AQ, BQ, NQ, HQ, and PQ are internationally recognized wireline drilling sizes. Choosing the correct core drill rod size is essential for drilling efficiency, core recovery, and equipment compatibility.
Wireline diamond drilling is widely used in mineral exploration because it provides high-quality rock cores for geological analysis. The drill rod size is one of the most important factors affecting drilling performance.
The most common wireline drill rod systems include:
Each size has different outside diameter, inside diameter, core diameter, drilling depth capability, and application range.
AQ Wireline Drill Rod
AQ is one of the smaller wireline sizes.
Typical applications:
- Shallow exploration
- Geological investigation
- Compact drilling systems
Advantages:
- Lightweight
- Easy handling
- Suitable for limited-access sites
BQ Wireline Drill Rod
BQ is commonly used for general exploration drilling.
Applications:
- Mineral exploration
- Engineering investigation
- Medium-depth drilling
Advantages:
- Balanced drilling performance
- Good core recovery
- Wide availability
NQ Wireline Drill Rod
NQ is one of the most widely used exploration drilling sizes worldwide.
Applications:
- Gold exploration
- Copper exploration
- Lithium projects
- Geological drilling
Advantages:
- Good balance between core size and drilling efficiency
- Suitable for deep exploration
- Excellent equipment compatibility
HQ Wireline Drill Rod
HQ provides a larger core diameter and stronger drilling performance.
Applications:
- Deep mineral exploration
- Geotechnical investigation
- Resource evaluation
Advantages:
- Larger core samples
- Better geological information
- Higher drilling stability
PQ Wireline Drill Rod
PQ is designed for large-diameter core drilling.
Applications:
- Deep exploration
- Complex geological formations
- Detailed geological studies
Advantages:
- Large core diameter
- Excellent sample quality
- Suitable for demanding projects
How to Select the Right Size?
Selection depends on:
Target Depth
Deep drilling generally requires stronger drill rods with excellent fatigue resistance.
Core Sample Requirements
Larger cores provide more geological information but require more drilling power.
Rock Formation
Hard and abrasive formations require high-quality drill rods and optimized drilling parameters.
Drilling Equipment
The rod must match:
- Core barrel
- Drill rig
- Diamond bit
- Thread connection
YKDRILL Wireline Drill Rod Range
YKDRILL supplies:
with:
- Precision threads
- High-strength steel
- Strict quality control
- Customized production