What is rotary core drilling?

Rotary core drilling is a method used in mineral exploration and geotechnical investigations to obtain cylindrical rock samples, known as cores, from the subsurface. This technique involves rotating a drill bit, which cuts through the rock while simultaneously injecting water or drilling mud to cool the bit and remove cuttings. The cores are extracted intact, allowing for detailed analysis of the geological formations and material properties. This method is particularly effective for accessing hard rock formations and provides valuable information for resource assessment and project planning.