ROCK TOOLS
Rockmore makes a MultiPoint
Rockmore International in recent years has developed a revolutionary new carbide insert design for their button bits , the MultiPoint . In percussion drilling , penetration rates depend on efficient crack propagation . With a conventional hemispherical insert , there is a single tangent point striking the rock , resulting in the rapid development of wear flats . Rockmore ’ s exclusive new carbide insert design provides multiple strike points for more efficient rock fracture and longer insert life .
Extensive rock-drilling trials showed that Rockmore ’ s button bits with MultiPoint inserts last up to 20 % longer than the standard hemispherical design , and increased penetration rates by 10 %. Wear flats appeared slower and later in the insert life than with hemispherical inserts . Testing also revealed that the MultiPoint inserts provided smoother bit rotation and advancement .
With the new Rockmore MultiPoint design , there is better transfer of energy , imparting more
effective rock fracture . Button wear is reduced and overall bit life enhanced in even the most abrasive and hardest rock conditions . The MultiPoint design is currently available in 12-19 mm diameter carbide inserts , in Rockmore ’ s DTH and top-hammer bits , 89-254 mm diameter .
With the Rockmore MultiPoint design , there is better transfer of energy , imparting more effective rock fracture
The longer lifespan of the Epiroc Powerbit X and the Epiroc SR35 system also simplifies our logistics . We need fewer deliveries , which is a significant advantage ,” said Hakan Diken , Operational Manager for Sargin Insaat .
“ From a warehouse perspective , the Epiroc Powerbit X and the Epiroc SR35 system have made our lives easier . We ' re dealing with fewer deliveries and less stock , which has streamlined our operations . The consumption of bits has reduced by about 75 %. This reduction equals to thousands of drill bits per year which needs to be handled throughout the operations ,” added Yüksel Çoban , Warehouse Employee at Sargin Insaat .
The implementation of the Epiroc Powerbit X and the Epiroc SR35 system has not only transformed the drilling operations , but also accelerated the overall development of the mine . Epiroc also predicts that the use of this new system will have additional benefits to the rest of the string , including the rock drill and feed system . “ We anticipate that the improved efficiency and reduced wear and tear from the Epiroc Powerbit X and Epiroc SR35 system will extend the service life of the rock drill and feed system , providing further benefits to our customers ,” said Murat Isgoren , Epiroc Business
Development Manager .
Moving to tricone bits and Epiroc ’ s Epsilon2 it says is outperforming previous bit designs and can drill up to 30 % longer distances before replacement compared to reference bits . “ Not only do our customers gain longevity , but they also experience a prolonged and sustained increase in penetration rates . The Epsilon2 Epiroc Tricone bit is more than just a tool ; it ' s a gamechanger that promises to elevate our customers mining operations by reducing their Total Drilling Cost ( TDC ), offering a balance of speed and life and boosting their productivity , efficiency , safety and profits . The exterior of the Epsilon2 reveals a plethora of high-quality features including longlasting enduro carbide inserts , tailored insert configurations , tough and wear-resistant enduro carbide inserts , steel alloy and standardised API or BECO threads .”
Epiroc adds that inside the Epsilon2 , there is revolutionary air-bearing bit technology , featuring Tornado . The technology , aptly named for its precision , directs airflow to the load side of the bearings . The result is enhanced cooling performance and extended bearing life , ensuring your bit stands up to the test of time .
Finally , Epiroc DTH products it says are leading the way for value and innovation in the global market today . “ With the largest portfolio in the world we have the tools that you need to get the job done and protect your bottom line at the same time . Epiroc also has the advantage of designing the drilling rigs and drilling tools together to get the most efficiency out of the complete drilling system from the rig to bit , this also allows us to focus on the entire drill string to work flawlessly together . Sustainability and efficiency is at the top of our list when creating strategies and products for the future .”
New tools on the horizon include more efficient down the hole rock breakers , longer lasting bits with better penetration rates , and digital tools to fine tune drilling parameters and get accurate reporting so you can see the efficiency of your operation and lower your overall cost per metre .
Mincon continues to advance Greenhammer
Ireland ’ s Mincon continues to make progress with its Greenhammer system despite some setbacks , stating recently : “ We have engaged with a major rig manufacturer on a collaboration to prove out the system by converting one of their rigs and testing it at a location in the US . This is an attractive location as the largest rig population suitable for conversion to Greenhammer is in this market . Another attractive feature of this collaboration is the service footprint that we both have in this market . We remain heavily focused on getting the system running in Western Australia and expect the system to return to operation in the coming
Mincon is collaborating with a leading drill rig manufacturer to advance its revolutionary Greenhammer hydraulic DTH hammer system , which potentially offers up to three times faster speeds
26 International Mining | NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023