Extreme Terrain
MOBILE DRILLING
RIG FLEET
Conquering the rugged Atacama Desert with custom-engineered crawler rigs designed for high-altitude performance and steep gradients.
Project Data
Client Location
Atacama, Chile
Equipment
Hydraulic Crawler Rigs
Terrain Spec
Climbing Ability
30° Gradient
The Challenge
Exploration in the Andes Mountains involves navigating narrow, steep mining roads at altitudes over 3,000 meters. Standard drilling rigs often fail due to engine overheating in the thin air or lack the torque to climb loose, rocky slopes.
The client needed a fleet that was "Mountain Ready" straight out of the box, without needing expensive local modifications.
The Solution
We worked with a specialist manufacturer to modify their standard export model specifically for the Chilean terrain.
- High-Altitude Engine Pack: Upgraded the turbo-charging system and cooling capacity to ensure full power output in oxygen-thin environments.
- Crawler Reinforcement: Installed wider, heavy-duty steel tracks with aggressive grouser plates for maximum traction on loose rock.
- Dust Protection: Added triple-stage air filtration systems to protect the hydraulics from the fine, abrasive desert dust.
Detail: High-torque rotation head for hard rock drilling.
The Result
The rigs have been operating for 6 months with Zero Major Breakdowns. The improved mobility allows the exploration team to access sites that were previously considered unreachable, significantly expanding their survey area.