling tools, significantly accelerating the project timeline.
