Our technology bores vertically, reducing the risk of accidents, overbreak and exposure to hazards.
MDA specialises in a diverse range of services for the mining industry. Our core values of Respect, Accountability, Innovation, Safety and Efficiency (RAISE) drive our operations. We provide cutting edge technology in raise bore drilling, optimising vertical development solutions. Our mechanical structural engineering services ensure the durability of mining infrastructure. We mitigate geological risks with geo-technical engineering, enhancing stability and reducing disruptions. Our consulting services provide comprehensive guidance, from feasibility to production, for increased efficiency and maximum project potential. MDA is your trusted partner in delivering safe, sustainable and tailored solutions for all your mining needs.
MDA specialises in raise bore drilling, a technique that has transformed underground access in the industry. We utilise advanced rigs capable of communicating real-time data. This cutting-edge technology underscores our commitment to operational efficiency, safety and innovation, ensuring we stay at the forefront of mining technology.
Our mechanical structural engineering services involve meticulous design, analysis and validation of components, enhancing durability, safety and compliance across various applications, ensuring material integrity and optimal structural performance.
MDA’s consulting services offer comprehensive guidance in mining projects from feasibility to production. We specialise in drilling techniques, equipment selection, safety, project management and environmental impact, driving efficiency and maximising your project’s potential.
Our geotechnical engineering services manage weathered zones in construction, offering analysis, foundation design and stability assessments to ensure safe, durable structures, suited to unique subsurface challenges in infrastructure projects.
At MDA, our status as industry-leading experts in raise boring, a specialised drilling technique predominantly employed in mining and civil engineering, is well-established. This method efficiently creates vertical or inclined holes, known as raises, in the earth’s crust, setting us apart from conventional drilling methods. Our approach utilises advanced mechanised mining techniques, eliminating the need for explosives and significantly reducing the presence of workers in hazardous shaft environments.
Central to this process is the use of a raise boring machine, a robust and specially designed drilling rig. This innovative machinery operates by first drilling a pilot hole to the desired depth. Once the pilot hole is established, the machine then employs a reaming head to enlarge this hole to a much larger diameter, effectively creating the raise. This technique not only enhances safety but also ensures greater precision and efficiency in our drilling operations, contributing to our reputation as pioneers in the field.
Initially, a smaller diameter pilot hole is drilled from the upper level to the lower level where the raise is required. This pilot hole is typically guided by a pilot drill bit.
Once the pilot hole is established, a larger diameter reaming head is attached to the raise bore machine. This reaming head enlarges the hole to the desired diameter while simultaneously creating the required raise.
The cuttings produced during the piloting process are removed from the hole using reverse circulation. Throughout the reaming process the cuttings fall to the bottom of the raise and are removed by a tele-remote loader.
We offer a fleet of specialised drill rigs capable of supplying drilling services across the exploration drilling spectrum.
A large size raise drill, ranging from 3.1m to 6.1m in diameter, to 1100m depth.
A large size raise drill, ranging from 3.1m to 7.1m in diameter, to 850m depth.
A large size raise drill, ranging from 2.4m to 5.1m in diameter, to 1000m depth.
A medium size raise drill, ranging from 1.5m to 3.5m in diameter, to 550m depth.
