MiniMole

Powerful for Deep Drilling
Auger/Split Spoon for SPTs
Low Emission Option
Narrow
Versatile

MiniMole

Powerful for Deep Drilling
Auger/Split Spoon for SPTs
Low Emission Option
Narrow
Versatile

MiniMole

The workhorses of the Kodiak drill fleet are the MiniMoles; custom built by a specialty shop for our limited access requirements. These drills are tremendously popular for their versatility, combined with the power to get to greater depths than many other small drills.

The drills operate on the same system as a traditional geotechnical/environmental truck mounted drill; a 140 lb hammer drives a 2″ split spoon sampler, while augers are used to drill the hole.

The original MiniMole (M2) we introduced in 2005 is still in use, a testament to the exceptional quality of this machine. Our newer (2018) drill (M3) utilized the same design drawings with some upgrades, including a more powerful engine that meets the very strict California Tier 4 Final exhaust standards (making it ideal for indoor locations), an auto-hammer (no cathead/rope), and an invisible electronic safety curtain around the drilling area.

For the newest (2021) MiniMole (M4), we went back to the drawing board for a new design encompassing many of the same features, but in a slightly larger footprint to facilitate a lower centre of gravity, a larger engine, and even more powerful auger head. The re-designed mast allows for more height configurations, for extra low clearance situations

These units travel on a rubber track (crawler) system maneuvered by an optional remote control operated by the driller. The M2 and M3 have a slide base with telescoping tracks, allowing them to reduce their width to only 36 inches for narrow areas, while expanding to 51 inches for maximum stability on slopes and rough terrain. The newer, larger M4, has a fixed width of 48 inches.

When loaded with tooling, these drills are approximately 7000 lbs. They employ four independent hydraulic stabilizers for uneven ground and a 4000 lb hydraulic winch for rod and auger lifting. The MiniMoles have substantially more auger head power than the Big Beaver and MiniProbe, with a drill head torque of 2200-4000 foot lbs; approaching the power of a CME45.

These units are most often used at both indoor and outdoor locations, where boreholes are to be drilled to depths of 15 to 50 feet or more.

Principal Advantages

Size: When travelling, the machines require 6.5ft head clearance (M2) and 7.5ft when using the newer (M3 & M4) machines.

When drilling, they require an area of approximately 7′ by 15′, with 12.5′ clearance minimum.

The full height towers (15′) allow for better production rates with deeper holes.

Power: 2200-4000 foot lbs drill head torque, with unit weights of 4200-6200 lbs (5600-7400 lbs when fully loaded with tooling). Standard 140 lb hammer, blow counts suitable for SPTs.

Emissions: On-board are 33-56 hp diesel engines, with capabilities of drilling inside. The newest machines utilize a very clean Tier 4 (Final) standard engine.

Monitoring Wells: Using solid and hollow stem (2.75in or 4.25in) augers the boreholes are suitable for 1″ or 2″ diameter monitoring wells. Oversize wells can also be installed using larger diameter augers.

Other Factors

Access: Drill is self propelled, moving on rubber tracks – allowing it to access sloped and rough terrain areas. Telescoping tracks on the M2 and M3 allow width to be varied from 35 inches to 51 inches; excellent for travelling and drilling in very narrow areas.

Augers: Most commonly uses 4in solid stem augers and 2.75in hollow stem augers, but can also be equipped with 4.25in hollow stem augers if necessary; all of which are suitable for 1in or 2in well installations. Different sizes of augers may be available upon request.

Concrete & Asphalt: Asphalt and low quality concrete can be penetrated with this drill. For interior drilling, we predrill the floor with the diamond bit coring machine.