During rock work, the following tests must be conducted:

• Measurement of the groundwater level;
• A structural description of the rock and geomechanical classification with interpretation of the data;
• Uniaxial compression test and tensile strength;
• Cherchar abrasivity test;
• Determination of bulk density;
• Lugeon type water pressure test.

The preliminary engineering/feasibility study analyzed the identified risks of inserting a steel conduit through directional drilling. The mitigation of risks reduced the overall impact on the project and made it possible to proceed with directional drilling.

The design calculations for directional drilling are executed iteratively according to the following elements and industry standards:

• Path design;
• Bend radius;
• Pulling forces;
• Induced stresses on the conduits during insertion;
• Induced stresses on the conduits in operation;
• Annular pressure;
• Rheological characterization of drilling fluids;
• Thickness and strength of the conduits;
• Design of conduit support during pulling.