Project Overview
January 12, 2026
Date :
International Drilling Fluids Contractor
Client :
Mineral Sourcing & Export Quality Assurance
Category :
Kadapa (AP) & Kutch (GJ) to Kandla Port
Location :
API Mineral Sourcing
We performed a root-cause forensic investigation of the contractor's export supply chain at Kandla Port, inspecting customs test logs, spot-broker delivery notes, and pycnometry certificates. This diagnostic revealed that intermediate traders were blending sub-grade shales into heavy barytes, directly causing contract violations.
Engineered Solutions & Execution
Mine-Gate Direct Aggregation
Replaced spot-broker channels with long-term extraction contracts directly at the Mangampet deposits in Kadapa and verified sodium bentonite pits in Kutch, bypassing speculative intermediaries.
Pre-Dispatch Rigorous Testing
Established an on-siding assay laboratory at loading points. Every 500-tonne lot was verified via calibrated helium pycnometry for specific gravity and wavelength-dispersive XRF for barium sulfate purity.
Assayed Property Guarantees
Barytes was guaranteed at ≥ 4.22 SG with water-soluble alkaline earths below 100 ppm, while bentonite was certified to maintain a swelling index above 32 ml/2g without chemical polymer additives.
Quantified Operational Impact
Zero Rejections
Port Custody Clearance
-14%
Acquisition Savings
≥ 4.22 SG
Certified Specific Gravity
Driving Value Beyond Completion
Our engagement delivers continuous protection through dedicated port-side sampling, vessel loading oversight, and pre-cleared assay documentation. We conduct monthly quality audits directly at mine extraction faces, ensuring uniform density and chemical compliance before raw material is ground or bagged.
The client maintains an uninterrupted export schedule, protected margins, and an unblemished delivery record with global oilfield operators. This case underscores how direct mine-gate control and rigorous quality assurance eliminate global supply chain risks.