Investigating the Effects of Mechanical Properties of Rocks on Specific Energy and Penetration Rate of Borehole Drilling

Abstract

This paper deals with the analysis of effects of mechanical properties of rock on penetration rate and specific energy. Five specimens were collected from the four locations in Federal capital territory, Abuja. These samples were subjected to laboratory point load strength index using point load testing machine. Results of the point load tests were used to estimate the uniaxial compressive strength of the rocks. The penetration rate and specific energy were determined using empirical equations. The results from the investigation showed that the rate of penetration decreases with increase in rock strength and the specific energy increases with increase in rock strength. Based on the investigation, a number of linear relationships that described the effects of mechanical properties on penetration rate in the drilling process were obtained with strong correlation coefficients.