Rock weathering as a drillability parameter

Abstract

Previous  papers of the authors on  rock drillability  are  referred, as well as  on correlations of rock properties regarding to the definition of drillability and on drilling domains corresponding to various techniques. ln particular, the concept of specific energy is emphasized, as the most representative variable of drillability.

It is shown, on an experimental basis, and utilizing specific energy, how the weathering degree of a rock

material may be a reliable parameter for the definition of drillability. Also, it is shown how to optimize drilling operations by means of controlling its parameters so that specific energy is minimized for a certain rock and a given weathering degree.