Core Case, Autor em Core Case

Aligned core boxes – secure core samples.

In mining, where every detail matters to ensure samples’ safety, efficiency, and integrity, core box stacking is a strategic issue.

When core boxes do not align properly, as is common with many market alternatives, the result is a disorganized, unstable, and risky storage setup.

This type of stacking can compromise safety in the core shack, hinder movement, and occupy far more space than necessary. Moreover, the uneven pressure on the bottom cases drastically reduces their lifespan, directly impacting the preservation of stored drill core samples.

Core Case boxes are engineered to eliminate all of these problems.

With perfect alignment, they interlock precisely to form a stable and secure structure. This stability enables large-volume storage with improved ergonomics and safety, optimizing physical space and reducing operational risks.

The lightweight materials, combined with the durability of the components, make handling easier without compromising strength.

The difference is striking when you look at a neatly organized stockpile of Core Case boxes. The alignment reflects professionalism, control, and care for the stored material. But the benefit goes far beyond appearance. Every detail of the design is built to protect core samples over time, avoiding deformation, minimizing wear, and preserving the integrity of geological data.

Choosing Core Case is an investment in the longevity of your projects.

No one takes care of your cores like Core Case.

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Chip Case MINI: evolution born from listening

Chip Case vs Chip Case mini

In 2020, Core Case introduced the Chip Case, a box with 60 compartments specially designed for RC (Reverse Circulation) drill core samples. The goal was to bring more organization, durability, and ergonomics to the daily routine of mining operations. And we did it.

The reception was outstanding, and many mining companies adopted the Chip Case. However, one key lesson from that experience is that listening to our clients is the most effective way to evolve.

Over time, we noticed a recurring pattern: many companies weren’t using all the available compartments. For shorter drill holes or projects that required fewer sampling stages, what was meant to be an advantage turned into wasted space, materials, and even logistics.

That’s when the idea for the Chip Case MINI was born.

Mini in the name.
Huge in performance.

The Chip Case MINI comes with 10 compartments, offering the same level of strength, protection, and durability as the standard version. That means:

✔️ Less weight to carry;
✔️ Lower transport costs;
✔️ Better space optimization in Core Shacks and field sites;
✔️ Faster sample handling and organization.

On top of that, it features our Connecting System, which allows you to quickly and securely attach one box to another. So, if the drill hole is longer, connect it, and you have 20, 30, or however many compartments you need.

Like all our products, the Chip Case MINI is made from 100% recycled plastic, designed to reduce environmental impact and built to last.

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Mining Trends for 2024: Get to know the key points that will shape this industry in the coming year

Mining Trends for 2024

As we begin the year, it is essential to highlight the major trends that will define the mining industry in 2024. Explore the insights below.

1 – Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility:

Adopting more environmentally friendly practices entails reducing carbon emissions, effectively managing waste, and incorporating recycling technologies.

2 – Intelligent and Digital Mining:

Digitalization enhances efficiency and safety in mining by integrating sensors, data analytics, and communication to monitor operations in real-time. This optimization of resources leads to improved worker safety while streamlining processes.

3 – Automation and Robotics:

Autonomous vehicles, automated drilling equipment, and driverless transportation systems are increasingly commonplace, reducing human risks and enhancing productivity within the mining industry.

4 – Advanced Mineral Exploration:

Cutting-edge technologies like aerial geophysical surveying, high-resolution mapping, and geological data analysis are revolutionizing the search for mineral deposits.

5 – Space Mining:

Space mining, despite being in its early stages, holds the promise of an infinite supply of valuable resources from outer space.

6 – Regulatory Pressures and Social Responsibility:

The emphasis on human rights, ethical labor, and transparent practices leads to increased regulations and social responsibility, granting companies like ours a competitive advantage in the market.

7 – Strategic Metals Market:

The increasing demand for lithium, cobalt, and rare earth metals is propelled by electrification and green technologies, playing a crucial role in global supply chains.

8 – Challenges of Water Scarcity:

Efficient water management and recycling are crucial in tackling the challenge of water scarcity, especially in regions with significant mining operations.

9 – Integration of Renewable Energies:

The mining industry is embracing renewable energies such as solar and wind, leading to a reduction in carbon emissions and operational costs simultaneously.

10 – New Business Models:

Collaborative partnerships are emerging among companies, governments, and local communities, aiming to strike a balance between economic development, social responsibility, and environmental preservation.

Presently, the Mining Industry is undergoing continuous transformation marked by innovation and an escalating emphasis on social and environmental responsibility.

Core Case stands out among the leading companies, championing innovation and a staunch commitment to environmental preservation.

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Trends and Technologies in Drilling Management

The search for innovations to enhance geoscience data acquisition and management is a reality in mining companies. Therefore, we have selected five trends and technologies in drilling technology.

Among these trends, the following are highlighted:

automation and robotics
data optimization and analysis
implementation of artificial intelligence
adoption of technologies and good practices aimed at ESG preservation
digital transformation technologies aimed at obtaining data directly from the drilling source with production logs

Drilling is an Essential Process

Currently, drilling is an essential process for the geological understanding of a mine or mineral exploration project. Mining companies invest substantial resources in drilling programs every year. Thus, core samples comprise one of the few certainty resources on subsurface geology.

Geologists are able to describe, analyze and extract chemical, physical and lithological features from there and can have an estimate on mineral resources and several other geologies, mine and mining site routines. Therefore, any deviations taking place during the drilling stage can have an impact on various process throughout the mining chain.

In summary, the importance of drilling is such that new management trends and technologies are emerging more and more. Here are some of them.

Automation, Robotics, Scanners and Sensors

The use of automated machines, sensors and scanners that record high quality images is a growing trend in warehouses.

This equipment enables geology teams to extract more information from samples. They promote efficiency gains, decrease manual inputs, organization and data standardization.

This hardware can be equipped with a number of sensors. In addition to traditional RGB, spectral, hyper-spectral and laser band sensors to scan 3D core samples.

Solutions include from image recording and processing to software with artificial intelligence based on computational vision. This brings several insights that would otherwise be difficult for geologists’ eyes (and magnifiers).

Moreover, the use of automated robots in combination with rolling system workbenches enable case handling in warehouses.

Efficiency is key. This includes the adoption of practices and technologies to enable digital and direct recording of drilling information. For instance, core sample cases can be identified with QR CODES and RFID in addition to header physical engravings. This enables machines and software to later identify cases without the need of operator inputs.

Artificial Intelligence

Another major trend is the use of artificial intelligence algorithms to acquire drilling core samples. The use of machine learning is already a reality. It brings numerous use opportunities within the mining value chain, especially for geology teams.

From sample images it is possible to train computational vision models to partition and classify several parameters. For instance, identification of flaws, cracks, texture and lithological classification.

However, computational vision can be used in many other geological or geotechnical classifications. It is possible to optimize several processes such as extracting the size of core samples in the case to check for development and recovery.

These algorithms use background data and descriptions and can be retrofitted from new geologist inputs. However, in order for artificial intelligence models to be effective, it is essential to acquire images in a uniform and high quality manner.

A common scenario in several projects is the progression of geologic interpretation. Over time there are changes to the terms used, acronyms and description format. Moreover, new important geologic markers can be discovered and become the basis to outline mineralized bodies in current interpretation.

Geologists often need to endeavor to gather legacy and new descriptions in building and updating geologic models. This process frequently needs trips to the warehouse, looking for old drilling cases to reinterpret or reassess.

Artificial intelligence models can help in this scenario. Old core sample images can be used in AI models to extract geological indicators that weren’t noted in the past.

However, every technology has its limit. Old pictures may not have the required quality for good algorithm response. A spectral sensor would be needed to obtain the required data.

This trend is not about replacing geologists by algorithms, but to expand their capabilities and possibilities. By exploring AI resources, they can achieve more assertive results and optimize them.

Sustainability, Governance and ESG

The mining industry is ever more committed to conservation, employee safety and ESG matters. This includes the implementation of practices to assess the environmental impact of value chain activities and to measure their implications.

Mining companies have adopted the use of ESG Analytics solutions to identify opportunities for improvement in drilling operational chains. And by complying with such guidelines, they propose actions to reduce waste, environmental and social impacts.

An innovation example in this regard is the adoption of Core Case sample packages. This product has revolutionized the industry by replacing old wood cases by recycled plastic cases. This replacement reduces wood use as a drilling input and contributes to plastic decrease and removal from nature.

Moreover, the recycled plastic cases manufactured by Core Case are more resistant and durable than wooden cases. This eliminates future waste by replacing cases, which have systems to ensure better worker safety and comfort. Such as stacking, pallet and handling protections.

Infrastructure

A common occurrence in mining companies is the lack of sufficient warehouse space to store drill core. This makes them use warehouse external space which is constantly surrounded by case and pallet piles. This causes deterioration of identification and loss of core sample information.

Thus, a significant effort is being made by handling and transport personnel to manage storage rooms and absorb case streams. Frequent handling to reorganize storage rooms can result in the loss of core samples and valuable geologic information.

The trend in large mining companies is the creation of large central storage warehouses. Large enough to accommodate and store several projects or mines. These structures include solutions and technologies to facilitate and optimize core sample use and handling. Work benches with rolling systems, pallet holders, robotization and automatic, etc.

In this context, the implementation of tools to manage warehouse inventories and document case transfers and handling is essential.

Digital transformation, integrated systems and real-time data management

Drilling is a key method to acquire geologic information required for the exploitation, planning and operation of any mining enterprise.

However, it is characterized by its high costs and a complex activity chain. It includes sample extraction and case identification, transport, warehouse handling, description, sawing, sampling activities, analyses and storage.

In most companies, these activities are performed by several teams, both internal and external. Many of these processes are managed by sorted tools, whether physical or digital. However, this approach fragments and hinders integrated management of drilling operations.

In this sense, there are growing investments in integrated management systems that enable full process visibility throughout the chain.

The implementation of 4.0 industry technologies, IoT devices, Business Intelligence, analytics and management and control solutions is a reality.

Real-time data analysis tools enable timely problem identification for decision-making and correction purposes.

Core Case Tech’s CORE MANAGER allows users to track core sample cases from the moment they are stored to their final storage location. It optimizes inventory management, handling and drilling warehouse activities by using QR CODE and RFID technologies embedded in the cases.

Digital data collection and integrated management aim at increasing the efficiency of drilling operations. They reduce losses, waste, deviations and data errors from drilling by digitizing the controls.

A New Drilling Era

The drilling status quo is changing. It can be concluded that these five trends and technologies in drilling management show that the process can be understood differently. Large mining companies are aware of the trends that promise to revolutionize management, eliminating old, rudimentary practices.

Author: Marcéu Barreto

Review: Rochelle Kazap

Layout: Débora Souza

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Mineral prospection in Brazil

In Brazil, the term “garimpo” (mineral prospection) or “garimpagem” (prospecting activities) is usually associated with the activity of extracting valuable mineral resources such as gold in a rustic and irregular way, with a dismissive meaning. Cases such as Serra Pelada, in Carajás, broaden this view.

But it is important to know that the activity of mining is only one form of exploitation of mineral resources, among many others. And, furthermore, it is a duly regulated and inspected practice that moves the Brazilian economy significantly every year.

To learn more about mineral prospection in Brazil, read our content to the end!

Definition of mineral prospection

We can define mineral prospection (garimpo), in general, as the practice of exploitation of mineral resources in nature that occurs with investments considered low scale and simple technology, which can be mechanized, but usually occurs manually.

These characteristics are justified by the geology of the mineral deposits targeted for mining, which are usually outcropping on the surface, facilitating open-pit mining, or in some cases, through galleries that expose the rock located at a shallow depth.

Mining prospection in Brazil

In Brazil, the practice of mining is historically known due to its contribution to the national development of our civilization, and the first records of the activity in the country date back to the 16th century.

The mineral reserve exploitation through mining activity is responsible for ensuring raw materials for various other industry segments, highlighting its importance.

According to recent data, mining is constantly growing in Brazil unlike large-scale industrial mining, concentrated mainly in Minas Gerais, and Brazilian states of Pará and Mato Grosso stand out due to a major presence of mining enterprises.

Regularization of the activity

The regularization, as well as the inspection of mining undertakings in Brazil is carried out by the National Mining Agency (ANM), formerly the National Department of Mineral Production (DNPM).

The authorizing title for mining granted by the regulatory agency for these enterprises is called Mining Permit (PLG), and the exploration is subject to some specific rules, such as not using explosives, not performing underground mining and not exceeding the limit of the saprolite.

The list of minerals considered “mineable” by the regulatory agency is not short, including diamonds, minerals from the mica group, gold, quartz and its varieties, and so on.

The Mining Permit (PLG) can be applied for by any Brazilian individual or cooperative of miners, and is valid for 5 years, always renewable for an equal term at the discretion of the ANM.

In addition, the size of the mining areas is established by the norms of the National Mining Agency, with a maximum of 50 hectares being allowed for individual applicants and 1,000 hectares when granted to a mining cooperative.

Positive impacts of mining activity

Mining, when done legally, has a number of positive aspects, since besides being a basic industry, mining is an important source of income for the country. Some benefits are:

- Tax collection: The mining enterprises collect taxes for the federal government, states and municipalities, cooperating in a relevant way to the economy, mainly in the regions where they are located.
- Job creation: The sector contributes by creating a number of direct and indirect jobs, ensuring income for many families.
- Infrastructure: The installation of new infrastructure is a recurring need in mining projects, since they are usually located in remote areas. Therefore, they provide opportunities for beneficial works for the town and local community, such as new roads, energy services, commerce, and so on.
- Sustainable Exploration: In order to regularize a mining enterprise, it is necessary to prove through environmental licenses actions that minimize the environmental damage caused, ensuring that the mining activity will occur in accordance with sustainable development.

All this means that mining is transformed into wealth, acting as a major vector for regional and national development.

Core Case supports the legal and sustainable mining

Core Case is present wherever there is quality mining carried out responsibly!

Our values are based on developing intelligent, technological, and economically sustainable solutions so that mining enterprises can grow more and more and contribute to the national development, without giving up the environmental responsibility that is increasingly necessary!

Learn more about Core Case and our solutions!

References:

Cetem. Disponível em: http://mineralis.cetem.gov.br/bitstream/cetem/1233/1/extracao-ouro%20cap.11.pdf

Unesp. Disponível em: https://revista.fct.unesp.br/index.php/pegada/article/view/3892/3209

UOL. Disponível em: https://www1.folha.uol.com.br/ambiente/2022/09/garimpo-cresce-no-brasil-e-mais-de-91-de-sua-area-esta-na-amazonia.shtml#:~:text=Dados%20do%20MapBiomas%20apontam%20concentra%C3%A7%C3%A3o,Par%C3%A1%20e%20em%20Mato%20Grosso&text=A%20%C3%A1rea%20de%20garimpo%20no,segunda%2Dfeira%20(26).

Geoscan. Disponível em: https://www.geoscan.com.br/blog/garimpo-e-ilegal-saiba-neste-texto/ e https://www.geoscan.com.br/blog/lavra-garimpeira/.

Jazida.com. Disponível em: https://blog.jazida.com/regime-de-lavra-garimpeira/.

Chiavini e Santos. Disponível em: https://www.chiaviniesantos.com/noticia/permissao-de-lavra-garimpeira-plg/

Gazeta digital. Disponível em: https://www.gazetadigital.com.br/colunas-e-opiniao/colunas-e-artigos/aspectos-positivos-da-legalizao-de-garimpos/672010#:~:text=Al%C3%A9m%20de%20o%20Estado%20ter,das%20regi%C3%B5es%20onde%20est%C3%A3o%20localizados.

Cristal Jr. Disponível em: https://cristaljr.com/lavra-garimpeira/

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Drilling applied to environmental studies and investigation

Investigative probes consist of drilling holes in the ground or rock, to capture information about the studied region. Thus, its application is highly advantageous for environmental studies.

Drilling can be used as study strategies during all phases of an environmental investigation, varying the type of Drilling to be carried out according to the project´s final purpose.

Would you like to know more about this topic? Read to the end!

What are the phases that make up environmental research?

Drilling can contribute in different ways to environmental studies, depending on the research phase in which they are used. Generally, its use occurs more frequently in the phase of confirmatory environmental investigation, due to the phase´s purpose. Check it out below:

Preliminary Evaluation

At the preliminary phase, environmental research is based on the definition of possible human interference that could trigger environmental damages.

The studies in this phase are developed with on-site visits, document collection and history of activities developed in the area and, if there is suspicion of environmental damage, a second evaluation phase is developed.

Confirmatory Environmental Investigation

In this phase we seek to confirm the suspicions that occurred in the previous phase, making use of analysis methods such as soil sampling through surveys at strategic points in the study area.

The Drilling methods more used in environmental studies are:

For soil drilling, the percussion method (SPT) is recommended, since it is capable of providing information about the compactness and consistency of soil layers;
For rocks, the most used method is the rotary Drilling by obtaining coring, reaching great depths and enabling analysis as to the degree of alteration, schistosity and quality index, for example.

Detailed investigation

In cases where environmental damage is confirmed in the study area, a detailed investigation is carried out to delimit the damage potential occurred and its zone of influence, as well as possible intervention measures aimed at the area rehabilitation.

How to analyze which type of Drilling should be applied to the environmental study?

Investigative studies through soundings enable knowing the area characteristics in relation to the water table level, the local geological composition in detail, as well as other specific information relevant according to the type of study.

Therefore, the choice of Drilling type to be used in an environmental study should be based mainly on the evaluation interest purposes.

Drilling focusing on environmental studies

The drilling of soils with a view to environmental collection follows ABNT NBR 15492 standard and can be carried out manually, with the percussion method, or using an auger, and can also occur mechanically, using a helical or rotary Auger.

The collection and storage of environmental soil samples is carried out according to ABNT 16434 standard, with the help of liner that ensures the preservation of possible liquid and volatile contaminants for future analysis.

In the case of water samples, the procedures follow ABNT 15847 and ABNT 16435 standards, aiming at greater control and lower contamination of both samples and soil and aquifer characteristics.

How can Core Case help you?

Our company aims to promote planet preservation and, to guarantee this commitment, we are always investing in innovations and technologies that favor a sustainable and responsible exploration!

Learn more about our products! We develop several models of boxes for storage of survey coring that are environmentally sustainable!

We have specialized service for mining companies, drilling, geotechnical, engineering, environmental and related companies.

Count on us!

References:

Horizonte Ambiental. Disponível em: https://horizonteambiental.com.br/sondagem-para-investigacao-ambiental/

FX Sondagens. Disponível em: https://www.fxsondagens.com.br/investigacao-ambiental

JS Sondagens. Disponível em: https://www.jssondagens.com.br/investigacao-ambiental.php

Geo pesquisa. Disponível em: https://www.geopesquisa.com.br/investigacao-ambiental.html

Geocoring. Disponível em: https://geocoring.com.br/investigacao-ambiental/

Suporte solos. Disponível em: https://www.suportesolos.com.br/blog/a-geologia-de-engenharia-ambiental-gea-e-as-sondagens-e-investigacoes-geologicas-e-geotecnicas/214/

Mapa da Obra. Disponível em: https://www.mapadaobra.com.br/capacitacao/tipos-sondagem-do-solo/

Geológicas. Disponível em: https://geologics.com.br/investigacao-ambiental/sondagem-ambiental/

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ESG is one of the main challenges for the mining sector in 2023

As well as in 2022, ESG remains one of the biggest challenges for the mining and metals sector.

As the issue becomes a priority for all stakeholders, the industry is adjusting to ESG factors with corporate strategies, decision-making and reports.

The difference in the long run will come to those who invest in all aspects: social, environmental and governance. The mining sector needs to go further and take a holistic view to gain the investor and community´s trust in which it operates.

Check out the main opportunities and challenges in ESG for the mining sector according to a study by Ernst & Young (EY).

Water management

76% of the respondents cited water management as the main challenge in ESG, and this result has an intense relationship with climate change and concerns about water scarcity that increase year by year.

The close relationship between organizations and government needs to be a priority for mining companies. Together, they can develop plans and initiatives that aim at care and conscious use of resource within organizations.

Circular economy

Circular economy is a concept that associates economic development with a better use of natural resources, through new business models and optimization in manufacturing processes with less dependence on virgin raw material, prioritizing more durable, recyclable and renewable inputs.

This concept goes beyond the scope and focus of waste and recycling management actions, aiming at a broad scope that includes from redesigning processes, products and business models, to optimizing resources use.

Traditionally, mining operations follow a linear process of searching, mining, processing and disposing. A circular economy example in this sector can be the creation of by-products from mining tailings, which can be used both in the mining sector and in other industries.

Biodiversity

Mining companies are under increasing pressure to assess biodiversity risks in their businesses. According to EY’s research, miners will need to demonstrate that mines are considering the long-term impact on biodiversity.

In addition to avoiding negative consequences, miners must also articulate their net positive impact. An action in this case may be preserving forests in the enterprise vicinity, creating parks, zoos and social projects to preserve the local biodiversity.

Data released with credibility and clarity

Organizations around the World Report ESG information through different initiatives and programs. One of the best known and used in Brazil is GRI (Global Reporting Initiative), which enables companies of any size, sector or country to disclose their economic, environmental and social impacts, explaining how they are managed internally.

These reports purpose is ensuring quality and comparability of information that can support the stakeholders decision-making, especially investors, in targeting and allocating capital.

Around the world, regulation of carbon emissions, sustainability and social governance is increasing, and in the mining sector this is no different.

Although regulation on risk management and sustainability reporting is only starting in many countries, there is still no global regulatory standard for mandatory reporting on ESG topics, which makes it difficult to compare companies in a global investment portfolio.

To resolve this issue, IFRS Foundation Trustees formed the ISSB (International Sustainability Standards Board), which aims to develop minimum standards of information and sustainability reports to be used for decision-making in the capital market.

By complying with the new standards and expectations, the mining sector will have an obligation to improve the availability, accuracy, reliability and clarity of the data presented to all.

Mine Closure

This is one of the great industry challenges, the management of existing assets.

A proactive approach to mine closure begins when planning is carried out since the beginning of the enterprise.

Designing a mine with closure in mind allows for continued engagement of owners, employees and communities, creating opportunities for progressive activities closure.

Mine closure impacts a wide range of stakeholders and expectations are rising about how miners mitigate these impacts, including socioeconomic effects on communities.

Improving diversity, equity and inclusion

The main problems include:

Female participation increase: companies still struggle to attract, retain and promote women, depriving them of the spotlight as well as the proven benefits of a more gender-diverse workforce;
Safety and support for the local community: companies need to change the way mining sites are built and operated to improve safety and support for all workers. For example, the construction of local kindergartens and schools could attract different people to mining and provide a positive contribution to the community.
Building a brand with purpose: mining must do more to build a brand aligned with the purpose and values of the next talent generation.

Health and Safety

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many companies have boosted worker health support, but the industry still needs to do more to improve psychological health and safety.

Fly-in fly-out employees, for example, face challenges getting support, a problem that has increased with pandemic-related seclusion and isolation. Bullying and harassment are also other points that are linked to ongoing issues around a lack of diversity, inclusion and respect.

The recently published standard ISO 45003:2021 is a globally recognized framework of how to manage and protect mental well-being at work. It can be an opportunity to reform the safety culture in mining.

Another factor to consider is reintegration into the workforce. Data show that 90% of people who suffer a physical injury return to work within 90 days, but only 50% of people who took leave because of mental health problems returned after six months.

Mining and metals companies need to develop an approach to reintegrate these workers, especially when work is a causal factor behind their illness. This can include, for example, reviewing workloads, creating a support network and ensuring a mentally safe workplace. As physical injuries at work can also trigger mental health challenges, offering physical and mental health support can help employees return to work and full health.

Core Case - a company aligned with ESG pillars

Since the conception, Core Case carries with it the ESG pillars. The company was born to produce cases for survey cores storage in 100% recycled plastic. This goal was achieved and over the 12 years of history, Core Case has become a reference in Brazil.

In addition to the sustainable cases for survey testimonies, Core Case develops actions that favor the development of projects related to corporate governance, environmental and social sustainability.

Know our initiatives: ESG – Core Case.

In addition, we emphasize that the role of Brazilian mining in implementing ESG practices can contribute significantly to an increase in the sector visibility and acceptance, which, despite being so relevant, are still widely criticized by society.

Reference

Top 10 business risks and opportunities for mining and metals in 2023. Ernest & Young.

Circular economy. Available in https://www.portaldaindustria.com.br/industria-de-a-z/economia-circular/#:~:text=Economia%20circular%20%C3%A9%20um%20conceito,mais%20dur%C3%A1veis%2C%20recicl%C3%A1veis%20e%20renov%C3%A1veis.

IFRS. Available in https://www.ifrs.org/groups/international-sustainability-standards-board/.

What is ISSB. Available in https://blog.waycarbon.com/2022/09/a-criacao-do-issb-e-a-unificacao-da-estrutura-de-relato-climatico/.

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Wooden core boxes: 3 reasons not to use them

In recent years, the use of wood for transporting and storing drill cores has come under increasing scrutiny, mainly due to increasingly stringent environmental and occupational safety laws and after QA/QC -related good practices became more widely known and were required in audits in the mining industry.

As we have covered in our blog, drilling is drilling holes in soil or rock and provides valuable information about a mineral deposit.

Any undertaking, be it in the mining, geotechnical, or hydrogeological sector, has a duty to ensure the quality and reliability of these materials. It is from them that various geological characteristics are evaluated with respect to a project.

The correct storage of these materials is required according to the mineral legislation, and is a fundamental requirement for a company to remain competitive in the market.

Having said this, let’s list some points that can make you evaluate the use of boxes made of wood for the storage of core samples. Check it out

Origin of the raw material

Assessing the origin of the material/product used in your company is very important, and with wood it can be no different.

Native wood of legal origin comes from a cut authorized by the competent environmental agency and has a transport and storage license document.

Have you already certified that the wood used in the core sample boxes you use in your project is in fact legalized?

Durability

A very important topic to be considered when purchasing a product is the material’s useful life.

And here we highlight this topic not only because of the financial costs, but also because of the excessive disposal of materials that we cannot reuse, which directly harms the environment.

Wooden boxes are not very efficient in contact with insects and when they are subjected to sun and weather, which can lead to high product turnover, improper disposal and high costs with the storage of core samples.

Ergonomics and work safety

Boxes made of wood are usually very heavy. To its original weight we must add the weight of the core samples that will be stored inside, which can jeopardize the health and safety of the employees that handle these materials.

The norms related to ergonomics were created so that the collaborators are subjected to fewer risks in the work environment and are comfortable to perform their activities.

In addition, we should point out that some dangerous animals such as snakes, spiders, and scorpions can “hide” in wood, posing great risk to the staff.

In the content “Drilling Record: Wooden boxes versus plastic boxes” you can consult some more information on this topic.

Paying attention to the health and safety of employees, cost reduction, and legality of your enterprise can be the key to develop a serious and consolidated company in the market.

We are the Core Case. Where there is quality mining, we are present!

Learn more about our solutions.

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3 benefits of purchasing a patented product

You may have heard the term “Patent” or even that a product is “Patented”. But what does that really mean?

According to the INPI (National Institute of Industrial Property), a patent is a temporary property title over an invention or utility model, granted by the State to inventors or authors or other natural or legal persons holding rights over the creation.

With this right, the inventor or patent holder has the right to prevent third parties, without their consent, from producing, using, offering for sale, selling or importing a product subject to their patent and/or a process or a product obtained directly through a process. patented by him.

To innovate is to risk to transform

Innovation is in our DNA.

Regardless of the sector, the biggest challenge for a company is to create value and make a difference in the consumer’s life with an original and authentic proposal, which is capable of representing, in fact, the essence and vision of the brand, and solving it completely. your client’s pain.

Creating something new is not easy, but innovating is a choice for companies that want to stand out and leave a positive legacy for those who trust their solutions.

The use of wooden boxes for transport and packaging of drill cores used in the mineral sector brought operational difficulties, common in many companies in the mining sector.

To offer a new alternative to the market and solve this problem, Core Case developed solutions and plastic products with the same purpose, but with several advantages.

And that’s where the Patent comes into play.

Core Case product innovations are protected by Patents and Industrial Design Registration in Brazil and abroad, in addition to having ISO 9001 Quality Certification.

Petro Case – one of the Core Case solutions that has been patented.

INNOVATION is one of the pillars that accompanies Core Case, and protecting our creation is fundamental.

However, does this benefit only favor the company or does it also provide benefits to the consumer?

Benefits of purchasing a patented product

1.Transparency and security

From the moment the inventor receives his patent, he is obliged to disclose in detail all the technical content of the patented material/product. In other words, this guarantees transparency and provides security to the consumer, as he will be sure that he has all the necessary information when purchasing such a product.

2.Increase in qualified competition

By purchasing a product that has a patent, you are informing the market that it is necessary to develop high quality products and encourage competitors to seek technological alternatives to stand out in the market.

3.Guarantee of exclusivity

By placing your trust in patented products, you guarantee that you are not purchasing a solution that is considered a “copy” and that you are in fact investing in something exclusive in the market and that will bring the best solutions for your business.

Core Case continues to invest heavily in technology and innovation with the intention of making its products more and more suited to the needs of the sector, while fully respecting the environment.

Did you already know the benefits of the patent?

Discover our solutions and be surprised.

Where there is quality mining, there is Core Case.

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Oil and gas: extraction steps, types of drilling and samples generated

In Brazil, the first survey with the objective of finding Petroleum was carried out in São Paulo, between 1892-1896, by Eugênio Ferreira de Camargo. It reached a depth of 488 meters, but the well produced only sulfurous water. It was only in 1938 that oil was discovered in Lobato, Bahia.

In 1968, the first oil field was discovered on the Brazilian continental shelf, in Sergipe. Since then, many wells have been drilled.

Would you like to know more about the oil, extraction steps, drilling and samples generated in this process? Read this content until the end.

A Brief Introduction on Petroleum

Petroleum is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons and varying amounts of non-hydrocarbons. In short, it is generated from the transformation of organic matter accumulated in sedimentary rocks, when subjected to appropriate thermal conditions.

Oil platform.

When it occurs in the liquid state in subsurface or surface reservoirs, it is called oil (or crude oil, to differentiate it from refined oil).

The mixture of hydrocarbons that is in the gas state on subsurface and turns into liquid on the surface is known a condensate.

Now the term natural gas refers to the fraction of oil that occurs in the gaseous state or in solution in oil in subsurface reservoirs.

Oil extraction steps

Oil is an abundant natural resource, but its research involves high costs and complex studies.

An oil well can be considered as an engineering project, thus, it requires that a series of premises and variables be obeyed, so that the intervention is optimized in time, cost and adequate safety.

Drilling equipment.

Oil, like any mineral good, has well-defined stages for its extraction to be carried out. Here we can briefly summarize 3 of them: prospecting, drilling and extraction.

Prospection

This step is the first to be carried out and aims to carry out studies and apply methods that identify the existence of oil in a given location. These analyses are carried out in sedimentary basins and several direct and indirect methods are used. For this, geologists, geophysicists and paleontologists, among other specialists, gather to carry out the necessary research.

Drilling

At this stage, oil deposits are discovered and several wells are drilled in the surroundings to define the limits of the deposit and assess the volume of reserves. Drilling is a destructive process, where a drill bit advances over the rock formation, breaking it into centimeter to millimeter fragments.

It can be done on land, using drilling rigs, or at sea, with the help of offshore platforms, depending on where the mineral is found.

Extraction

Extraction is influenced by the amount of gas accumulated in the deposit. If it is large, it will be able to push the oil to the surface, without the need for pumping, at least in the initial phase of production, simply by installing a pipe that communicates the well with the outside. If the gas pressure is weak or zero, extraction pumps will be needed.

Types of perforation

During this process, several drillings can and should be carried out in the project in order to find new oil deposits or even to understand in detail the extent of the current explored deposit. Check out some types of perforations:

Pioneer well: well drilled at the beginning of research for oil/natural gas;
Stratigraphic well: aims to map the stratigraphy of the region;
Extension or delimitation well: as the name implies, this type of well is made to enlarge or demarcate the limits of a deposit;
Adjacent Pioneer Well: aims to discover new deposits close to an area that has already been explored;
Well for shallower deposits: this is done with the aim of finding out if there are shallower deposits than those already discovered in a given area;
Well for a deeper deposit: this is done with the aim of discovering if there are deeper deposits than those already discovered in a given area;
Production or development well: well that allows the drainage of oil from a field;
Injection well or injector: aims to increase or improve the recovery of oil and natural gas from a reservoir;

In addition to the concepts mentioned above, we can classify the type of drilling according to the direction:

Vertical well: probe and target (or objective) are vertical;
Directional well: any well in which drilling is not performed vertically;
Horizontal well: made horizontally, especially to ensure better use of oil.

Type of perforation according to direction. Source: Instituto Fisiomar

Samples of rocks and fluids generated in the oil and natural gas exploration and production process

Samples are portions of rock, sediment or fluid extracted from the well, from the ocean floor surface or from the land surface.

According to the ANP, the following samples are collected within the scope of oil and natural gas exploration and production activities in Brazilian sedimentary basins:

Core samples and their respective plugs;
Gutter samples;
Side samples;
Fluid samples;
Rocks or sediments obtained from land or ocean floor surveys.
Thin, biostratigraphic blades and polished sections;
Sample profiling;

Sample types. Source: Petrocase – Core Case

Plugs

Fractions, generally cylindrical, obtained from cores and normally used in petrophysical tests to determine the porosity and permeability of a reservoir rock.

Gutter samples

Biostratigraphic: Type of blade that is prepared with special techniques for the preservation, concentration and recovery of the fossiliferous content of a rock. The analysis of such blades essentially aims at the relative dating and the determination of the sedimentation paleoenvironment.

Thin: A type of blade that is prepared with rock fragments polished to a thin thickness and intended for observation with a transmitted light petrographic microscope (provided with adaptations for microscopic analysis of rocks).

Both aim to determine the mineralogical content of the rock and its microstructures.

Side samples

Samples obtained from the wall of the well, approximately cylindrical in shape, whose acquisition aims to preserve the structure of the rock and provide security as to the depth of the extraction.

Fluids

Substances that do not resist tangential or shear forces, deforming continuously and taking the shape of the container in which it is contained. Examples: water, gas and oil.

Core sample

Sample obtained in a well, usually of cylindrical shape, whose acquisition aims to sample specific strata of rock, preserving its structural characteristics, and with precision in the extraction depth.

Core Case and its performance in the Oil and Gas sector

CORE CASE is a Brazilian-Canadian company with 11 years of existence that has consolidated itself in the mining market and is present in the most important companies in the segment.

Our purpose is to add value to the production process of the largest companies in the extraction of natural resources (mining, oil and gas), prioritizing long-term sustainability.

See in the video below the solutions we have developed for the oil and gas sector.

Count on us on your project!

References

Instituto Fisiomar: http://institutofisiomar.com.br/blog/?p=2103

ANP: https://www.gov.br/anp/pt-br/assuntos/exploracao-e-producao-de-oleo-e-gas/dados-tecnicos/amostras-de-rochas-e-fluidos

Etesco: https://etesco.com.br/extracao-de-petroleo-como-e-feito-esse-processo/ and https://etesco.com.br/perfuracao-quais-os-tipos-existentes/

Igeológico: http://igeologico.com.br/perfuracao-de-pocos-de-petroleo-panorama-geral/

SGB-CPRM: http://www.cprm.gov.br/publique/SGB-Divulga/Canal-Escola/Petroleo-1256.html#:~:text=A%20Petrobras%20est%C3%A1%20entre%20as,commodities%20minerais%20produzidas%20pelo%20Brasil.

Book: Geologia do Petróleo (Petroleum Geology)

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