Crooked holes can cause other problems. How can you control drift in air rotary drilling?

• A. Use stabilizers
• B. Adjust bit weight
• C. Maintain proper drilling alignment
• D. Use stabilizers, adjust bit weight, and maintain proper drilling alignment

Answer: (D)

Controlling drift in air rotary drilling comes from keeping the drill string centered, managing how the bit penetrates the rock, and guiding the overall path of the hole. Stabilizers are placed on the drill string to keep it centered in the borehole, which reduces lateral movement and helps the bit follow a straighter course. Bit weight, or weight on bit, influences how the bit interacts with the formation; the right amount of weight helps the bit cut smoothly without wandering, while too little or too much weight can increase deflection. Maintaining proper drilling alignment means keeping the entire assembly on the planned path, verified by measurements or surveys and adjusted as needed to stay on target. Using stabilizers, adjusting bit weight, and keeping the drill aligned work together to minimize drift, making the hole more true to the intended trajectory.