Atacama Dessert exploration deal is for mine operated by BHP Billiton
Minera Escondida, a copper mine located in the Atacama Desert about 105 miles southeast of Antofagasta, Chile, has awarded Boart Longyear a contract for exploration drilling services.
The mine, which is operated by BHP Billiton and owned by BHP Billiton, Rio Tinto, JECO Corp. and JECO 2 Ltd., will be employing Boart Longyear to provide a variety of drilling techniques using at least 16 rigs, including diamond coring (semi-automated hands-free), reverse circulation and rotary rigs for mine dewatering.