Combining the benefits of the RR222, RR321 and RR221 plus adding completely new features is the key behind the long bit life of the new Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions RR240 air bearing rotary bit. A longer bit life means fewer bits to recycle, fewer bit changes and manual handling, and less risk of injuries. Sandvik says it is safer, more cost-effective, and better for the enviroment. Sandvik says it took the best parts of its three air bearing bits, added new layers of improvements and optimised the designs. Highlighted features include:

• PowerCarbide™ for longer insert wear life in challenging rock conditions.
• An upgraded cutting structure, using the best components from previous products.
• Hard-faced heal row in selected models for improved wear protection.
• CSD (Cutting Structure Development) modelling with improved bottom hole coverage and bit life.
• CSI (Compressive Stress Induced) carbide for improved bit life and insert toughness.

“The RR240 combines our best air bearing bits, improved with CSD optimisation and world-class Sandvik PowerCarbide™, setting a new industry standard,” says Åsa Grönqvist – Manager R&D Rotary and Raise Boring at Sandvik. The Sandvik PowerCarbide™ range the company says is the most significant carbide innovation in the rock drilling industry for decades, representing its most advanced materials technology. Tests show that PowerCarbide™ can increase the bit life up to 50%, depending on the formations drilled. “The durability of the new RR240 gives you longer life, less bits changes and lower total drilling costs,” says Carsten Mijic – Sandvik Global Product Manager, Rotary Bits.