Epiroc is introducing a new drilling innovation with diamond-protected buttons, which, it says, can significantly prolong the replacement intervals for drilling applications in hard rock.

Powerbit X with diamond-protected buttons comes with less exposure to danger for operators, more uptime and lower CO2 emissions among its benefits.

Epiroc explained: “The less time an operator spends on changing drill bits, the better. Every avoided bit change eliminates the risk of slipping and falling and prevents injured backs, hands and fingers as well as increase the drilling time.”

In this regard, Powerbit X is a game-changer when it comes to safety, according to Goran Popovski, President of the Tools & Attachments division at Epiroc.

“The diamond-protected buttons gives the drill bits substantially longer service life than those with standard buttons as well as maximises the drilling time, which means fewer changes, higher productivity and less exposure to danger for operators,” he said.

Powerbit X realises the full potential of remotely and automatically controlled drilling, according to the company, with the long drill bit life means that it is possible to drill in auto mode over lunch breaks, shift changes and blast ventilation cycles.

Jonas Falkeström, Strategic Business Development Manager at Epiroc, said: “An operator can complete a single hole with only one drill bit. The alternative with in-hole bit replacements is time-consuming and quickly adds substantial productivity losses. It is possible to save hundreds of hours by changing to this new technology using buttons protected by diamonds.”

The extremely hard surface of Powerbit X makes it possible to reduce the amount of CO2 emissions per drilled metre – by up to 90% compared with standard drill bits, Epiroc says. The long bit life of Powerbit X means that less energy and resources are consumed, with a reduced need for drill bits in the mining operation translating to a reduction in transport to the mine and in the mine.

And, using Powerbit X means the drill bits will require no regrinding. When a Powerbit X drill bit is finally worn out, it is time for recycling, not regrinding, the company says.

Epiroc concluded: “Constant hole diameter is essential for efficient and even blasting. When using a traditional drill bit, the diameter gets reduced over time, leading to smaller and smaller holes. With Powerbit X, the diamond-protected buttons keep their shape throughout the lifetime of the bit. The fact that the holes are of the same size every time improves both the blasting quality and the life of the drilling equipment.”