While geothermal energy itself is a clean, sustainable resource, the equipment powering these projects should be, too.  In this blog article, we explore how Atlas Copco’s innovations in mobile air compressors are transforming geothermal drilling in Europe and beyond.

Why geothermal drilling requires specialized technology

Geothermal drilling is a complex process that demands consistent high pressure to penetrate deep into the Earth. The equipment must adapt to different geological layers, from hard rock to softer sedimentary soil. Efficient, high-volume air flow is crucial to avoid issues like cavitation (which can disrupt drilling) and to support continuous rotation. Finally, the equipment needs to be robust enough to withstand the heat, pressure, and corrosive elements often encountered in geothermal fields.

How drilling technology innovations are shaping the future of geothermal energy

Advancements in drilling technology have made it possible to drill deeper, faster, and with less environmental impact, positioning geothermal as a central player in the future of clean energy. Key benefits include:

• Real-time monitoring and adjustments for consistent, optimized pressure and improved diagnostics.
• Innovations in portability and fuel efficiency that reduce costs and emissions.
• Durable designs built for challenging geological and climatic conditions.

Atlas Copco’s geothermal drilling solutions

Geothermal energy is a clean, sustainable resource, but the equipment powering these projects should be, too. High-efficiency portable compressors designed for geothermal drilling help reduce fuel consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions, making projects more environmentally friendly and economically viable. 

The compact yet powerful X-Air⁺ 750-25 portable compressor

Our customers in geothermal drilling have diverse needs, from deep wells for large geothermal installations to shallower wells near town centers and homes. The X-Air⁺ 750-25 portable air compressor was developed to address these specific requirements. Unlike our previous models, the X-Air⁺ 750-25 is compact yet powerful, making it ideal for ground engineering, water well drilling, geothermal drilling, and foundation drilling.

Atlas Copco has tailored its DrillAir series of portable compressors specifically for  drilling applications, addressing unique challenges and maximizing productivity. The latest additions, the compact mobile air compressor X-Air⁺ 750-25 and the large high-pressure air compressor X-Air⁺ 1200-40, exemplify Atlas Copco’s commitment to innovation. These high-pressure portable compressors offer enhanced performance with the smallest footprint, making them ideal for geothermal projects that require mobility, efficiency and better productivity.

Pressure control for efficient drilling

Efficient geothermal drilling hinges on achieving the right air pressure and flow. Atlas Copco’s newly improved AirXpert performance management system keeps portable compressor performance optimized in real-time, adjusting air pressure and flow rates to meet each stage’s specific needs. 

This ensures optimal fuel consumption and efficiency for each specific application, resulting in quicker drilling with less energy, smoother operations with minimized downtime, and the ability to reach geothermal reservoirs faster

Flexibility across geological formations

Drilling for geothermal resources requires traversing varied and often unpredictable geological layers. Atlas Copco’s Dynamic Flow Boost and Extended Pressure Range (XPR) technologies adapt to these conditions by boosting air flow during specific operations like flushing and drill stem refilling. This reduces cycle times and prevents cavitation. Customizable pressure settings help prevent soil erosion and ensure smooth penetration through different geological formations.

Mobility and cost efficiency

Geothermal projects often require mobilization across vast or remote areas. Atlas Copco’s portable DrillAir compressors, like the X-Air+ 750-25, offer simplified transportation with their compact designs, making transport and setup easier and saving time. This efficiency translates to lower project costs per drilled meter and improved productivity, enabling more meters drilled per hour with less logistical hassle.

Field-tested reliability in geothermal applications

Geothermal drilling requires specialized drilling rigs equipped with high-performance portable compressors and durable components capable of handling extreme heat and depth. Large air portable compressors, paired with customized drilling rigs, ensure smooth, efficient operation tailored to geothermal requirements. These rigs are designed to work in challenging environments, whether drilling for shallow geothermal systems or deeper geothermal energy production, providing the flexibility and reliability needed for successful project completion.

Real-world testing and field use have shown that Atlas Copco’s DrillAir portable compressors perform consistently, even in extreme environments. From freezing conditions to volcanic landscapes, DrillAir units have proven their resilience. Beyond geothermal, these portable compressors excel in ground engineering and water well drilling, supporting a wide range of high-stakes projects. Projects have reported drilling depths of up to 500 meters per day, underscoring DrillAir’s efficiency and dependability.

Portable and compact compressors like the X-Air⁺ 750-25 enable easier transport and setup, which reduces project downtime. These rigs and portable units are designed to work in challenging environments, providing the flexibility and reliability needed for effective geothermal drilling.

Comparing foundation drilling vs. geothermal drilling

While both foundation and geothermal drilling rely on similar drilling technology and high-powered equipment, their objectives and technical requirements differ significantly.

Foundation drilling focuses on creating stable, supportive ground structures to support buildings, bridges, and other structures, requiring precision but often dealing with shallower depths.

In contrast, geothermal drilling is aimed at accessing heat energy stored deep within the Earth, typically at greater depths and with the need to handle higher temperatures and pressures.

Atlas Copco’s DrillAir portable compressors are well-suited for both foundation and geothermal drilling, but the design differences cater specifically to your needs, ensuring efficiency and reliability tailored to each application.

Proven reliability in the field

Atlas Copco’s DrillAir portable compressors have repeatedly proven their durability in demanding environments. With a track record in ground engineering, water well drilling, and geothermal applications, these units deliver dependable performance in tough settings. Some recent projects have demonstrated the capability to reach drilling depths of up to 500 meters per day, underscoring their resilience and reliability.

Conclusion

As geothermal energy adoption accelerates, investing in the right technology is critical to maximizing efficiency and sustainability. Advanced compressed air and drilling technology from Atlas Copco empower you to reach geothermal reservoirs faster, safer, and more cost-effectively, helping drive the transition to a sustainable energy future.

Ready to optimize your drilling operations? Contact Atlas Copco’s compressed air experts to discuss how our DrillAir range can enhance the efficiency of your ground engineering, water well drilling, geothermal and foundation drilling projects.