El Salvador :: The Work – part 2
posted May 28th, 2008 by George
. . . This was also a good time to change shifts so half the team could rest while the other half worked in the sun.
Our team was divided into two groups. Each group had 4 drillers. There are 4 positions on the drilling rig. First up is the one operating the drill. You control the rotation, up and down movement, and keep an eye on the flow of mud up the shaft.
Second was the assistant driller. This person is responsible for keeping the trench clean and the mud flowing. You also have to take the soil samples as well as switch the mud pump to recirculate back into the pit instead of down the drill stem when it’s time to add a new section of drill pipe.
Next up is the tool pusher who is responsible for all the tools. You keep the tools in their proper place, retrieve tools as needed, and general oversight of the team. You also prepare the drill pipes when their needed by cleaning the threads and adding some grease.
Finally was our favorite position in the mud pit. Here you have to ensure that the mud pump keeps flowing. This involves reaching down into the mud and pulling any debris away from the intake of the pump’s hose. You have to be careful to keep the intake hose under the surface, because if it draws in air, then the pump will lose suction and will have to be primed again.
If we were not drilling we were drinking as much water as possible, resting in the shade, or playing with the kids.
Filed under: El Salvador, Faith on May 28th, 2008
It is an interesting phenomena that occurs on these trips. You think that you are going to bless someone. However, it turns out that you are the one that is blessed.
That certainly is true. It was such a joy to be there with all of these children. The hugs from mothers and grandmothers, the smiles on their faces, the message of hope. It’s hard to even express sometimes.