GeoMEM Solutions: Core Orientation

Core orientation is a method of measuring the orientation of the length of rock that is cored when drilling.

Usually this is a device or instrument that is fitted above the core barrel (some may fit within it) and records its own rotational angle (relative to vertical) when the core is broken off. When the rock core is recovered the recorded angle together with borehole survey information provides an accurate orientation of the core in 3D space. This in turn allows the correct location in 3D of any and all linear features in the rock and so to modelling of the rock structures, lithological features and/or mineral deposit.

Core orientation devices are amongst the earliest of instruments that were developed for borehole use – having been recorded from the 1840’s (170 years ago).

GeoMEM supply the DEVICO DeviCore system. This is available for both sale and rental and fits in core barrels or rods with inner diameters from 37mm upwards. Further details on our DEVICO DeviCore page.

See also: Borehole surveying, Directional drilling