Instruments and Methods: A Simple Thermal Ice Drill

• Published in: Journal of Glaciology
• Main Author: LaChapelle, E.
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Cambridge University Press (CUP) 1963
• Subjects: Earth-Surface Processes; Journal of Glaciology
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s002214300002815x; https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/S002214300002815X

Abstract A thermal ice drill using a silicon carbide electrical resistance element has been developed. The silicon carbide element is operated bare in water, permitting a very simple and efficient drill design. Maximum operating power density in these elements is limited to 400 W./cm. 3 by the tendency of wet silicon carbide to deteriorate rapidly at high current levels. The elements are readily replaceable and have a drilling life of 40 to 70 m. of hole. Normal drilling rates in ice of 5 to 6 m./hr. can be consistently maintained with 220 W. power input to the drill.