Volume 21 November 2024 Booth 1519
semcopumphoist@gmail.com semcooflamar.com PO Box 1174 7595 US Hwy 50 Lamar CO 81052-1174 800-541-1562 719-336-9006 719-336-2402 Fax SEMCO S20,000 PUMP HOIST, 48’ derrick, 84” derrick conversion, direct mount PTO pump for manual transmission, two-speed main line winch with grooved drum, 2000’ capacity sand reel, hydraulic oil cooler dual fans, auxiliary hydro valve, power arm, 30T double/triple line block, 18’ steel flatbed factory mounted on Freightliner M2. This unit is SOLD. Stop by Booth 103 during Groundwater Week December 10-12 to get a quote. Can't make it to the show? Give us a call at 719-336-9006
Booth 377 At Acker, we know that no two jobs are alike. That’s why we offer an extensive lineup of drill rigs. Whether you need ferocious power, or restricted-access drilling capabilities, there is an Acker rig for everyone. Our rigs also offer extensive customization to fit each customer’s needs. We offer various options for toolboxes, hoists, and even water pumps! Our drill rigs’ capabilities are why they are a part of fleets across the globe. So what are you waiting for? Get yours today! Big, Small, We Have Them All!
Booth 663
Are you Planning to go?...................................................23 Breaking News..................................................................13 Classifieds: WorldWide Buyers’ Guide™..............51-64 Dealmakers.......................................................................48 Education Connection......................................................15 Fun Page...........................................................................48 Hot Off the Press.................................................................9 Obituary: Morrison, Robert Lewis...................................12 Obituary: Wagstaff, William R. “Bill”...............................12 Photo Page.....................................................................8,60 Product Spotlight..............................................................49 Who’s in the News............................................................13 WorldWide Association Memberships................................62 WorldWide Groundwater Week Expo Pinpointer Map.....31-33 WorldWide .........6 WorldWide Subscription Form...........................................34 Acker Drill Company.............................................................3 Allegheny Instruments........................................................18 Armstrong Machine Co., Inc. (AMCI)..................................30 Atlantic Screen & Manufacturing, Inc. (ASI)........................42 Baker Water Systems.........................................................26 Better Water Industries Inc..................................................47 Bit Brokers International (BBI)............................................15 Bitco, Inc.............................................................................25 Blackadar Insurance Agency...............................................24 Drilling Equipment Sales, Inc. (DES).................................64 Drilling Supply & Mfg (DSM)...............................................21 Empire State Water Well Drillers Assoc. (ESWWDA) Ann. Mtg..13 GEFCO (BAUER Equipment America, Inc.)..........................1 GeoPro, Inc.........................................................................37 Geoprobe Systems®............................................................63 Geothermal Supply Company, Inc. (GSC)..........................23 Heron Instruments, Inc.......................................................40 Hole Products ....................................................................44 Horizon Hoist......................................................................39 Infinity Tool Manufacturing....................................................4 Infinity Tool Manufacturing..................................................27 KS Bit, Inc...........................................................................61 Louisiana Ground Water Association (LGWA) Convention...27 Mills Machine Company, Inc...............................................35 N&N Drilling Supply.............................................................12 National Ground Water Assoc. (NGWA) Groundwater Week..22 Palmer Bit Company...........................................................19 PennDrill Mfg........................................................................9 Premier Drill Products, LLC……………..............................28 Pulstar Manufacturing.........................................................29 SEMCO, Inc..........................................................................2 Star Iron Works, Inc. - Construction....................................17 Star Iron Works, Inc. - Water Well.......................................16 TDH Manufacturing Inc.......................................................14 TDH Manufacturing Inc.......................................................50 Terra Sonic International.....................................................41 Texas Ground Water Association (TGWA) Convention.......36 Utah Ground Water Association (UGWA) Conf. and Expo..43 Well-Vu, Inc.........................................................................46 Wyo-Ben, Inc.......................................................................45 Advertisers Featured Editorial C&G - Construction/Geotechnical ENV - Environmental G&O - Shallow Gas and Oil MIN - Mining DIR - Horizontal Directional Drilling EXB - Exploration/Blasthole GEO - Geothermal WTR - Water November 2024 - Geothermal Materials and Gear CONST ENV EXB G&O GEOTECH GEO HDD MIN WTR Aardvark Packers Acker Drill Company Atlantic Screen & Mfg.,Inc. Bit Brokers International Centerline Mfg. Co. ChemGrout® Diedrich Drill Drill King International Drill Pipe, Inc. Drilling Equip. Resources Eastern Driller Mfg. (EDM) Eijkelkamp North America Get Association Help™ Heisey Machine Co. Hole Products Kovai Drilling Applications Merrill Manufacturing PennDrill Mfg. Pulstar Mfg. Star Iron Works, Inc. T&T Carbide, Inc. VMAC Western Drilling Tools Windmill 702 Machine Learning Can Improve TBM Wear...............19 Construction Planning for the 2028 Olympic Games...25 Supporting Mental Health in the Construction Ind.....37 Battersby, Mark E.: Drilling Into Money Not Boring..16 GeoStar 2.0 is Officially in Operations.......................29 Soil Mixing Solutions for Effective ISS Remediation....42 Two New Solar Farms for Gove Peninsula................45 Drones for Blasting and Mining Operations...............17 E-News Readers’ Choice - Stunning Discovery..........18 Wilson, Jr., Robert Evans: The Un-Comfort Zone II...38 Updated Gas and Oil Leasing Regulations................14 Smith, Billy Bob: The “Idiots” Corner.......................20 TXOGA Inspiring the Next Generation......................48 A New Intake Gate for Spirit Lake..............................30 What Will Happen to the Rainbow Bridge?................40 Storkson, Britt: New & Improved Isn’t Always.........43 Geothermal Retrofit for NGWA’s Headquarters.........11 Peterson, Ronald: Geothermal Heating..................23 Geothermal Drilling and Testing Underway................26 Sage Geosystems Advances Geothermal Energy at...41 Not-a-Boring Competition 2024.................................27 Connor, Tim: Life’s Risks - or Opportunities?...........36 Guidance on Trenchless Installation.........................44 Moving Power Lines Underground............................47 Rahul Jadhav’s Journey............................................28 Completion of Inaugural ISR Field Test Program......49 A Collaborative Triumph in Training and Innovation........7 Rasmussen, Tim: Water for Life International..........35 5 NOVEMBER 2024 WorldWide Drilling Resource®
~ From Our House to Your House ~ This is truly a special month in the hearts of many throughout this world; for November is a time of giving thanks for our blessings as those mighty strong Pilgrims did so long ago for their safety across those fierce, yet scenic oceans they crossed - and thanks for the bounty they shared that special First Thanksgiving Day. And now, as we give thanks for our strong heritage which helped raise those since who have kept us, for the most part, out of harm’s way, able to raise our own families, and give us strength to carry on in the darkest times of our lives; let us remember our VETERANS VETERANS near and far on this NOVEMBER 11, 2024. Please say a prayer of thanks . . . Proudly Made in the United States of America - delivered WorldWide! WorldWide Drilling Resource® The complete magazine for the drilling industry worldwide, owned by drilling industry associates dedicated to bringing the most up-to-date technology and information to subscribers. Covering construction-geotechnical, directional, environmental, exploration-blasthole, shallow gas & oil, geothermal, mining, water well, irrigation, wastewater; from bits, to pumps, to rigs, to tanks, through wire, and more. Whatever it takes to get the drilling job done! Managing Publisher/CEO/President: Veronica I. “Ronnie” Jones Vice President: Troy Cunningham Office Administrator: Michele Stevens Editor: Bonnie Love Public Relations Professional/Display: Sheryl Kevilly Public Relations Professional/Classified: Linda Peterson Representative: Marie Cunningham Editorial Assistant: Sophia Henline Editorial Contributors for this month Mark Battersby Tim Connor Ron Peterson Tim Rasmussen “Billy Bob Smith” Britt Storkson Robert Evans Wilson, Jr. Guest Contributor: YOUR NAME COULD APPEAR HERE! Call 850-547-0102 Hyd/Eng Consultant: Thomas Kwader, Ph.D.,P.G. Consultant: Mary Ann Pelletier Editorial contributions & advertisements include statements of fact and opinions that are the sole responsibility of the author and/or companies and do not necessarily imply any opinion of the owners, management, or staff of WorldWide Drilling Resource® . Images may have been altered for clarity. Complete advertising information may be found at: www.worldwidedrillingresource.com or by calling 850-547-0102. WorldWide Drilling Resource® makes every effort not to place advertisements for “like” products on the same page in our publication; this may occur however, due to size and space within the publication. We regret any inconvenience this may cause our advertisers. WorldWide Drilling Resource® is published monthly by: WorldWide Drilling Resource, Inc., a Florida Corporation, independently owned and operated. PO Box 660 (3089 Northride Lane) Bonifay FL 32425-0660. Telephone: 850-547-0102 Fax: 850-547-0329 E-mail: wwdr@worldwidedrillingresource.com Website: www.worldwidedrillingresource.com Copyright 2024 WorldWide Drilling Resource, Inc. Seen by countless WorldWide. Publication Agreement No. 40892520. Back issues may be requested. Cost per issue $10.00 USD. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner without the strict written consent of the publishers. Advertising rates furnished upon request. Editorial contributions are welcome subject to editorial review.* WorldWide Drilling Resource® reserves the right to refuse any advertisement. We Recycle 6 NOVEMBER 2024 WorldWide Drilling Resource® With Pen - Computer in hand . . . Veronica I. “Ronnie” Jones, 850-547-0102 ronnie@worldwidedrillingresource.com Featured Articles for November Advancements at Fort Bliss Page 41 The Geostar 2.0 Page 29 Geothermal Retrofit Page 11 Training and Innovation Page 7 Drilling and Testing Page 26 Next Up . . . You guessed it ~ GROUNDWATER WEEK ~ Las Vegas Style!
7 NOVEMBER 2024 WorldWide Drilling Resource® A Collaborative Triumph in Training and Innovation Adapted from Information by Equip International Equip International, a North Carolina-based 501(c)(3) organization, stands at the forefront of missionary support and training. Dedicated to advancing global development, Equip focuses on five critical areas: Medical, Housing, Food Production, Community Development, and Water Technologies. Under the visionary leadership of Equip International’s President Ben Adkins, the organization is undergoing a transformative period, introducing innovative strategies, and expanding its impact. Adkins has been pivotal in driving the organization’s forward momentum. His fresh and innovative approach is revolutionizing how the organization trains individuals and supports missions. One of Equip’s significant achievements over the past two decades has been its training programs in rotary mud drilling led by Director of Appropriate Technology Kieth Larrimore. The organization has effectively used the LS-100 manual drilling rig to create six-inch boreholes through various rock formations up to 100 feet deep and has taught essential manual drilling methods such as hand augering and manual percussion. A landmark moment came about 15 years ago when the organization sought advice from Givens International Drilling Supplies. This led to a valuable partnership with Mark Whittle of Baroid Industrial Drilling Products (IDP). Before Whittle’s involvement, Equip used more than a bag of bentonite per well, alongside guar gum, which proved inefficient. Whittle’s expertise in drilling fluids enabled the organization to halve their bentonite use by adjusting pH levels and incorporating polymers. This not only improved the quality of the boreholes, but also minimized the risk of contaminating aquifers with materials that could sustain microbial life. Whittle began his distinguished career in 1989 as a geologist, specializing in drilling, coring, and well design and construction at the Pinewood hazardous waste landfill, in South Carolina. His early work at the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) was instrumental in the Central Midlands Private Well Program in Columbia, South Carolina. As one of the four original inspectors for the private well program, Whittle's contributions were pivotal in improving local well standards and environmental safety. He also worked with the DHEC Federal Facilities Group and continued to make significant strides in environmental protection and clean-up. Transitioning to Baroid IDP, Whittle applied his expertise across the Southeast, focusing on optimizing drilling techniques and improving well performance. Driven by a deep-seated passion for solving complex water-related challenges, Whittle finds immense satisfaction in helping communities worldwide access clean, safe drinking water. He is dedicated to educating others about the opportunities for learning well drilling techniques, ensuring the most vulnerable populations have access to essential water resources. His knowledge and experience have been a blessing to all those he has trained at Equip. The evolution in Equip’s training methodologies reflects this enhancement. Students from across North America and around the world have benefited from a streamlined approach, which has significantly boosted their success rates in their respective mission endeavors. Furthermore, Kyle Hoover, a hydrogeologist, engineer, and Equip board member, has enriched the association’s programs by offering evening classes on well drilling and site assessment, further augmenting the training experience. Equip’s collaboration with Baroid IDP introduced the organization to Matthew Brown of Yadkin Well Company, Inc., who has made substantial contributions to training with improved grouting and well abandonment techniques. Brown, who has extensive experience drilling in challenging environments like Haiti, has also facilitated the establishment of a well at Equip's Innovation Village showcasing various appropriate technologies. The new well drilling and installation served as an educational offering for over 120 drill operators, environmental health experts, and hydrogeologists from across the state. This effort was supported by several key figures and organizations: Ashley Moretz of Moretz Well provided the well drilling services, and Grundfos, through Chris Myers, donated a versatile pump capable of operating on either solar or grid energy. This collaborative effort highlights Equip’s commitment to practical, innovative solutions that can be applied in remote and resource-limited settings. The introduction of these advancements is a testament to the collaborative spirit driving Equip International. Mark Whittle’s insights into fluid dynamics, Matthew Brown’s expertise in drilling practices, and the support from organizations like Grundfos have all played crucial roles in refining Equip’s training programs. Ben Adkins’ leadership, combined with the contributions from these dedicated experts, is steering Equip International toward new horizons. Their collective efforts ensure Equip continues to provide high-quality training and support to those engaged in mission work and development projects. For more information about Equip International and its range of classes, please visit their website https://www.EquipInternational.org Video of the Innovation Village well drilling can be found on the organization’s YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@EquipInternational. Matthew Brown, Yadkin Well Company, Inc.; Mark Whittle, Baroid IDP; Jonathan Kamianka, Bill's Well Drilling; Bobby Allred and Russell Underwood, Charles R. Underwood, Inc. WTR
8 NOVEMBER 2024 WorldWide Drilling Resource® Adam, Matt, and Paul were all smiles for Hole Products. Central Mine Equipment had some big equipment on display. Nick with Baski, Inc. Mike and Mike had a great display from Blake Equipment. Wyo-Ben welcomed attendees. Happy Retirement, Stewart! Future Drilling Professional Truman Miller of West Virginia. Did you get by to see Derek with Drilling Equipment Resources? Eastern Driller Manufacturing sent Jeff to meet attendees. The Eijkelkamp guys got a visit from this Virginia buyer. Jacob was ready to discuss this new pump hoist from TDH Mfg. David was on hand for Geothermal Supply Company. Ryan and Dave were busy in the SIMCO Drilling Equipment booth. Pulstar Manufacturing sent Levi to show off their equipment. Merrill Manufacturing Bit Brokers International Gary was proud to represent Star Iron Works, Inc. Jeff demonstrated Allegheny’s GeoVISION camera systems. ChemGrout ® ’s Rob & Joe were rocking their themed shirts. WWDR was happy to see longtime subscriber Mr. Joe Barbee. Baker Water Systems This is just a sneak peek ~ visit www.worldwidedrillingresource.com/gallery.html for more photos online! Todd and James were happy to represent Infinity Tool Mfg. WWDR’s Sophia, Mary Lynn, and Sheryl . . . back on the trail. SEMCO’s crew was out in force for the JUBILEE crowd. JUBILEE Board of Directors and sponsors get the show started.
9 NOVEMBER 2024 WorldWide Drilling Resource® Teleoperation Advancements Komatsu introduced a new capability within its drill automation package: non-line-of-sight drilling for their blasthole drill line. The breakthrough allows operators to remotely control drilling operations from off-site locations within the customer's network, offering increased flexibility and safety. The new drill automation technology is designed to reduce operational variability, leading to improvements in blasthole quality and fragmentation through precise execution of drill patterns. Customer benefits include more consistent production output, reduced machine wear from less experienced operators, and improved downstream process efficiencies. “Komatsu’s drill automation technology portfolio is designed to provide flexibility and support our customers’ growing need for remote and autonomous drilling. Non-line-of-sight teleremote operation is our next exciting offering, expanding upon our existing capabilities to provide more operational freedom, safety, and productivity,” said Jesse Dubberly, Komatsu’s vice president of surface drilling. Teleoperation capabilities were also added to its mining dozers, integrating Modular ProVision machine guidance with automatic blade control for precise and reliable remote operation, even in the most hazardous environments, such as stockpiles and ripping applications. Live demonstrations were held during MINExpo in September, where the operator was at the Las Vegas Convention Center and the machines were in Arizona. For a link, click on this box in our online issue. No online issue? Register at worldwidedrillingresource.com
85 sales@aardva “Quality Packers Y Mechanical Inflatable Environmental Geotechnica Packer Parts 55-546-6488 arkpackers com You Can Count On” Wireline Straddle al Mining Grout Packers Custom Design s aardvarkpackers.com sales@aardvarkpackers.com 6707 Netherlands Drive Wilmington, NC 28405 O M 919 694 1114 *2005 512 789 9709 E m.epley@sonicsampdrill.com I www.royaleijkelkamp.com/en-us/ Mike Epley Drilling Sales Manager Association Need Help? 850-547-0102 - Ronnie 10 NOVEMBER 2024 WorldWide Drilling Resource®
11 NOVEMBER 2024 WorldWide Drilling Resource® Geothermal Retrofit for NGWA’s Headquarters Adapted from Information by NGWA The National Ground Water Association’s (NGWA) headquarters, in Westerville, Ohio, broke ground on its geothermal retrofit in 2023. Jackson Geothermal of Mansfield, Ohio, drilled 20 boreholes for a vertical closed-loop system to replace the Association’s outdated heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system. Prior to drilling, thermal conductivity was tested and the values were inserted into the model to ensure the loop field will serve the building’s energy needs. Jackson Geothermal drilled the top 65 feet with fluid drilling, then set casing, and drilled out of the casing with air. They used a polycrystalline diamond compact bit to drill the rock formation. After drilling the borehole, the loop was set, the borehole was then grouted from the bottom all the way up to the bottom of the casing at 65 feet. The casing was then removed, and the remainder of the hole was grouted up to the surface. Once they were done drilling, the company started the horizontal piping phase in October 2023, which took about two weeks to complete. Eighteen units (nine furnaces and nine air conditioners) were replaced by nine geothermal units housed in the lower level of the 15,970-square-foot building. The internal conversion was completed by Federal Elite Heating & Cooling Inc. of Pataskala, Ohio. It is expected to generate more than $250,000 in energy savings and a reduction of 640plus tons of carbon dioxide over the next 30 years, according to design estimates. This project was made possible by utilizing the geothermal tax credits available for nonprofit organizations and many industry partners. “We’re excited to showcase our building as the model home for geothermal to industry members, public policy officials, legislators, and the general public,” said NGWA CEO Terry Morse. GEO
12 NOVEMBER 2024 WorldWide Drilling Resource® In Memoriam Robert Lewis Morrison (1952~2024) The South Carolina Ground Water Association was saddened to report the loss of past president and member of its Board of Directors, Robert Lewis Morrison on September 12, 2024. Born in Chester, South Carolina, Robert graduated Lewisville High School then served in the South Carolina National Guard for more than six years. He was owner and operator of Morrison Well Drilling. Robert is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Terri; children Kevin (Jody) and April (Damon); grandchildren Gavin, Macey, Keegan, Eli, Colt, and Ava; brother Joe; sister Beth (Jamie); and numerous nieces and nephews. William R. “Bill” Wagstaff (1934~2024) William R. “Bill” Wagstaff of Zanesville, Ohio, left this earth on September 10, 2024, to spend eternity with the love of his life, his wife Sylvia, who passed away in 2013. Born in Zanesville, he worked for Allied Machine Works for 40 years, retiring in 1997. He was a member of Y-City Bass Masters for many years with his love of fishing taking him on trips with family and friends to local lake and river tournaments - to many of the Great Lakes, Florida Keys, Ontario, and Alaska. As an avid small and big game hunter, he hunted in Ohio for squirrel, quail, duck, turkey, grouse, rabbit, and whitetail deer. He went to Montana for mule deer and Quebec for caribou. He also bowled for many years, scoring a perfect 300 in February of 1967, after Sylvia who bowled her perfect game in June of 1966. Bill is survived by his children Mitzi (Jeff), William (Dawn), and Richard (Gwyn); granddaughters Jodi and Lori (Matthew); three great-grandchildren Kyle (Callie), Hayli (Clint), and Liam; and brother Jack (Dot). The management and staff of WWDR extend their condolences to Robert’s and Bill’s family and friends. Lest we forget . . .
13 NOVEMBER 2024 WorldWide Drilling Resource® Vanair System Wins Top 50 New Product Award The Vanair®, a Lincoln Electric Company, PTO shaft-driven underdeck ALL-IN-ONE Power System® has been named one of the favorite new construction products of 2024. The 2024 Contractors’ Top 50 New Products represent the best and brightest new product introductions and enhancements that exhibit innovation, quality, efficiency, and productivity in the construction equipment field. John Dunn, national sales manager of government/utility at Vanair stated, “The new Underdeck ALL-IN-ONE is a must-have for serious contractors! A truly unique underbody multifunction solution that increases jobsite efficiency with rich features way beyond what you can imagine.” Dunn went on to say, “If you've ever experienced delays on a jobsite due to common issues like missing compressors, faulty equipment, fuel shortages, or theft, the PTO shaft-driven underdeck ALL-IN-ONE Power System can be a valuable asset. This system addresses these problems by providing a reliable and integrated power solution.” For a link, click on this box in our online issue. No online issue? Register at worldwidedrillingresource.com WHO’S IN THE NEWS Send your Who’s in the News and Breaking News announcements to bonnie@ worldwidedrillingresource.com Alloy Machine Works Alloy Machine Works, Inc., a leading independent manufacturer of premium filtration screens, announced Luis Garcia has joined the team as president/CEO. Garcia brings over 20 years of experience in leading teams through successful development, manufacturing, and commercialization of sand control and other downhole products. Luis Garcia Empire State Water Well Drillers Association 2025 Annual Meeting January 14 15, 2025 Turning Stone Casino Verona, NY nywelldriller.org Q Auction Q Exhibits Q Seminars Q Cocktail Party Q Membership Meeting Q and More!
14 NOVEMBER 2024 WorldWide Drilling Resource® Booth 819 Updated Gas and Oil Leasing Regulations Adapted from Information by the U.S. Department of the Interior and BLM The Department of the Interior announced a final rule to revise the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) gas and oil leasing regulations. By focusing gas and oil leasing in areas with existing infrastructure and high gas and oil potential, these regulations help protect critical wildlife habitat, cultural resources, and recreational values, while ensuring a fair return to taxpayers. The Fluid Mineral Leases and Leasing Process rule revises outdated fiscal terms of the onshore federal gas and oil leasing program, which includes bonding requirements, royalty rates, and minimum bids. The rule helps steer gas and oil development away from important wildlife habitats and cultural sites, by establishing BLM’s preference to offer land for lease that is close to existing infrastructure or has high potential for gas and oil production. The BLM will continue to meet America’s energy needs while leading the way, in sustainabilitity. “These are the most significant reforms to the federal oil and gas leasing program in decades, and they will cut wasteful speculation, increase returns for the public, and protect taxpayers from being saddled with the costs of environmental cleanups,” said Secretary Deb Haaland. This rule reinforces the BLM’s leadership role in energy development by: j Ensuring responsible leasing and diligent development to minimize conflicts with other resources while ensuring the BLM can continue to manage public lands for multiple uses. j Implementing key fiscal reforms, including updating royalty rates, rental rates, and minimum bids on BLM-managed public lands. j Modernizing bonding requirements for leasing, development, and production to ensure taxpayers do not bear the cost of orphaned wells on public lands. The previous lease bond amount was $10,000; the rule has increased the minimum lease bond amount to $150,000 and the minimum statewide bond to $500,000, and it eliminates nationwide and unit bonds. It will now provide an adequate incentive for companies to meet their reclamation obligations, and cover the potential costs to reclaim a well should this obligation not be met, so taxpayers will not be left at risk for the cost of cleanup. The bond amount will be adjusted for inflation every ten years. “Our public lands are owned by all Americans, and the BLM remains committed to managing them in a balanced, responsible way,” said BLM Director Tracy Stone-Manning. G&O
15 NOVEMBER 2024 WorldWide Drilling Resource® Booth 1025 Foundations by: Deep Foundations Institute’s Seismic and Lateral Loads Committee What’s Shaking December 4 ~ ONLINE phone: 973-423-4030 www.dfi-events.org/whats- shaking/dec-2024.html Grouting by: Deep Foundations Institute’s International Grouting Committee International Grouting December 10 ~ ONLINE phone: 973-423-4030 www.dfi-events.org/grouting/ dec-2024.html Horizontal Directional Drilling by: Oklahoma Energy Resources Board’s Sustaining Oklahoma’s Energy Resources Committee Directional Drilling December 4 ~ ONLINE phone: 405-601-2098 https://soer.oerb.com/workshops/ Irrigation by: Rain Bird Academy Training December 2-6 ~ Denver, CO December 2-6 ~ Columbus, OH December 9-13 ~ Las Vegas, NV December 16-20 ~ Lansing, MI December 16-20 ~ Long Island, NY phone: 800-498-1942 E-mail: training@rainbird.com Pipe by: American Society of Civil Engineers Design and Installation of Buried Pipes December 5-6 ~ Reston, VA December 5-6 ~ ONLINE phone: 703-295-6300 www.asce.org by: North American Society for Trenchless Technology Gas Distribution Good Practices Course December 12 ~ ONLINE phone: 888-388-2554 www.nastt.org/training/upcomingevents/ Education Connection More education opportunities during events can be found by clicking here online at: worldwidedrillingresource.com January Issue Deadlines! Space Reservation: November 25th Display & Classified Ad Copy: December 1st
16 NOVEMBER 2024 WorldWide Drilling Resource® www.starironworks.com 257 Caroline Street Punxsutawney, PA 15767 800-927-0560 • 814-427-2555 Fax: 814-427-5164 SERVING THE WATER WELL INDUSTRY Serving the Drilling Industry Booth 1003 Drilling Into Money Not Boring by Mark E. Battersby Tax Savings at the State and Local Levels Many within the drilling industry complain about their federal tax bills. However, more often the state and local tax burden of their businesses is far greater. What’s worse, many of those state and local tax laws change from year to year. Today, state income taxes can cost a drilling operation or business between 2.5% and 10% - or more - of its pretax income. This is not an insignificant amount, regardless of the state of the economy. Every drilling professional or business owner should also be aware of whether those deductions they’re planning to claim on their federal tax returns will receive the same treatment at the state level. While many states follow federal tax rules, some states decouple from certain tax provisions. Obviously, the possibility of nonconformity should always be a consideration. Federal, state, and even local laws dealing with employees also change from year to year, and all of those changes usually impact a drilling operation’s tax bill. While these laws may be designed to be beneficial for employees, businesses usually find it increasingly difficult to remain profitable. Many states have created programs to compensate businesses for expenses related to minimum wage law changes, worker incentive programs, such as paid family leave, and other laws dealing with employees. However, this is only a temporary solution and rarely addresses higher payroll costs and increased payroll tax bills. One state tax often overlooked and frequently overpaid is the tax assessed on the property and - in many places - the equipment and other business assets. Surprisingly, few drilling operations challenge their property tax bill. While the property tax rate can’t be questioned, the assessment of the business’s property, the value placed on it by the local assessor, can - and should - be challenged. State and local governments often incentivize businesses using tax breaks, grant programs, or business friendly policies. Is the drilling business taking advantage of all the tax credits and incentives they qualify for? State and local taxes are varied and in constant flux. However, those state and local taxes can significantly impact a drilling operation’s cash flow and profits. This means keeping abreast of the business’s state and local tax obligations. Keeping abreast, while complex, is worth the effort. Failing to keep abreast can significantly affect the operation’s cash flow and profits and, as always, professional guidance is recommended. Mark Mark E. Battersby may be contacted via e-mail to michele@worldwidedrillingresource.com
17 NOVEMBER 2024 WorldWide Drilling Resource® www.starironworks.com 257 Caroline Street Punxsutawney, PA 15767 800-927-0560 • 814-427-2555 Fax: 814-427-5164 SERVING THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY Serving the Drilling Industry Booth 1003 Drones for Blasting and Mining Operations Adapted from Information by Nelson Brothers With accurate geospatial data, mining operators can optimize the management of minerals excavation, quarry, pit, or aggregate operation. No tool collects this data as precisely, efficiently, and safely as a drone. With a single automated flight, a mining drone can collect timely, georeferenced imagery. This data can be used to make critical decisions. To understand this data and optimize mineral extraction through blasting, drones enable engineers to produce 3D models of preblast and postblast areas. These models can be used to calculate the volume of minerals extracted after blasting, monitoring muck pile movement, measuring cast profiles and swell factors, and evaluating fragmentation. Drones in mining can be used to help the blaster in charge clear the exclusion zone before blasting, while quickly sweeping the area, obtaining views otherwise not achievable from the ground. Additionally, these unmanned aerial vehicles can safely film blasts from locations inaccessible to conventional tripod-mounted cameras. Drones provide an edge by collecting unlimited aerial data, including fine measurements, through capturing high-resolution aerial photographs to help with surveying and mapping mineral landscapes. Mine workers can face hazards like rock falls, extreme humidity, gas leaks, dust explosions, and floods. Drones can mitigate risks with the ability to be deployed into underground mines to monitor and inspect deep shafts. Furthermore, they are suitable for mining equipment visual inspection. This is an otherwise expensive and time-consuming activity performed by highly trained quality assurance personnel. Mine conditions effect how long workers can spend underground which also has an impact on the quality of assessments. With drones, inspections aren't limited by conditions or time and can be incredibly thorough. Drones collect extensive amounts of aerial data, taking detailed images of vast areas quickly; engineers utilize this data to better plan, design, construct, and maintain these networks. With a team of experienced federal aviation administration licensed drone pilots, mine sites can quickly and efficiently meet aerial surveillance needs. EXB
18 NOVEMBER 2024 WorldWide Drilling Resource® Stunning Discovery on Mars Adapted from Information by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Scientists were stunned earlier this year when a rock driven over by NASA’s Curiosity Mars rover cracked open and revealed something never seen before on the Red Planet: yellow sulfur crystals. The rock Curiosity cracked open is made of elemental, or pure, sulfur. It isn’t clear what relationship, if any, the elemental sulfur has to other sulfur-based minerals in the area. While people associate sulfur with the odor from rotten eggs, elemental sulfur is odorless and forms in only a narrow range of conditions scientists haven’t associated with the history of this location. Curiosity found a lot of it - an entire field of bright rocks which look similar to the one the rover crushed. “Finding a field of stones made of pure sulfur is like finding an oasis in the desert,” said Curiosity’s project scientist, Ashwin Vasavada of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California. “It shouldn’t be there, so now we have to explain it. Discovering strange and unexpected things is what makes planetary exploration so exciting.” This is one of several discoveries Curiosity has made while off-roading within Gediz Vallis channel, a groove that winds down part of the three-mile-high Mount Sharp. Each layer of the mountain represents a different period of Martian history. Curiosity’s mission is to study where and when the planet’s ancient terrain could have provided the nutrients needed for microbial life, if any ever formed on Mars. Spotted from space years before Curiosity’s launch, Gediz Vallis channel is one of the primary reasons the science team wanted to visit this part of Mars. Scientists think the channel was carved by flows of liquid water and debris leaving a ridge of boulders and sediment. The goal has been to develop a better understanding of how this landscape changed billions of years ago, and while recent clues have helped, there’s still much to learn from the dramatic landscape. Since Curiosity’s arrival at the channel earlier this year, scientists have studied whether ancient floodwaters or landslides built up the large mounds of debris rising up from the channel’s floor here. The latest clues suggest both played a role: some piles were likely left by violent flows of water and debris, while others appear to be the result of more local landslides. Those conclusions are based on rocks found in the debris mounds. Stones carried by water flows become rounded like river rocks, some of the debris mounds are riddled with more angular rocks which may have been deposited by dry avalanches. All this evidence of water continues to tell a more complex story than the team’s early expectations, and they’ve been eager to take a rock sample from the channel to learn more. Earlier this year, they got their chance. While the sulfur rocks were too small and brittle to be sampled with the drill, a large rock nicknamed “Mammoth Lakes” was spotted nearby. Rover engineers had to search for a part of the rock that would allow safe drilling and find a parking spot on the loose, sloping surface. After Curiosity bored its 41st hole using the powerful drill at the end of the rover’s seven-foot robotic arm, the sixwheeled scientist trickled the powderized rock into instruments inside its belly for further analysis so scientists can determine what materials the rock is made of. Curiosity has since driven away from Mammoth Lakes and is now off to see what other surprises are waiting to be discovered within the channel. Editor’s Note: In between our print issues, the WWDR Team prepares an electronic newsletter called E-News Flash by WorldWide by WorldWide Drilling Resource®. This newsletter is filled with articles not included in our print issue. Based on readership, this was the most popular article of the month. Get in on the action and subscribe today at: worldwidedrillingresource.com EXB Curiosity Mars rover viewed yellow crystals of elemental sulfur. The discovery marks the first time this mineral has ever been found in a pure form on Mars. Booth 611
19 NOVEMBER 2024 WorldWide Drilling Resource® Machine Learning Can Improve TBM Wear Adapted from Information by National Institutes of Health A tunnel boring machine (TBM) is a piece of equipment uniting mechanical, electronic, hydraulic, and laser technologies for large-scale, industrialized tunnel excavation, with advantages such as a relatively steady excavation speed, shorter construction periods, a minimized ecological impact, and high efficiency. However, during construction, the harsh working environment inside the tunnel and the inherent complexity of the cutting tool system at the machine’s forefront contribute to a higher incidence of tooling system failures. During construction, the hydraulic propulsion system generates thrust, which is transmitted through the cutter plate to penetrate the rock and break it. In the process of rotary rock breaking, the wear type and degree of the disk cutter are influenced by various factors, resulting in varying levels of change. Based on the characteristics of the wear pattern, it can be classified into two types, which are normal and abnormal wear. Normal wear arises from rolling friction between the cutter ring and palm surface. Over time, the cutter ring’s diameter diminishes, while the width of the cutter edge steadily increases, and when the cutter edge width surpasses the rated value, it is considered standard for disk cutter wear failure. Abnormal wear of the disk cutter is caused by many factors, resulting in different types of wear, such as biased grinding, chipping, displacement, or the dislodgement of the cutter rings, as well as bearing damage. The probability of failure due to abnormal wear is extremely low compared to normal wear. In tunnel boring projects, wear and tear in the tooling system can have significant consequences, such as decreased boring efficiency, heightened maintenance costs, and potential safety hazards. The faults caused by disk cutter wear during the boring process can diminish boring efficiency and is challenging to detect during construction. Monitoring and addressing tool wear during construction poses certain difficulties, since exclusion of failure areas caused by disk cutter wear heavily relies on manual inspections during shutdowns, requiring downtime for handling and resulting in lower efficiency. A complete three-dimensional model of the TBM hydraulic thrust and tooling system was created to help understand how the load on the propulsion hydraulic cylinder changes as the TBM tunnelling tool wears to different degrees during construction. This enabled an in-depth exploration of the correlation between these acquired signals and the extent of the tooling system failure. The model effectively identified the failure regions, enabling timely tool replacement to avoid decreased boring efficiency under wear conditions. Machine learning introduces advanced capabilities in data analysis and prediction into TBM tool wear research and provides robust technical support to enhance TBM performance, reduce maintenance costs, and improve engineering efficiency. With the rapid development of information technology and the popularization and application of data, machine learning, as a powerful tool for data analysis and recognition, has achieved remarkable results in various fields. Machine learning algorithms can analyze large amounts of data intelligently, providing new insights for the operation and maintenance of TBMs, which improves the efficiency and quality of tunneling projects. CONST PALMER BIT COMPANY THE QUALITY GOES IN BEFORE THE RED GOES ON SIMPLY SAID - CALL FOR THE RED 800-421-2487 701-572-5271 SALES@PALMERBIT.COM WWW.PALMERBIT.COM
20 NOVEMBER 2024 WorldWide Drilling Resource® The “Idiots” Corner by “Billy Bob Smith” Curses, cults, and spells - believe or not? I thought I would cover the following as either a humorous or serious topic which may or may not deal with thousands of idiots over the years. You decide. Are you an idiot if you believe any or all of the following? Ever had someone put a spell or curse on you - ex-spouse, friend, or neighbor? Don’t believe in these crazy ideas except during Halloween? Ever wanted to put a curse or spell on someone else - boss, customer, or total stranger? Don’t want to even finish reading this brief article since you have better things to do other than read a bunch of hocus pocus stuff about people you don’t know or care about? I get it - let’s be serious. But, with this article series, I have to cover crazy stuff because idiots are all around us. Have you ever watched the History Channel about aliens or various spells, cults, or anything else that is sort of “out of this world?” Well, I have to admit I am addicted to the alien shows because I find it hard to believe some of it isn’t true. Okay, okay, I am one of those idiots I write about each month! Maybe you should learn a little more about it too and you might become a believer, but I digress. A spell - or incantation - is believed to draw power from spiritual agencies to accomplish magic. Knowledge of spells or symbolic numbers is often secret (occult), and the possessor of such knowledge can be either greatly revered or feared. In some cases, the spell is the most highly regarded component of the magical rite or ceremony. There’s no evidence that curses are real, at least not in the sense that somebody can stare at you the wrong way to impose bad “evil eye” energy on you. But it doesn’t mean the emotional impact of believing you’re cursed isn't intense. Beyond that, every religion has a unique understanding of what a curse looks like. A cult is an organized group whose purpose is to dominate members through psychological manipulation and pressure strategies. Cults are usually headed by a powerful leader who isolates members from the rest of society. Some individuals who join cults remain lifelong members. Examples of cults: j Heaven’s Gate was a group that started in the 1970s. It was known as a “UFO religious” cult. The tight-knit group required members to give up almost all of their possessions. j David Koresh thought he could have conversations with God, and he convinced his followers the world was ending. He and more than 100 people moved to a compound outside of Waco, Texas. j Folks such as Benito Mussolini of Italy and Vladimir Putin of Russia, are often associated with cults of personality, as are totalitarian regimes such as the Soviet Union under Joseph Stalin, Germany under Adolf Hitler, and North Korea under Kim Jong-Un. j No single group in history, cult or not, has the notoriety and infamy of the Illuminati. Many believe its members are compelling people who are behind every life situation, both good, bad, and ugly. Two famous curses: James Dean's cursed Porsche 550 Spyder still lives on to this day, but its actual whereabouts are another baffling yet intriguing story. James Dean was as promising a racer as he was an actor. In fact, Dean participated in three races. Of course, it was also the last car Dean ever purchased and drove. Dubbed “Little Bastard,” Dean's Porsche apparently emanated such an ominous presence that fellow actor Sir Alec Guinness even warned him he would die the following week if he drove it, as seen in a YouTube video by Discovery UK. Arguably the most famous pop culture curse of them all, the Kennedy Curse is alleged to have plagued the famous American family for decades. Since the 1940s, a wildly disproportionate number of Kennedys have been killed or died prematurely and the Kennedy family tragedies have led some to believe there must be a curse on the whole bunch. The curse began in 1944, when John F. Kennedy’s brother, Joseph Jr., died in a plane crash while fighting in the second World War. Their sister Kathleen was killed in a plane crash four years later and on . . . Throughout history, humanity has been captivated by the idea of harnessing mystical energies to achieve extraordinary feats. From ancient civilizations to modern times, the concept of casting spells has been an integral part of various cultures and belief systems. While often portrayed in fictional stories, the fascination with spells remains very real. j Banishing spells are a form of magical practice used to remove or eliminate negative energies, influences, entities, or situations from your life or environment. j Money and prosperity spells are a type of magical practice aiming to attract abundance, financial success, and overall prosperity into your life. These spells can help shift your energy, mindset, and circumstances to open up opportunities for financial growth. j Healing spells are a form of magical practice which focuses on promoting physical, emotional, or spiritual healing. These spells are often used to aid in recovery from illness, alleviate emotional distress, and restore overall well-being. It’s important to note while healing spells can complement medical and psychological treatments, they should not replace professional healthcare. j Candle magic is a form of magical practice which involves using candles to focus intention, energy, and magic toward a specific goal or desire. It’s a popular and accessible form of magic which allows practitioners to harness the power of fire and the symbolism of colors to manifest their desires. So, I will leave you with a couple of quick questions. Do you believe in any spells, curses, or cults? Why or why not? What was your reaction to any of the above? Did it stimulate you to learn more, or put it in the trash? Billy Bob Contact him via e-mail to michele@worldwidedrillingresource.com
21 NOVEMBER 2024 WorldWide Drilling Resource® Does your rig need help? We can take care of your new or not so new rig. Remounts • Rebuilds • Overhauls Our distributors are: Drilling Supply & Mfg. 7301 Hwy 183 South Austin TX 78744 Tel: (512) 243-1986 Fax: (512) 243-1091 Check out our website for a list of units for sale. www.dsm-mayhew.com
22 NOVEMBER 2024 WorldWide Drilling Resource® Providing Water for All Adapted from Information by Epiroc Water for All's projects include drilling and digging wells, providing rain harvesting facilities, repairing existing water systems, protecting natural resources, as well as educating people in sanitation and hygiene. A significant share of the focus is on supporting schools. The work is carried out by partnering nongovernmental organizations with expertise in water, sanitation, and hygiene along with staff in the countries with projects. The result is a strong positive effect, with a direct impact especially for many women and girls, including: j Giving girls, who previously had to spend most of their days fetching water (often dirty) from far away, the freedom to go to school. j Freeing up time for women to work or start businesses. j Helping them feel safer by building latrines which offer privacy. More than 2000 Epiroc colleagues around the world are currently contributing monthly. The employee donations are matched with twice the amount by the Epiroc Group. Virtually 100% of the donations go directly into water projects. Recent projects, among many, include constructing rainwater cisterns for indigenous people in rural Mexico; providing sustainable access to water for at least 15 years for 48 villages in northern Uganda; providing safe drinking water and basic sanitation for 5000 people in rural Nepal; as well as helping flooded areas of Ukraine after the destruction of the Kakhovka dam. Epiroc runs the program together with Atlas Copco Group, which is initiated and driven on a local level around the world by their employees. “The need for clean water and sanitation keeps growing, making Water for All more important than ever,” said Helena Hedblom, Epiroc’s president and CEO. “We are very proud of Water for All's accomplishments and of all passionate colleagues who, supported by the company, are making this possible.” WTR Have some interesting news? Send it our way. bonnie@ worldwidedrillingresource.com
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDk4Mzk=