Kenbar Geotechnic, a customer of Thailand-based Sullair distributor Power Air Systems, provided equipment in the Tham Luang Cave rescue efforts. On July 2-3, 2018, a drilling machine powered by a Sullair 550RH DPQ portable air compressor was airlifted by an Army MI-17 transport helicopter to Doi Pha Mee and was staged for drilling activities. The extraction method proposed would have drilled out a new cavity to find an alternate route into the Tham Luang Cave.
Extraction methods such as drilling or placing the boys in nylon pods with air tanks were proposed, but the dive method was ultimately decided as the best option in the treacherous conditions. British cave divers commenced rescue operations on July 7th and successfully completed the mission on July 10th, marking a dramatic completion to a story which had the world on its toes. All 12 boys and their coach were rescued – a remarkable feat.
