oa Estimating Rock Strength From Non-Destructive Strength Testing (EQUOTIP) and Related Benefits

The results indicate that a strong correlation exists between Equotip Leeb hardness and UCS derived from scratch-test data for different lithologies. Tests on full cores also fit into the correlation. Larger variations in data range were encountered in coarse-grained sandstones, sandstones characterized by high amounts of clay minerals and fines as well as in lithologies that exhibit high rock strengths. Further in-house research is planned to find individual correlations or other testing devices for those lithologies. The results show that the Equotip can be used for estimating UCS from lithologies where representative plugging is not possible. The method is fast and equipment costs and logistics are low. Scratch tests derived UCS can be used for calibration. Estimating UCS from hardness testing cannot replace triaxial, hollow cylinder or scratch tests but can complement those tests, especially if data is needed urgently or other testing is not possible.