Skip to content
KAAN SONDAJ

HQ, NQ and PQ core sizes explained

Core size balances depth, recovery and cost.

, Technical, 1 min read

Among standard wireline sizes, PQ (about 85 mm core), HQ (about 63.5 mm) and NQ (about 47.6 mm) are the most common.

Larger sizes give better recovery and sample volume; smaller sizes let the same rig reach greater depth. Starting large through weak zones and reducing in competent rock is common practice.