Project Mohole Electrocorer Method of Ocean Floor Sampling

摘要

A modification of a down-hole electric pump was adapted to a retrievable coring tool. This method consists of a rotary electrical motor-driven unit (50 ft. - 140 ft. in length), that is easily transportable, to be lowered and raised from the hole by a power cable. The only operational requirement is enough liquid in the hole for submersion of the entire unit. Cuttings are deposited in the upper part of the unit by a centrifugal circulating pump. The unit must be pulled to dump the cuttings and recover the core. Power cable is available for depths ranging to 20,000 ft., incorporating three (3) instrument leads for transporting operating information from the tool to the water's surface. The motor can withstand the temperatures usually encountered at this depth. Since ocean floor temperatures are at or near 32 degrees Fahrenheit, temperature rise of the electric system is negligible. (Author)