China puts first fully automated drilling rig for geological exploration into operation

(ECNS) -- China's first fully automated drilling rig for geological exploration has been put into operation in the Xianshuihe Fault Zone in Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan province, raising the country's maximum deep core-drilling capacity to 7,000 meters.

The rig, designated ZJ50DB/XD70DB, was erected at a scientific drilling project site on Monday.

The equipment integrates intelligent, digital and automated technologies, including a centralized digital control system for the entire drilling site. Depending on the drilling method, it can conduct conventional oil and gas drilling to a maximum depth of 5,000 meters or wireline coring to 7,000 meters.

The drilling project is located at an altitude of 4,300 meters in the Xianshuihe Fault Zone, an active seismic fault system on the eastern edge of the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau. The planned borehole depth is 2,800 meters. Directional drilling will be used to penetrate key layers deep within the fault zone and collect rock core samples. The borehole will be preserved for long-term scientific observation after drilling is completed.

The project is expected to provide data on the fault zone's deep structure and composition, supporting research into earthquake mechanisms and regional disaster prevention and mitigation.

The high-altitude site presents challenges including cold temperatures and low oxygen levels. The project team completed equipment assembly, safety inspections and technical preparations before erecting the rig.

(By Tang Yuxian)