Experimental research on the thermal method of drilling by melting the well in ice mass with simultaneous controlled expansion of its diameter

During the seasonal work of 64th Russian Antarctic Expedition in 2018-2019 at “Vostok” drilling facility named after B.B.Kudryashov (“Vostok” station, Antarctic) specialists Saint Petersburg Mining University conducted experimental investigations on process by melting with simultaneous expansion wells ice mass. A test bench and a full-scale model thermohydraulic reamer-drilling tool were developed, manufactured tested for research. The first tests proved its efficiency suitability mass; operational capabilities determined drawbacks that will be taken into account future found out. article substantiates choice constructive elements tool. It is technology full diameter well mass can implemented combining contact convective creation forced near-bottomhole annular circulation heated heat carrier. Dependencies rate main technological parameters determined: active power heating penetrator system, mechanical rate, pump flow rate. According to results investigations, designed testing conditions 5G.