Equipment: StraightLine® 4.0 RockEye Hammer System coupled with an Atlas Copco 1000cfm/350psi compressor on a Vermeer® D24x40 Series II.
The Challenge: A shot under Interstate Highway 40, with a depth of 35′, and back up again, 600′ down the line, was the challenge issued to StraightLine® HDD, Inc. “We are looking for a more effective method to drill these tough shots,” stated CD Brown Supervisor, Jeremy Mann.” The drill crew often employed a mud motor to drill such tough shots that consisted of various types of rock, along with sticky Oklahoma red clay.
Outcome: The experienced drill crew launched at a steep angle, setting up approximately 25′ above the road surface, steering downward and achieving the required depth easily before reaching the Interstate traffic. From the launch point, the hammer negotiated its way through 9′ of dirt and clay before hitting rock. The crew experienced various levels of hardness along the bore path. 15 to 20 minute rods were common, but at one point, production slowed to 40 minute rods, as the rock hardness increased. Intermittent levels of clay and cobble were also negotiated through the shot. The hammer easily steered up 2% to 3% of pitch per rod. The crew easily gained elevation and made their mark along the designated easement. “I’m impressed, stated Directional Drilling Superintendent, John Russell, the tool did what it was supposed to do, and it will be a valuable asset to our operations.”
