Exploration
& Drilling
the search is always on.
Although Rosebud has a very strong reserve base that will
support increasing levels of production for many years to come, we
are always seeking to add to our holdings. The Exploration
Department at Rosebud maintains an extensive database of drill hole
records and other coal-related geological data, and we have an
unparalleled knowledge of the coal geology of Western Pennsylvania
and Eastern Ohio. However, once a lease or purchase agreement has
been signed between Rosebud Mining and a property owner or owners,
site-specific geological data may be required for us to evaluate
the quantity, quality and mineability of the coal underlying the
property.
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Our primary method of data collection for reserve evaluation is
core drilling. We operate two Atlas Copco CS-1000 surface coring
drills year-round. As shown on the left, these rigs are mounted on
a maneuverable, duel-axle truck that allows us to access drill
sites with a minimum of surface disturbance. The innovative
truck-mounted CS-1000 set-up was designed to our specifications and
featured in Coal Age Magazine.
Prior to drilling, the location of and accessibility to drill
sites are mutually agreed upon with the property owner. Since the
drill requires water, which is used as a coolant for the drill bit,
a water source will also be agreed upon with the property owner.
This may involve pumping water from a nearby stream or pond, or
hauling water from a more remote location on or off the
property.
The drill retrieves two inches diameter continuous cores, which
are laid out on the ground at the drill site. After geological data
are recorded and samples are taken for analysis, the core will be
removed at the property owner's request. Upon completion of
drilling, the surface casing is removed and the entire drill hole
is filled with cement, with the exception of the uppermost several
feet that is backfilled with soil. The drill site is then cleared
of debris and, if necessary, seeded with grass and mulched. Our
goal is to completly erase our footprint.
See Photos >
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