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    Technology-Enabled Execution

    We don't drill blind. Technology supports people, decisions and safety. Humans remain at the centre of everything we do.

    Drill site operations

    Our Approach

    Why This Matters

    Drilling has traditionally been a black box. What happens at the rig stays at the rig — until something goes wrong. We believe visibility and data improve outcomes, but only when technology serves experienced people rather than attempting to replace them.

    Individual human driller knowledge is the main driver of drilling outperformance. The very best drillers (our “unicorns”) out-drill the average significantly. We are building the drilling intelligence and training data set to capture that knowledge and make it repeatable.

    Systems

    Our Technology Stack

    Intelligence-Assisted Drilling

    EdgeCore AI

    An on-rig application that learns how your ground drills best and passes that knowledge back to the driller. EdgeCore uses machine learning (XGBoost) to predict drilling performance and suggest optimized parameters including RPM, weight-on-bit, flow and bit usage for each formation.

    • Combines drilling parameters + subsurface geology inputs (formation type, rock hardness, rock Quality Designation)
    • Predicts expected rate of penetration (ROP) and recommends parameter adjustments
    • Model improves as drilling dataset grows - compounding value over time
    • Can be trained site-specific for local geological conditions
    • Captures best-practice drilling behaviour and makes it repeatable across all rigs
    EdgeCore AI

    Real-Time Digital Nervous System

    RigStream Telemetry

    Mitchell’s real-time digital nervous system for exploration drilling rigs. RigStream records and streams live machine data from every rig, enabling consistent performance monitoring and rapid response to drilling conditions.

    • Records pressure, RPM, torque, position, angles, flow rate, temperature
    • Provides true visibility into what the rig is actually doing
    • Live gauges mirror physical instruments at the console
    • Reduces reliance on individual operator intuition alone
    • Foundation for future expansion and AI integration
    RigStream Telemetry

    High-Resolution Core Scanning

    PixelCore 360

    A lightweight, field-ready mineral core scanning system that captures ultra-high-resolution, 360° digital imagery directly from the rig or core shed. Transforms traditional core trays into rich geological datasets.

    • Captures 360° core imagery for full geological visibility
    • Combined with AI-enabled Core Run App for smarter decision-making
    • Integrates seamlessly with drilling metadata (depth, ROP, WOB, torque)
    • Enables instant export to platforms like Imago for client reporting
    • Runs fully offline on the device - no connectivity required at site
    PixelCore 360

    Proprietary Mobile Recycling

    Mud Recycling Units (MRU)

    Proprietary mobile recycling units designed and manufactured by Mitchell to reduce polymer usage and improve downhole conditions. Cut point down to 20 micron, suitable for diamond drilling operations.

    • Solids removal down to 20 micron cut point
    • Reduces stuck tubes and downhole challenges
    • Reduces drilling polymer usage and sump clean out
    • Highly mobile, suited for mobile exploration rigs
    • Designed for use with environmentally friendly above ground sumps
    Mud Recycling Units (MRU)

    Hands-Free Handling

    Automated Rod & Tube Loader

    Designed to be paired with the Mitchell M450D deep hole drill rigs, the loader reduces manual handling associated with rods, inner tubes and casing. Incorporates a core barrel break and pump out station.

    • Handles 6m PQ drill rods and core barrels
    • Core barrel break and pump-out station integrated
    • Reduces manual handling and improves safety
    • Improves overall deep hole productivity and rig utilization
    • Expected rollout across exploration rigs in 2026
    Automated Rod & Tube Loader

    Comprehensive Data Capture

    Digital Drill Reporting

    Comprehensive digital recording and reporting of all drilling activities, enabling data-driven decision making and continuous improvement. Digital recording of drilling activities provides the data for time in use assessment and optimisation of drilling operations and performance.

    • Comprehensive drilling reporting platform
    • Cost, shift, and productivity analytics
    • Client portal access for real time data insights
    • Enables paperless rig operations
    Digital Drill Reporting

    Results

    Outcomes for Clients

    Technology-enabled execution means fewer surprises, better decisions, and more consistent results. Our clients see the difference in programme delivery and operational transparency.

    Real-time visibility into drilling operations
    Faster response to changing ground conditions
    Consistent performance across rigs and crews
    Better decision-making supported by data
    Enhanced training and knowledge transfer
    Reduced drilling costs through optimization

    Future

    The Future of Mineral Exploration Drilling

    MDI is planning for an eventual transition to autonomous drilling systems. The transition point will likely be adequate finger dexterity and improved intelligence. We are building the drilling intelligence and training data set for this eventuality — capturing the knowledge of our best drillers today to power the systems of tomorrow.

    We are building the systems that learn from our best drillers, understand what works in different formations, and transfer that knowledge across our fleet, so every hole is better informed than the last.

    See our technology in action

    Data-driven drilling for better outcomes.

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