Our equipment
Built for Depth. Built for Access.
Two purpose-built rigs covering surface and underground programs — from large-diameter PQ to deep NQ exploration holes.
Casagrande C6
Our primary surface rig — powerful, versatile, and capable of the deepest programs we run.
The Casagrande C6 is a hydraulic diamond core drill built for demanding surface programs. It handles the full range of wireline core sizes and has the torque and pullback to reach depths most contractors won't attempt.
Depth Ratings
| Core Size | Hole Ø | Max Depth | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| PQ | 122.6 mm | 1,000 ft | Large-diameter resource definition, geotechnical |
| HQ | 96.0 mm | 2,000 ft | Standard exploration, infill drilling |
| NQ | 75.7 mm | 3,000 ft | Deep exploration, step-out holes |
122.6 mm
Large-diameter resource definition, geotechnical
96.0 mm
Standard exploration, infill drilling
75.7 mm
Deep exploration, step-out holes
Key Features
- Hydraulic feed and rotation for precise depth control
- Full wireline retrieval system
- High-torque spindle for hard and abrasive formations
- Capable of angled and directional holes
- Skid or trailer-mounted for site flexibility
- Compatible with down-hole survey tools
Best For
- Deep gold and base metal exploration
- Resource definition and infill programs
- Large-diameter PQ geotechnical borings
- Remote surface sites requiring long-reach capability
Longyear Underground Rig
Compact, powerful, and designed for the tight confines of underground mine headings.
Our Longyear underground rig is purpose-built for drilling from underground headings, drifts, and raises. Where a surface rig can't go, this one can — and it still delivers the core quality and depth capacity that exploration geologists need.
Depth Ratings
| Core Size | Hole Ø | Max Depth | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| HQ | 96.0 mm | 2,400 ft | Underground exploration, ore body definition |
| NQ | 75.7 mm | 3,000 ft | Deep underground exploration holes |
96.0 mm
Underground exploration, ore body definition
75.7 mm
Deep underground exploration holes
Key Features
- Compact footprint fits standard mine headings
- Hydraulic chuck and feed for consistent penetration
- Full wireline core retrieval
- Low-profile design for restricted-height access
- Rapid rod handling in confined spaces
- Proven in active underground mine environments
Best For
- Underground mine exploration programs
- Ore body definition from existing workings
- Tight-access headings and raises
- Active mine sites requiring minimal disruption
Core Size Reference
We drill all standard wireline core sizes. Core size selection depends on program objectives, formation hardness, and required sample volume.
Largest standard wireline size. Used where maximum sample volume is required — resource definition, geotechnical, metallurgical testing.
The workhorse of exploration drilling. Excellent core recovery in most formations. Standard for gold and base metal programs.
Preferred for deep holes where reduced bit wear and lighter rod weight matter. Strong recovery in competent rock.
Have a Program in Mind?
Tell us the depth, core size, and formation — we'll tell you which rig fits and when we can mobilize.
Request a Quote