forecast, page-5

technology annoucement ASX/MEDIA RELEASE May 24th, 2004
SDS Corporation progresses Fluid Hammer technology with first commercial
project
Leading mining distribution and manufacturing group SDS Corporation (ASX:SDS) today announced that
its revolutionary Fluid Hammer, which is currently under commercial development, has been chosen for a
deep sea scientific research project with the Integrated Ocean Drilling Program (IODP). The IODP is an
international partnership of scientists, research institutions and governments organized to explore the
evolution, structure and natural history of the Earth.
This is the first contract that SDS has secured for the application of the Fluid Hammer, a key component of
the IODP Hard Rock Re-entry system (HRRS), illustrating that the Group’s strategy of forming a dedicated
steering committee to commercialize the technology is beginning to deliver results.
SDS Corporation’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Christian Lange. said this development with the IODP is
another step in SDS’s plan to demonstrate the full technical capability of the Fluid Hammer, and gives the
Group the opportunity to continue its development program which will extend the Fluid Hammer’s future
commercial applications.
“This project with the IODP was secured because of a collaborative approach to developing the HRRS
which enables the research vessel JOIDES Resolution to commence drilling into hard, smooth, sloping
surfaces without the need for an ocean floor template, significantly reducing the time it takes to initiate and
drill a hole in deep sea locations. The end result is considerable cost savings over conventional drilling
processes for project operators
“This project is another positive development in making the Fluid Hammer the most advanced and cost
effective hard rock drilling technology.
“SDS is now entering the third phase of a four-phase program to bring the Fluid Hammer to
commercialisation. Previously, we have undergone successful beta testing under a range of different
conditions, with encouraging results. SDS is also currently examining opportunities for the ongoing testing
of the Fluid Hammer for oilwell drilling applications, resulting in the Group’s planned entry into the oil and
gas sector through the commercialisation of this technology,” Mr Lange said.