As mineral exploration moves into roadless mountains and plateaus, large rigs are impossible to deploy. For 50–200 m shallow holes, portable core drills are the only option. But mountain coring is brutal: terrain blocks transport, no grid power, fractured formations destroy core recovery, and equipment fails fast. Average recovery often sits at 70–78%, with high rework rates. The solution is not a bigger rig – it’s precise equipment, smart process, and field survival skills.

1. Rig Selection: Lightweight + Formation‑Matched

• Rig weight ≤50 kg, modular design for one or two people to carry uphill.
  *Our pick: SCHP-800A Portable Hydraulic Core Drilling Rig – air‑cooled diesel hydraulic, no grid needed, ultra‑reliable in high altitude and dust.*
• Bits: Diamond for hard rock (granite, quartzite); carbide step‑bits for soft/weathered rock; thin‑wall for broken zones.
• Drill rods: φ42–50 mm double tube with flexible spring retainer to prevent core crushing.

2. Drilling Process: Short Runs + Simple Mud Mix

• Core every 5–10 m – never chase long runs in fractured ground.
• Portable mud: 20–50 L sealed bucket. Hard rock: bentonite + water (30–35s viscosity). Broken zones: add微量 polymer stabilizer (35–40s).
• Parameters: Low pressure (8–15 kN), slow speed (60–90 r/min), low flow. Trip steadily – no jerking.

3. Maintenance That Keeps You Drilling

• Clean after each shift (air blow + water flush).
• Grease threads and fittings; inspect seals daily.
• Spare kit: spring retainers, seals, bits, hose fittings, filter.
• Drain mud lines every evening to prevent clogging.

4. Off‑Grid Power: Extend Your Footage

• Use diesel (30% less fuel than petrol).
• Intermittent drilling in tricky zones – avoid frequent starts.
• Solar panel + power bank for lights and monitors.
• Small‑pack consumables to save weight.