Patent ID: 6637522
Filing Date: 2003-10-28
Classification: B23Q,E21B,G05B

Abstract:
An apparatus for substantially continuously forming a drill hole in the earth using a drill stem having a bit while flushing of the cuttings and dust from the drill hole, comprising:a feed device for feeding the drill stem and bit at a feed rate to form the drill hole; a flushing mechanism for flushing the cuttings and dust from the hole adjacent the stem by bailing fluid flow; a transducer monitoring a pressure of the bailing fluid flow and generating a signal indicative of the level of said pressure; a drive unit for establishing a rate of driving for the drill stem and bit; and a controller responsive to the signal from said transducer indicative of said pressure for regulating the rate of driving and the feed rate; whereby said cuttings and dust are flushed in a controlled manner to substantially eliminate airborne contamination and provide the substantially continuous and optimum drilling operation.