Underground Drill Bits for Hard Rock Mining

DTH hammer bits use percussive force from an air-driven piston combined with tungsten carbide buttons to fracture hard rock efficiently, ideal for deep, straight boreholes. Tricone bits use three rotating cones with cutting teeth or inserts, offering versatility across hard to soft formations and are often preferred where percussion equipment isn't available.

Diameter ranges vary by bit type. DTH hammer bits are available from 2" to 18" (50.8mm to 457.2mm) across 12 shank/connection models, while PDC rock tools range from 8" to 13.5". Custom diameters outside standard ranges can be manufactured to match specific rig and borehole requirements.

DTH hammer bits are typically offered in Standard, Diamond, and Bluemaxx carbide grades. Diamond and Bluemaxx grades provide enhanced wear resistance and longer service life in highly abrasive or extremely hard rock formations, while Standard carbide suits general-purpose hard rock drilling at a lower cost.

Hole openers, including DTH and tricone designs, are run behind a pilot bit to enlarge an existing borehole to a required final diameter. They use multiple cutting structures, either carbide buttons or roller cones, to expand the hole while maintaining stability and trajectory in hard rock formations.

Look for manufacturers with ISO 9001:2015 certification, which ensures consistent quality control throughout production. For PDC bits, API REG PIN connection compliance confirms compatibility with standard drilling equipment. These certifications indicate the manufacturer follows recognized quality and industry connection standards.

Yes, custom manufacturing is widely available for non-standard diameters, face shapes, button configurations, carbide grades, and shank connections. This allows operators to match bits precisely to their formation hardness, rig specifications, and borehole targets, improving penetration rates and tool longevity in challenging mining conditions.