Accurate core orientation is fundamental to reliable structural geology and mineral resource estimation. Nevertheless, errors during the transfer of orientation marks to the core remain a common and often overlooked issue in the industry. These misalignments can cascade through the data pipeline, leading to costly mistakes in structural interpretation, geological modeling and decision-making.
To effectively address this challenge, Vektore has developed the vCAT (Vektore Core Alignment Tool) - a simple, non-electronic tool designed to improve the accuracy of orientation transfer. By releasing vCAT as a free, open-source tool under the Creative Commons license (CC BY-NC-SA 4.0), Vektore aims to make this solution tool widely accessible, enabling professionals, educators, and field teams worldwide to adopt more reliable core alignment practices and enhance the quality and trustworthiness of structural data acquisition.
Full article describing industry challenges, and case-studies can be found at: Vektore Knowledge Centre
Download both STL Parts Main Part and Small Part
- 3D printer
- Eight Rare Earth strong magnets - 12 mm x 3 mm
- Two Rare Earth strong magnets - 4mm x 2mm
- Cylindrical Bubble Level 9.5x40mm
The main piece can be printed without support, but depending on your printer and material, it might be safer to support the bottom overhangs (see image below)
The small piece does not require supports
The vCAT (Vektore Core Alignment Tool) is provided by Vektore Exploration Consulting Corporation (Vektore) under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License (CC BY-NC-SA 4.0). This license allows users to use, share, and adapt the tool for non-commercial purposes, provided proper attribution is given to Vektore and any derivative works are distributed under the same license. The tool is provided "as is" without any warranties, express or implied, including but not limited to warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Users are responsible for ensuring the tool's suitability for their specific applications and for complying with all applicable laws and regulations. Vektore shall not be liable for any damages, losses, or other liabilities arising from the use or inability to use vCAT, including but not limited to direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages. By downloading, printing, or using vCAT, you acknowledge and agree to the terms of the CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 license and this disclaimer.
Commercial Use Notice: if you are interested in manufacturing and/or commercializing any product based on these design files, please contact Vektore to obtain a separate commercial agreement.