Crawler Core Rig Configuration for Exploration Coring

Working condition profile

Mineral exploration coring programs drill dense patterns of HQ/NQ-class core holes across hilly, partly roadless terrain. Shallow fan holes define near-surface geology, while deeper step-out holes test target depth up to 1500 m in hard, fractured rock. Collars cannot rely on truck access or crane support, so rigs must self-propel between nearby collars, climb graded slopes, and keep hole deviation under control. Core recovery and controlled, stepless hydraulic torque matter more than raw power, and coring diameters typically range from 75 mm to 110 mm. Rod handling and downtime between collars are the main cost drivers across the program.

Equipment selection

For shallow fan and definition holes, the configuration uses the full-hydraulic crawler core drilling rig GXY-44, rated to 1000 m maximum coring depth, with 4200 N-m maximum spindle output torque, 72 kN feed and 78 kN pull-back force, and a 92 kW (124 HP) diesel engine. Its self-propelled crawler undercarriage moves at up to 2.8 km/h and climbs 30-degree slopes, and the whole rig weighs only 3800 kg for access to light pads.

For deeper step-out holes in harder rock, the configuration adds the full-hydraulic crawler core drilling rig ZDX-1500L, rated to 1500 m, with 180 kN hoisting force, 0-1200 r/min stepless hydraulic rotary speed, and 194 kW (265 HP) power. It grades up to 35 degrees and is built for soil, weathered rock, medium-hard, ultra-hard, and fractured deep formations. Both rigs sit in the crawler and core drilling rigs line.

Configuration & key specifications

Key specifications below are verified against published product data for the two rig models.

Delivery & field capability

The lighter GXY-44 moves collar to collar under its own crawler power without crane support, covering the dense shallow fan pattern. The heavier ZDX-1500L covers deeper step-out holes where extra pull-back torque and hoisting force matter. Stepless hydraulic control lets the crew match rotary speed to formation, supporting consistent core recovery and controlled deviation, and the standardized crawler and hydraulic layout keeps training and spare parts simple across the two rigs. Splitting shallow and deep holes between a light and a heavy crawler core rig usually outperforms buying one oversized machine.