Drilling in Exploration
In the absence of distinctive outcrops, as well as when outcrops are found, drilling is a widely used method of underground exploration in advance of the sinking of shafts or the driving of tunnels. Drilling is more useful in the locating and proving of mineral deposits of large bulk, like deposits of coal, iron, and oil, than mineral deposits of small bulk and high value, like gold and silver deposits. However, it is not always used in the exploration of the first class of deposits and is not always eliminated in the exploration of the second class. With the development of better mechanical devices, better methods of controlling and ascertaining the direction of the drill hole, and more skillful interpretation of drill samples, the use of drilling is rapidly extending into mineral fields where it was formerly thought not applicable.
The geologist takes an active part in drilling operations by locating the drill holes, by determining the angle of the holes, by identifying and interpreting the samples, by studying bedding, cleavage, and other structures as shown in the samples, and determining the attitude of these structures in the ground, by determining when the horizon is reached which is most promising for mineral, and by determining when the hole shall be stopped. With a given set of surface conditions, the problem of locating and directing a drill hole to secure the maximum possible results for the amount expended requires the careful consideration of many geologic factors,—and, what is more important, their arrangement in proper perspective and relationship. Faulty reasoning from any one of the principal factors, or over-emphasis on any one of them, or failure to develop an accurate three-dimensional conception of the underground structural conditions, may lead to failure or extra expense. Success or failure is swiftly and definitely determined. The geologist is usually employed by the company financing the drilling; but in recognition of the importance of his work, some of the large contracting drill companies now employ their own geologists. The technique of the geologic interpretation and direction of drilling has become rather complicated and formidable, and has resulted in the introduction of special college courses in these subjects.
The desirability of public registration of drilling records is discussed on another page (pp. 305-306).
Quantitative Aspects of Geologic Exploration
In recent years there has been a tendency to reduce the geologic factors in exploration to some kind of a quantitative basis. While these factors may be very variable and very complex, their net effect frequently may be expressed in terms of quantitative averages. In various mines and mining districts where operations are of wide extent, local quantitative factors have been worked out which are useful in predicting results from proposed explorations in undeveloped portions. Figures of this sort may be useful and practical guides in planning any given exploration, its cost, and its probable outcome.
Quantitative methods are illustrated in the general account of Lake Superior iron ore exploration in a later section.
Curves of production from oil wells and from oil districts have been found to have certain characteristic features in common which are often used in predicting the future output and life of a given well, property, or district. Where associated with coal, the percentage of fixed carbon in the coal may be a guide to the presence and nature of the oil (see Chapter VIII).
The geological staff of the Netherlands East Indies estimated the tin reserves of one of these islands by the use of a factor or coefficient, based on the experience of another island.
In the Cobalt district of Canada a factor for future discoveries and output, based on past experience, was similarly developed.