Causes And Preventive Measures of Rotary Drilling Rig Overturning

Rotary drilling rigs, as heavy machinery, endure significant loads and complex working environments during construction. In certain cases, these rigs may overturn, which not only causes equipment damage but also poses a serious safety risk to operators. Therefore, understanding the causes of rotary drilling rig overturning and taking effective preventive measures is crucial.

Causes of Rotary Drilling Rig Overturning

1. Unstable Ground and Working Environment
   Rotary drilling rigs are particularly prone to overturning when working on soft soil or uneven ground. The instability of the ground reduces the rig's support capacity, making it prone to tipping. This risk is particularly high when the drilling rig has a long drill rod and the center of gravity is displaced during operation, making the machine more vulnerable to tipping.

2. Overloading
   Overloading is one of the primary causes of rig overturning. Lifting excessively heavy objects or drilling too deep can reduce the rig's stability, increasing the likelihood of tipping. When the rig operates beyond its load capacity, the center of gravity shifts, further destabilizing the rig and leading to a higher risk of overturning.

3. Improper Operation
   Incorrect operation by the operator can also lead to overturning. For example, rapidly rotating the drill tools, abruptly changing the rig's posture, or frequently starting and stopping the machine can all disrupt the rig's stability, increasing the chances of tipping. In particular, when adjusting the rig's position or turning, ignoring load changes and the rig's balance can lead to instability.

4. Hydraulic System Failure
   The hydraulic system of a rotary drilling rig is responsible for controlling the stability and lifting capacity of the machine. When the hydraulic system malfunctions, it can cause insufficient or uneven support, compromising the rig's stability and leading to overturning. Issues such as hydraulic oil leakage, low pressure, or damaged hydraulic components can cause the rig to operate abnormally and increase the risk of tipping.

5. External Factors such as Wind
   In harsh weather conditions, such as high winds, the stability of the rig can also be affected by external factors. In outdoor operations, strong winds can exert lateral forces on the rig, causing it to lose balance and overturn.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Overturning of Rotary Drilling Rigs

1. Choose Stable Ground for Operation
   Before starting construction, ensure that the ground selected for operation is firm and level. If the ground is soft or uneven, reinforcing measures should be taken, such as laying steel plates or concrete pads to improve the load-bearing capacity of the ground, ensuring the stability of the equipment.

2. Operate Within Load Limits
   During operation, it is essential for operators to strictly adhere to the load limits of the rotary drilling rig and avoid overloading. Drilling depth and weight lifting should be adjusted according to the rig's capacity and the working environment. Ensuring that the rig operates within its safe load range will prevent instability and overturning.

3. Proper Operation to Avoid Sudden Movements
   Operators should follow operational guidelines and avoid sudden movements, such as rapidly changing direction, quickly starting or stopping the machine, and making abrupt adjustments to the rig's position. When repositioning the rig, operators should do so gradually, ensuring that the load and balance are maintained to prevent tipping.

4. Regular Inspection of the Hydraulic System
   The hydraulic system should be inspected regularly to ensure its proper functioning. Damaged hydraulic components should be replaced, and hydraulic oil should be checked for cleanliness and adequate pressure. Proper functioning of the hydraulic system is key to maintaining the rig's stability, so routine checks and maintenance are essential to prevent hydraulic system failures that could lead to tipping.

5. Take Precautions Against Adverse Weather Conditions
   During extreme weather conditions, such as strong winds or heavy rain, operations should be halted or postponed. Operators should monitor weather forecasts and assess whether the weather conditions are suitable for continued operation. In case of strong winds, wind protection measures should be implemented to stabilize the rig and avoid working in hazardous weather conditions.

6. Use Support Devices and Stabilizing Measures
   Depending on the working conditions, rotary drilling rigs should be equipped with appropriate support devices, such as legs or pads, to improve stability. Before starting operations, operators should ensure that all support devices are correctly positioned and that they will not shift due to uneven ground or excessive load.

7. Operator Training
   Proper operator training is critical to preventing overturning accidents. Through systematic training, operators can learn the correct operational techniques and safety protocols, improving their ability to recognize and respond to potential risks, thereby reducing the likelihood of overturning caused by human error.

Conclusion

Overturning of rotary drilling rigs is a serious accident that can occur due to a variety of factors, including ground conditions, improper operation, overloading, hydraulic system failure, and external influences such as weather. By taking effective preventive measures such as selecting stable ground, operating within load limits, following proper procedures, regularly inspecting equipment, and responding to weather conditions, the risk of overturning can be significantly reduced. Operator vigilance and professionalism play a crucial role in preventing tipping incidents, and therefore, enhanced training and regular safety checks are essential for ensuring the safe operation of rotary drilling rigs.