OasisLMS

Abstract: The emergence of measuring while drilling (MWD) as a quantitative tool for geotechnical site characterization highlights the need to understand and optimize drilling efficiency. This paper presents a comprehensive framework that classifies drilling parameters by origin and influence, identifies mechanical inefficiencies across distinct drilling phases, and leverages vibrational metrics and mechanical specific energy for material classification and strength assessment. Drawing from over a decade of research, including recent advances in vibration-based sensing, this work demonstrates how controlled drilling procedures can minimize external variability and yield repeatable, design-relevant interpretations across a wide range of geomaterials. The framework draws deliberate parallels to conventional geotechnical test methods, such as CPT and UCS, which achieve reliability and repeatability through strict procedural control and the mitigation of external influences. Similarly, MWD can be transformed from a site-specific monitoring tool into a standardized test method when consistent drilling protocols are implemented. This paper outlines the mechanical and procedural foundation necessary to enable that transformation and supports the development of a standardized measuring while drilling test method (MWDT) for geotechnical design applications.

Dr. Michael B Rodgers; Wyatt Kelch

International Conference Proceedings