High-altitude regions present unique challenges for small rotary drilling rigs. The higher altitude and thinner air can affect engine power, steering, and braking, necessitating specific maintenance and technical adjustments. Here’s a look at common issues and solutions for operating rotary drilling rigs in mountainous areas.
Common Issues in High-Altitude Operations
1. Difficult Starts
- Battery Performance: Batteries perform best at 20°C to 40°C. Lower temperatures reduce battery capacity, making starts harder.
- Thin Air: Reduced air pressure lowers compression end pressure and temperature, delaying ignition.
- Viscous Lubricants: Cold temperatures increase oil viscosity, adding friction and reducing start speeds.
- Thicker Diesel: Diesel becomes more viscous and less effective at atomization in cold conditions, delaying ignition.
2. Engine Overheating (“Boiling”)
At high altitudes, water boils at lower temperatures. For instance, at 4500 meters, water boils at 87°C, close to normal engine operating temperatures, causing overheating.
3. Power Loss and Increased Fuel Consumption
Reduced air pressure and oxygen levels decrease engine power and efficiency. At 1000 meters elevation, engine power drops by 8%-13%, and fuel consumption increases by 6%-9%.
4. Material and Component Degradation
Low temperatures and UV radiation accelerate wear on materials and components, affecting rubber seals, metal parts, and sensor accuracy.
Maintenance and Operational Solutions
1. Verify Engine Specifications
Ensure engine parameters are suitable for high-altitude conditions.
2. Frequent Battery Replacement
High-altitude conditions shorten battery life; replace batteries more frequently.
3. Use Turbocharged Diesel Engines
Turbocharged engines perform better in thin air. For non-turbo engines, reduce fuel supply and adjust fuel injection timing at altitudes above 2500 meters.
4. Clean Radiators Regularly
Regularly clean radiators and intercoolers to lower intake air temperature and increase density, improving engine power and thermal performance.
5. Shorten Cleaning Intervals
Reduce intervals for cleaning combustion chambers, pistons, and valves to prevent carbon buildup.
6. Maintain the Air Intake System
Ensure the air intake system is unobstructed to prevent power loss.
7. Seal Cooling Systems
Enhance cooling water sealing to prevent evaporation and shorten cleaning cycles to remove scale buildup.
8. Follow Proper Operating Procedures
Preheat the engine at low speeds for 3-5 minutes before load operations. Before the shutdown, reduce the load gradually and let the engine idle to cool down. Avoid prolonged idling to prevent increased fuel consumption and component wear.
9. Enhance Brake and Steering Maintenance
Focus on air brake systems and use mineral oil brake fluid to prevent rapid evaporation.
10. Adjust Main Pump Power
Lower the main pump power to prevent engine stalling due to power loss at high altitudes.
Conclusion
Proper maintenance and adjustments are crucial for small rotary drilling rigs operating in high-altitude regions. Follow these guidelines to ensure reliable performance and extend equipment lifespan, keeping your operations smooth and efficient.
For more details on specific adjustments and maintenance practices, consult another article or contact a qualified technician.
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