Sonic drilling has been gaining popularity since its inception in the 1970s, thanks to its numerous advantages over conventional drilling methods. In this blog post, we will discuss four key points about sonic drilling and its increasing use in various industries.
## 1. Environmental and Cost Benefits
Sonic drilling is a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective option compared to traditional rotary drilling. It uses vibrational energy to penetrate the earth, which results in:
* Faster drilling
* Quieter operation
* Reduced ground disruption
* Lower risk of contamination due to non-corrosive fluids
These benefits make sonic drilling an attractive choice for companies looking to minimize their environmental impact and reduce costs.
## 2. Increased Accessibility with Secon Sonic Technologies
Secon Sonic Technologies has played a significant role in making sonic drilling more accessible by developing sonic heads that can be attached to any conventional drill rig. This innovation allows operators to easily switch between traditional and sonic drilling techniques, making it more appealing to a wider range of industries.
## 3. Slow Uptake in Australia Compared to Other Countries
Despite its advantages, the adoption of sonic drilling in Australia has been slower than in countries like Canada, where it is widely used for geotechnical exploration and civil engineering applications. This can be attributed to a lack of knowledge about the benefits of sonic drilling and the continued widespread use of traditional drill rigs in Australia.
## 4. The Sonic Drilling Institute’s Contributions to the Industry
The Sonic Drilling Institute, led by Dr. Peter Lucon, has revolutionized the sonic drilling technique through extensive research and development. With funding from the Department of Energy, the Institute developed U-Sonic, a software that numerically models sonic drilling and helps optimize its performance. The Institute also offers a range of products and services to improve the sonic drilling process, including specialized tools and techniques that increase efficiency and minimize potential hazards.
In conclusion, sonic drilling is a greener and more efficient drilling technique that offers numerous benefits over conventional methods. With the advancements made by Secon Sonic Technologies and the Sonic Drilling Institute, the adoption of sonic drilling is expected to grow, making it an even more attractive option for industries worldwide.
