Mining operations depend on accuracy, consistency, and efficient drilling performance. When blast holes begin collapsing, the result is often costly delays, redrilling, and inaccurate borehole depths. In this case, Marathon Industries supported a tier 1 copper operation overseas by helping identify, supply, install, and commission a drilling fluid solution designed to stabilize blast holes and improve drilling efficiency.
The Business Need
The site required a drilling fluid that could stabilize blast holes and help eliminate collapsed well holes. The goal was to streamline the drilling process by reducing the need for redrilling and minimizing borehole depth inaccuracies.
The Technical Challenge
Selecting the right drilling fluid required careful review of several site-specific factors, including operating practices, rock types, and drill particle size. Marathon also needed to benchmark available products on the market before making a recommendation.
The Solution
Marathon began by evaluating the available drilling fluid options based on cost, environmental impact, and established usage data. From that review, the team selected the most appropriate drilling fluid for the application and procured the product from a Canadian manufacturer.
From there, Marathon worked through the logistical and importation challenges involved in delivering the solution overseas. Once the product reached site, the team supported the installation and commissioning of the drilling fluid injector system.
Integration and Training
Following the technical assessment and import process, Marathon completed on-site equipment installation support and maintenance training for operators. The team also responded to operational support requests without requiring international travel, despite language and cultural barriers.
To make that possible, Marathon provided equipment-specific training videos and troubleshooting correspondence. The team also helped the customer optimize product usage so the site could achieve the best possible blast hole stabilization results.
Commissioning and Ongoing Support
Marathon commissioned the fluid delivery system before turning it over to mine operations, providing an additional layer of quality control and helping ensure a smooth transition into daily use.
After commissioning, Marathon remained in regular contact with mine site staff to help fine-tune the injector system as drilling crews encountered new rock types and site conditions. According to the case study, hole stabilization was successfully addressed throughout this process.
Conclusion
This project shows how Marathon Industries supports mining operations beyond product supply alone. By helping identify the right drilling fluid, managing procurement and import logistics, assisting with installation and commissioning, and providing ongoing remote operational support, Marathon helped the site improve blast hole stability and strengthen day-to-day drilling performance.