Epiroc releases new underground drill bit packed with power

Epiroc Australia

Powerbit Underground is a response to market demand for a bit that matches the high drilling speeds of ever-stronger rigs and rock drills.

In trials around the world Powerbit Underground has outperformed all standard Epiroc drill bits delivering nearly 40 percent more drill metres at faster penetration rates. Even increasing productivity on older rigs with lower water pressure.

The results of the Australian trials are equally impressive.

Over a three month period, Powerbit Underground has been tested at five Australian mine sites with varying rock conditions.

“The feedback from the drill rig operators has been very positive,” says Jamie Cairns, Product Manager for Tophammer Rock Drilling Tools at Epiroc Australia.

Operators said the new Powerbit Underground “drills smoother, gives greater penetration, achieves more holes before re-sharpening and decreases the amount of times you (drillers) have to get in and out of the cab.”

The tests universally show a higher penetration rate and longer intervals between regrinds, boosting the productivity of both new and older rigs.

“On average across global trial sites, the new bit averaged 37 percent more drill meters before being discarded, peaking at 82 percent in one test round. No doubt, we’re setting a new productivity standard for underground mining,” says Johan Thenór, Product Line Manager for Tophammer products at Epiroc.

The improved productivity is partly explained by the bit’s optimised flushing capacity explains Thenór.

“The hole configuration maximises flushing efficiency, which is key to the high penetration rate.”

Epiroc uses the hardest steel and has configured the bit’s face in such a way that it removes cuttings faster than ever before. Epiroc’s innovative trapezoid-shaped buttons “Trubbnos” also increase penetration rate and service life compared to conventional, semi-ballistic buttons.

The Powerbit Underground is being released initially in 45mm diameter, these will then be followed by 48mm, 51mm and other dimensions in the near future.

With Powerbit Underground drillers can get the best performance their rigs and achieve a whole new penetration capability. Powerbit Underground is a game changer.

In Australia, Epiroc officially launched the new Powerbit at the Coolgardie Day Celebrations, alongside the Rockdrill Competition they proudly sponsored on September 15.

Press release from Epiroc Australia

/Public Release.