Scholarly record

EFFECTIVENESS OF TUNGSTEN CARBIDE TOOLS IN PERCUSSIVE-ROTARY DRILLING OF HARD ABRASIVE ROCKS

Madiyar Aliakbar, Nursulu Tovbassarova, Manshuk Sarbopeyeva, Zhadyra Suleimenova, Madina Ganikhanova

Abstract

Percussive-rotary drilling remains the preferred method for penetrating hard abrasive rocks (UCS > 150–350 MPa) in mining, exploration, and geotechnical applications. Tungsten carbide (WC-Co) inserts, with their exceptional hardness and abrasion resistance, serve as the primary cutting elements, enabling efficient rock fracturing through combined impact and shear. This study examines tool performance, wear mechanisms (abrasive grooving, fatigue spalling, binder erosion), and optimization strategies including carbide grade selection, insert geometry (spherical, ballistic, conical), bit face design, and operational parameters (axial load, rotation speed, flushing regime). Results demonstrate significant improvements in rate of penetration (up to 80–100%), bit life extension, and cost reduction when employing tailored designs and regimes in highly abrasive formations. Future advancements in microstructure refinement and real-time monitoring promise further efficiency gains.

Publication details

Back to publication list