DA Smith* mobilized drilling equipment to the ExxonMobil Upstream Research Company’s (URC) Colony mine on ten different occasions in the 1990's and 2000's to support oil shale research. Core drilling was done underground with AW, BW44, BQ, HQ3, and 6-inch-thin kerf coring tools. Core drilling from surface was done with HQ3 and HX coring tools.
Each shift a Job Safety Analysis was completed and reviewed with team members. Permits for work were issued by ExxonMobil Safety Officers.
In situ stress measurements were completed in-mine using the USBM BDG method. Grouted casing and instruments were installed in various boreholes. Boreholes were video-logged by DA Smith using a Colog OBI40 Optical Televiewer.
Hydrologic characterization was conducted in single drill holes and nests of holes drilled for testing and long-term monitoring. Water level, quality, and conductivity data were gathered in all holes. Downhole jetting measurements of water production were performed on holes completed for long-term hydrologic monitoring. Radioactive tracer tests were conducted in two holes to establish in-hole patterns of flow and correlated with geophysical spinner logs.
* Formerly as Agapito Associates, Inc.