Innovative rigs lead the way in low-impact drilling

When it comes to exploration drilling, minimising environmental impact is a critical consideration for Alcoa. The challenge of navigating forest landscapes with the lightest possible footprint is a key focus for our partnership with long-term drilling contractor JSW Drilling.

Rather than following traditional drilling methods that require significant ground clearing, JSW took inspiration from specialist Slovakian equipment typically used in sensitive European forests.

The result is a custom-built rig that’s agile, lightweight and forest-friendly, designed specifically for Alcoa’s exploration work in the Northern Jarrah Forest.

“These machines are engineered to move easily through the forest without disrupting the natural environment,” said JSW Executive General Manager Steve Payne.

“They weave between trees, step over fallen logs and barely leave a trace.”

The rigs are assembled in Western Australia using imported cab chassis platforms, then fitted with custom-built drill stations and safety features that meet both Australian forestry standards and Alcoa’s strict environmental requirements.

Key to their performance is an ability to both oscillate and articulate meaning they can turn tightly in dense vegetation while maintaining stability. Large tyres and high clearance allow the rigs to gently press down undergrowth, which often springs back once the equipment moves on.

It’s not uncommon to look back and be unable to tell where the machine has been.

Smart rigs are only part of the picture. Drill plans are guided by environmental surveys to identify and protect important features like stream zones and fauna habitats. If a site can’t be accessed without impact, it’s skipped.

Buffer zones are placed around any such areas and drill plans are updated to ensure the protected areas are avoided.

Combined with specialist training for drill teams to recognise and avoid key environmental features, this approach is helping us leave virtually no trace as it explores new terrain.

Check out the drill rig in action here.