Professional

Diamond
Drillers
Handbook
Practical guide

The information contained in this booklet provides

the reader with suggestions and guidelines dealing
with a number of hypothetical situations. Atlas copco
accepts no responsibility for damages, consequential or
otherwise, resulting from application of such guidelines
and suggestions. The reader is strongly encouraged to
contact an authorized Atlas Copco representative to
obtain guidance in dealing with specific real situations.
Find us at www.atlascopcoexploration.com or email us
at info@atlascopcoexploration.com.

COMMITMENT

Mining is the foundation of industry and exploration

drilling is the foundation of mining. History owes a
great debt to the men and women who have gone into
remote places and worked under difficult conditions to
look into the earth and find the minerals to sustain
industries and build nations.
Atlas Copco salutes you, and makes a pledge to
Professional Diamond Drillers the world over, to seek
your advice and to hear your opinions. We will use our
considerable resources to provide you with products and
services that enhance your safety, ease your work load
and increase your rewards.
Atlas Copco will be there to support your endeavors in
both familiar and remote places. We will share in your
challenges and celebrate your triumphs. We will be your
supplier and partner.
Atlas Copco

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 - Choosing a bit
SECTION 2 - Drill settings
SECTION 3 - Drilling tips
SECTION 4 - Sharpening a bit
SECTION 5 - Bit wear patterns
SECTION 6 - Nominal core sizes
SECTION 7 - Rod and casing
SECTION 8 - Atlas Copco products
SECTION 9 - Conversion tables

SAFETY
AN ACCIDENT IS AN UNPLANNED EVENT CAUSED
BY AN UNSAFE ACT OR CONDITION.

Most accidents can be prevented through:

Proper training.
Proper supervision.
Correct use of tools and equipment.
Safe working practices.
Some safety rules:
Wear well fitting protective clothing.
Wear your hard hat, eye protection and safety boots.
Use your safety belt and life line.
Dont wear rings and jewelry at work.
Use the right tool for the job and use it correctly.
Dont try to repair moving machinery.
Store your tools properly.
Dont rush.
Keep your work place neat and safe.
Lift heavy objects properly.
Know and respect fire hazards.
Check wire rope and other equipment regularly.
Replace worn equipment.
Know your equipment. Study the operation manuals
and follow the suppliers safety recommendations.

THE PROFESSIONAL DIAMOND DRILLER

INTRODUCTION

Successful exploration drilling results from a

clear understanding and cooperation between two
professionals, the Diamond Driller and the Geologist.
Drilling operations are controlled by geologists but
they lack the knowledge and experience to optimize the
operation of the drill. The Professional Diamond Driller
should not hesitate to share his knowledge to improve
the operation.
ROCK FORMATIONS

The geological classifications of rock types are based

on chemistry and structure. The hardness classification
is a relative scale. So called soft rocks can prove more
difficult to drill than hard rock and the same formations,
in separate locations, can drill very differently. A
specific rock type can change drastically, even in the
same drill hole, requiring another choice of drill bit.
Each rock type must be considered as a range with a
number of variables affecting its drillability.
The factors most affecting the drillability of rock are:
grain size, rock hardness, weathering and fracturing.
Larger grain size and fracturing make the rock more
abrasive, while fine grained, hard rock is less abrasive.
Weathering reduces rock strength.

IMPREGNATED BITS
DRILL BITS

To accommodate these geological conditions, bit

manufacturers have created a bewildering array of
products and numbering systems that make it difficult to
match bits to rock types.
The Atlas Copco system of numbering diamond bits has
been developed to simplify the process. In this booklet
common rock formations have been grouped into key
rock groups based on the similarity of their drillability.
BIT SELECTION CHART

To simplify bit selection for the driller, rock formations

have been categorized into three applications. Each
application has a series of matrices designed specifically
for that type of drilling condition which will provide
optimum performance.
Application 1 (Green) Soft
to medium hard, abrasive
and fractured to competent
formations.
Application 2 (Blue)
Medium hard to hard, slightly
abrasive, slightly fractured to
competent formations
Application 3 (Red) Hard
to extremely hard, competent
formations.

IMPREGNATED BITS
Rock group

1-4

Rock characteristics

Rock type

Soft or medium soft

Conglomerate

Very abrasive to slightly

abrasive

Shale

Badly fractured to slightly

broken
Medium hard

Limestone
Weathered granite

Abrasive

Weathered gneiss

Moderately fractured to
slightly broken

Dolomite

Medium hard

Sandstone

Moderately abrasive
Moderately fractured to
slightly broken

Tuff
Unmetamorphosed or
weakly metamorphosed
diorite.
Gabbro peridotite and
gneiss.
Basalt, andesite.

Medium hard - hard

Metabasalt, amphibolite.

Moderately abrasive

Metamorphosed diorite
and gabbro.

Slightly fractured to
competent
Hard

Slightly abrasive
Competent
Very hard

Slightly abrasive
Very competent
Extremely hard

10

Non-abrasive, fine grain

Very competent

Diabase.
Quartz rich skarn.
Granite and pegmatite.
Metamorphosed granitic
rock and quartz rich
gneiss.
Chert and jasperite.
Quartzite.
Highly metamorphosed
volcanic.

BIT SELECTION
Professional Diamond Drillers have chosen and
depended on both Hobic and Craelius bits for many
years and are familiar with the numbering systems
used. Atlas Copco will continue to use those numbering
systems by including them in the new groups, as seen
on the following pages.
WHEN CHOOSING A BIT, THE FOLLOWING CROWN
DESIGN FEATURES ARE CONSIDERED

Step 1 - Determine application and rock group (matrix)

Step 2 - Select appropriate crown profile
Step 3 - Select crown height
MATRIX - The matrix is a mixture of synthetic
diamonds and various metals. Each of the matrices has
a different resistance to abrasion and consequently a
different rate of wear. A balanced rate of wear between
the matrix material and the diamonds ensures a high rate
of penetration and optimum bit life.
GAUGE - This refers to the outer and inner diameters of
the bit that are in direct contact with the rock. These can
be reinforced if required.
WATERWAYS - There are different waterway
configurations available depending on the drilling
conditions.

BIT SELECTION

Extended channel flushing (ECF)

Standard profile - general purpose design
Suitable for mixed formations containing broken
and competent zones.
Suitable for a broad range of formations.

Jet/V
High performance free cutting bit
High productivity
Suitable for hard/competent formations

BIT SELECTION

Face discharge (FD)

Designed to minimize washing of core sample
Suitable for broken/granular formations.

Sand
Suitable for extremely broken or clay, clay/sand
mixed formations.

BIT SELECTION

CF/CFF
Standard profile for small/thin wall diameters in
conventional systems TT/LTK
Waterway depth can be adjusted using metal file for
better flushing control.
Suitable for broad range of formations.

BIT SELECTION

Taper
Profile used in hole wedging (directional drilling
operations to ream wedged hole after pilot bit.

CROWN HEIGHT - Bits are manufactured with

standard crown heights of 10, 13 and 16mm. The
height of crown chosen is a cost decision based on hole
depth and wear rate.

BIT SELECTION
Group 1 - 4
Badly Fractured Very Abrasive Rock
Rock Formation
Examples
Conglomerate
Shale

Recommended Bits
2-4
4-6

Sandstone
Limestone

Group 5
Moderately Fractured And/Or Abrasive Rock
Rock Formation
Examples
Weathered
Granite & Gneiss
Dolomite
Tuff
Schist

Recommended Bits
4-6
5-7
AZURE

BIT SELECTION
Group 6
Moderately Abrasive Rock
Rock Formation
Examples
Basalt
Gabbro
Peridotite
Diorite

Recommended Bits
5-7
7AC
6-8
AZURE

Gneiss

Group 7
Competent, Moderately Abrasive Rock
Rock Formation
Examples
Metabasalt
Amphibolite
Diorite
Granite
Diabase

Recommended Bits
6-8
7AC F
AZURE

BIT SELECTION
Group 8
Hard, Competent, Slightly Abrasive Rock
Rock Formation
Examples
Granite
Pegmatite

Recommended Bits
AZURE
KS (S++)
8AC - 9AC

Group 9
Very Hard & Competent, Slightly Abrasive
Rock Formation
Examples

Recommended Bits

Metamorphozed
granite

9
11AC

Quartz Rich
gneiss
Group 10

Very Competent Extremely Hard Rock

Rock Formation
Examples

Recommended Bits

Chert

9
10

Jasperite
Quartzite
Methamorfozed
volcanics

INITIAL DRILL SETTINGS

Having chosen the right bit for the rock type and
conditions, based on the information at hand, the correct
drill settings must be used to get the best performance.
On some bits, the bit label has recommendations printed
on it and these are a useful guide to begin drilling.
However, it is likely that some adjustments to these
values will be required to get optimum performance
from the bit.

Reading The Bit Label

Bit O.D.

Matrix Rock Group

Excore 8-9

Application 2/3

Hard-Very Hard, Competent

RPM

900-1200

Penetration Rate

12-25 cm/min (5-10 in/min)

Water Flow

Minimum 38 l/min (10 gpm)

Sharpens at 29 l/min

INITIAL DRILL SETTINGS

Revolutions Per Minute (RPM) - The RPM is given as a

fairly broad range. A number in the middle of the range
should be used when starting and adjusted as required.
Rate of Penetration (ROP) - Again, this is given as a
range and will have to be adjusted as the WOB and
RPM are varied.
Gallons Per Minute/Litres Per Minute (GPM/LPM) The water flow is given as a minimum and the actual
pump setting should be well above this.
Weight On Bit (WOB) - The weight on bit given is the
maximum advisable. The initial drill setting should be
below this.

PERFORMANCE
BIT PERFORMANCE

Sharp diamonds cut rock, as they become dull they do

so less effectively. The bit matrix should wear at a rate
that continually exposes sharp diamonds and releases
the worn ones.
Flushing fluid should be pumped across the bit at a rate
that removes each tiny rock chip as it is loosened by the
diamonds. Failure to do this results in the chip being reground, and the ROP and bit life are adversely affected.
The WOB is required to make the diamonds bite into
the rock.
The RPM determines the rate at which the chips are
being gouged from the rock.
Through his knowledge and experience the Professional
Diamond Driller balances all these parameters to
achieve the best, economic performance from the drill
and drilling tools.
While the manufacturer does his best to make drill
setting recommendations, he cannot know what rock
type or conditions the bit will eventually be used in.
Other factors affecting drill settings are:
The size and power of the diamond drill.
The type and size of the core barrel used.
The flushing media.
Atlas Copco has world wide experience and specially
trained representatives to assist you.

ROP

The rate of penetration is the key parameter when

drilling with impregnated bits. Finding the optimum
ROP for a given Rock Type, rock condition, bit and
model of diamond drill is the goal of the Professional
Diamond Driller. Once found, this ideal ROP is
maintained by adjusting the WOB and RPM. A high
water flow across the bit face should always be
maintained at high rates of penetration.
Optimum ROP ensures:
The best overall economy of the operation.
The least work and highest rewards for the drill crew.
That the bit remains sharp and does not polish.
The best bit life.
Use the recommended ROP on the bit label as a starting
point and then vary the WOB and RPM in small
increments until the optimum ROP is found.

ALERT!

An excessive ROP will result in a high rate of matrix

wear and diamonds will be expelled while they are
still sharp. In this case any gain in ROP may be offset
by more frequent bit changes, more work for the drill
crew and an overall reduction in the economy of the
operation.

WOB
The weight placed on the bit depends on the Rock Type
and condition, bit type, RPM, ROP and water flow.
The WOB is a very important indicator of the actual
drilling conditions.
Excessive WOB can result in:
Abnormal bit wear.
Hole deviation.
Core barrel and rod damage.
Too little WOB will also result in a loss of productivity
as the bit will lose its ability to self-sharpen and could
become polished (see Section 4- Bit Sharpening).
Try to maintain a constant penetration rate by increasing
the WOB if the ROP falls.
Max WOB shown in the table below should never be
exceeded to avoid bit or core barrel damage.
Max WOB kN (lb)
Bit Size

Max WOB

22
(5000)

30
(6400)

40
(9000)

50
(11000)

60
(13500)

ALERT!

The maximum permitted WOB shown in the Max

WOB table is based on the structural integrity of
the bit and may result in damage to the rod and core
barrel if exceeded. Excessive WOB can also lead to
hole deviation.

RPM

Rotation of the drill bit causes the diamonds to tear

chips from the rock. Therefore, generally speaking,
the more rotations per minute the higher the ROP. The
rotation speed also serves to work the matrix to achieve
a constant rate of exposure of new sharp diamonds and
release of the worn ones.
RPM Chart
Bit Size

RPM min

1500

1200

900

750

600

RPM max

1700

1450

1200

950

750

ALERT!

Excessive RPM without matching penetration rate

can result in polishing the bit and negatively affect
the overall drilling economy.

FLUSHING
Drilling performance is directly related to the fluid flow
over the bit. Fluid flushing fills the following functions.
2

Removal of cuttings.
Cooling the bit.
Lubricating the bit and rod.
Annular fluid velocity must be sufficient to keep the
cuttings suspended. Recommended fluid flow for each
hole size can be found in the table below.
Flow Chart l/min (US gal/min)
Bit Size

Flow min

15 (4)

30 (8)

38 (10)

50 (13)

75 (20)

Flow max

20 (5)

36 (10)

45 (12)

60 (16)

84 (22)

RPI / RPC

Revolutions per inch (or centimeter) of advance has

been used in the past as an index to maintain the correct
relationship between RPM and ROP, eg for a rotation
speed of 1200 RPM and a penetration rate of 6 in (15
cm) per minute:
RPI = 1200/6 = 200
RPC = 1200/15 = 80
The common recommendation of 200 - 250 RPI (80 100 RPC) can only be considered as a starting point: in
modern drilling practices much higher penetration rates
are often expected for a given rotation speed, resulting
in a lower RPI value. Atlas Copco bits have been
developed to accommodate these conditions.

VIBRATION
Excessive drill rod vibrations result in:
Impact loads on the bit resulting in early failure.
Loss of core.
Stress fatigue and premature failure of drill rod and
core barrel.
Higher fuel costs.
Premature machine failure.
Excessive vibration can be the result of:
Misaligned in-the-hole equipment.
Undersize, worn, bent or oval rod.
Vibration induced from the chuck or drill head.
Incorrect pressure and volume of fluid.
Loose rod not properly torqued.
Drilling over core.
Incorrect bit.
Improper use of rod grease.
Worn or improper reaming shell causing insufficient
core barrel stabilization.
Some vibration is inevitable in rotating equipment. It
can become excessive and destructive when a number
of factors such as RPM, WOB, rock type, bit type, etc.,
are combined in proportions that set up large vibrations,
After eliminating any cause related to the above list,
the professional diamond driller can usually find a
combination of WOB and RPM that eliminates the
excess vibration and gives a good ROP.

DRILLING TIPS
ALWAYS

Treat diamond bits with care and store properly.

Start fluid circulation before running the bit to bottom.
Start a new bit several centimeters above bottom and
spin into the formation. Do not go to full ROP until
you have drilled 10-20 centimeters (4-8 inches).
Check all rod joints for leaks.
Check the rod and core barrel for alignment.
Keep the inside of rod and core barrel free from scale
and dirt.
Make sure the reaming shell is within gauge and out
lasts the bit.
NEVER

Drop the bit onto the hole bottom.

Start the bit turning with weight on it.
Collar a hole with a new bit.
Contact the bit matrix with a pipe wrench.
Grind the core.
Allow vibration to occur.
Force the bit, if it will not drill with normal pressure.

SHARPENING A BIT
Impregnated bits are self sharpening. As the matrix
wears away new sharp diamonds are exposed at a
constant rate. However, sometimes the diamonds on
the face of the bit can become worn without the matrix
abrading away. The bit will stop cutting. Generally this
occurs when:
The drill settings do not suit the conditions.
The bit does not suit the rock.
This often results from rapid formation change.
The bit can be sharpened in the hole and drilling
continued but this is a tricky operation and may
consume a lot of matrix.
To sharpen the bit, momentarily increase the WOB by
15 to 20 percent, while at the same time reducing the
water flow to near the minimum indicated on the bit
label.
When the bit begins to cut, immediately lower the WOB
and increase the water flow. Try different drill settings
than used previously to prevent reoccurrence of the
problem.

THE RIGHT CHOICE

OPTIMUM BIT WEAR

ANALYSIS
Bit feels sharp to the
touch
Good comet tails
(diamonds on bit face
well supported at the
back side by metal
alloy)
The wear is even
OD and ID within
gauge

WHY? POSSIBLE REASONS

Rock related: This bit was well suited to the rock

formation and conditions.
Drilling related: Drill setting sand flushing provided
optimum drilling.
Bit related: The diamond and matrix wear are
balanced to provide optimum performance.
WHAT TO DO? POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS

Drilling related: Continue to use the same drill

settings unless the conditions change.
Bit related: Continue to drill with this bit type unless
the rock formation and conditions change.

ALERT! Continue to watch for changes in the rock

conditions and the performance of the drill.

WHAT WENT WRONG?

MATRIX EROSION

ANALYSIS
Very rough to the
touch
Rapid crown wear
Diamonds overexposed
Gauges eroded

WHY? POSSIBLE REASONS

Rock related: Formation may have changed and is too

coarse grained, fractured or abrasive for the bit used.
Drilling related: The solids content in drilling fluid
may be too high. Excessive ROP is causing a high rate
of matrix wear and premature diamond release.
Bit related: Matrix too fast wearing (soft), or
waterway design unsuitable.
WHAT TO DO? POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS

Drilling related: Improve drilling fluid control.

Bit related: Change bit to harder matrix or different
waterway design. Reduce ROP if optimum bit life is to
be achieved.
ALERT! Advance carefully when re-entering the hole
if there has been a lot of gauge wear.

WHAT WENT WRONG?

POLISHED CROWN

FAILURE ANALYSIS
Smooth to the touch
Matrix smeared,
glazed appearance
No comet tails
Waterways restricted

WHY? POSSIBLE REASONS

Rock related: Formation has changed to harder, fine

grained and less abrasive conditions.
Drilling related: ROP may be too low for the RPM
used or flushing inadequate.
Bit related: Matrix may be too hard or waterway
design unsuitable.
WHAT TO DO? POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS

Drilling related: Increase ROP or decrease the RPM.

Bit related: Strip or dress the bit before starting to
drill. Try a bit with a softer matrix or different waterway
design if the problem persists.
ALERT! Watch the pump pressure and ROP carefully
when starting to drill.

WHAT WENT WRONG?

CONCAVE FACE WEAR

FAILURE ANALYSIS
Bit wear uneven
Face wear angled
to ID
Diamonds poorly
supported
ID gauge loss

WHY? POSSIBLE REASONS

Rock related: Formation may have changed to a

coarser grained, abrasive or fractured rock type.
Drilling related: The solids content of the drilling fluid
may be too high. May be core grinding. RPM too low or
ROP too high.
Bit related: Matrix too soft or unsuitable waterway
design.
WHAT TO DO? POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS

Drilling related: Lower solids in the drill fluid. Check

the pump and drills string for leaks, increase pump
output. Check and adjust length of the inner tube.
Increase RPM or reduce ROP.
Bit related: Try harder matrix bit or one with a
different waterway configuration.
ALERT! Continued drilling with concave face wear
will cause the bit ID to ring-out.

WHAT WENT WRONG?

CONVEX FACE WEAR

FAILURE ANALYSIS
Outer edge of the face
rounded
OD gauge wear

WHY? POSSIBLE REASONS

Rock related: Fractured formation.

Drilling related: Poor core barrel stabilization or
rod vibration, insufficient fluid flow. Reaming down
undersize hole.
Bit related: probably not bit related. Reaming shell
may be worn and undersize.
WHAT TO DO? POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS

Drilling related: Check for vibration, stabilize rod

and core barrel, try a different RPM. Check the stability
of the drill. Check the pump and drill string for leaks,
increase pump output.
Bit related: Change the reaming shell.

ALERT! Continued drilling with concave face wear

will cause the bit OD to ring-out.

WHAT WENT WRONG?

BURNT BIT

FAILURE ANALYSIS
Blackened areas
Smeared or broken out
matrix
Closed waterways

WHY? POSSIBLE REASONS

Rock related: Formation may have changed to very

fractured rock.
Drilling related: Poor bit cooling, pump failure, low
flushing water, leaking drill string, plugged bit or lost
circulation.
Bit related: Problem not likely bit related.
WHAT TO DO? POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS

Drilling related: Check the pump and drill string

for leaks. Check the inner tube adjustment, the fluid
circulation, cement the hole, and use fluid retention kit
in your core barrel.
Bit related: No change required if the bit is suited to
the formation.
ALERT! Be very careful when restarting to drill.
Watch for pump pressure cut-off, loss of ROP, loss of
circulation.

NOMINAL HOLE & CORE SIZES

Hole volume 168 L/100M
OD: max 46.12mm/1.816
min 45.87mm/1.806
ID: max 35.41mm/1.394
min 35.15mm/1.384

46TT/LTK46
Reaming Shell
OD: max 46.42mm/1.828
min 46.17mm/1.818

Hole volume 181 L/100M

OD: max 47.75mm/1.880
min 47.50mm/1.870

ID: max 27.10mm/1.067

min 26.85mm/1.057

AO
Reaming Shell
OD: max 48.13mm/1.895
min 47.88mm/1.885

Hole volume 181 L/100M

OD: max 47.75mm/1.880
min 47.50mm/1.870
ID: max 30.20mm/1.189
min 30.00mm/1.181

AGM
Reaming Shell
OD: max 48.13mm/1.895
min 47.88mm/1.885

NOMINAL HOLE & CORE SIZES

Hole volume 181 L/100M
OD: max 47.75mm/1.880
min 47.5mm/1.870
ID: max 30.43mm/1.198
min 30.18mm/1.188

ATW
Reaming Shell
OD: max 48.13mm/1.895
min 47.88mm/1.885

Hole volume 181 L/100M

OD: max 47.75mm/1.880
min 47.50mm/1.870
ID: max 35.41mm/1.394
min 35.15mm/1.384

48TT/LTK48
Reaming Shell
OD: max 48.13mm/1.895
min 47.88mm/1.885

Hole volume 282 L/100M

OD: max 59.69mm/2.350
min 59.44mm/2.340
ID: max 42.14mm/1.659
min 41.88mm/1.649

BTW/BGM
Reaming Shell
OD: max 60.07mm/2.365
min 59.82mm/2.355

NOMINAL HOLE & CORE SIZES

Hole volume 282 L/100M
OD: max 59.69mm/2.350
min 59.44mm/2.340
ID: max 36.53mm/1.438
min 36.27mm/1.428

BO
Reaming Shell
OD: max 60.07mm/2.365
min 59.82mm/2.355

Hole volume 282 L/100M

OD: max 56.69mm/2.350
min 59.44mm/2.340

ID: max 44.20mm/1.740

min 43.94mm/1.730

60TT/LTK60
Reaming Shell
OD: max 60.07mm/2.365
min 58.82mm/2.355

Hole volume 451 L/100M

OD: max 75.44mm/2.970
min 75.18mm/2.960
ID: max 45.21mm/1.780
min 44.96mm/1.770

NO3
Reaming Shell
OD: max 75.82mm/2.985
min 75.57mm/2.975

NOMINAL HOLE & CORE SIZES

Hole volume 451 L/100M
OD: max 75.44mm/2.970
min 75.18mm/2.960
ID: max 47.75mm/1.880
min 47.50mm/1.870

NO
Reaming Shell
OD: max 75.82mm/2.985
min 75.57mm/2.975

Hole volume 451 L/100M

OD: max 75.44mm/2.970
min 75.18mm/2.960
ID: max 50.80mm/2.000
min 50.65mm/1.990

NO2
Reaming Shell
OD: max 75.82mm/2.985
min 75.57mm/2.975

Hole volume 451 L/100M

OD: max 75.44mm/2.970
min 75.18mm/2.960
ID: max 56.24mm/2.214
min 55.98mm/2.204

NGM/NTW
Reaming Shell
OD: max 75.82mm/2.985
min 75.57mm/2.975

NOMINAL HOLE & CORE SIZES

Hole volume 724 L/100M
OD: max 95.76mm/3.770
min 95.38mm/3.755
ID: max 61.24mm/2.411
min 60.99mm/2.401

HO3/HOTT
Reaming Shell
OD: max 96.27mm/3.790
min 95.89mm/3.775

Hole volume 724 L/100M

OD: max 95.76mm/3.770
min 95.38mm/3.755

ID: max 63.63mm/2.505

min 63.38mm/2.495

HO
Reaming Shell
OD: max 96.27mm/3.790
min 95.89mm/3.775

Hole volume 1180 L/100M

OD: max 122.30mm/4.815
min 121.80mm/4.795
ID: max 83.19mm/3.275
min 82.93mm/3.265

PO3
Reaming Shell
OD: max 122.81mm/4.835
min 122.43mm/4.820

NOMINAL HOLE & CORE SIZES

Hole volume 1180 L/100M
OD: max 122.30mm/4.815
min 121.80mm/4.795
ID: max 85.09mm/3.350
min 84.84mm/3.340

PO
Reaming Shell
OD: max 122.81mm/4.835
min 122.43mm/4.820

DRILL ROD
Drill Rod Depth Capacity
HWT
ROD
PT
HCMO
HMO
HT
HO
NCMO
NMO
NT
NO
BCMO
BMO

BT
BO
BTT
ATT
BWJ
AWJ
0

500
(1600)

1000
(3200)

1500
2000
(4900) (6500)

2500
3000
(8200) (9843)

Meters (Feet)
Recommended maximum depth (m). A factor of safety applies to depth capacities.
These are based on straight vertical down holes and fluid filled holes.

WIRELINE DRILL ROD

Wireline Drill Rod - Standard
OD
mm
(inch)

ID
mm
(inch)

Weight
kg/3m
(lb / 10
feet)

Content
l/100m
(gal/328
feet)

AO

44.5
(1.8)

34.9
(1.4)

13.9
(30.6)

96.0
(25.4)

BO/BT/BMO

55.6
(2.2)

46.0
(1.8)

17.9
(39.5)

166.0
(43.9)

NO/NT/NMO

69.9
(2.8)

60.3
(2.4)

22.9
(50.5)

286.0
(75.6)

HO/HT/HMO

88.9
(3.5)

77.8
(3.1)

34.2
(75.4)

477.0
(126.0)

114.3
(4.5)

101.6
(4.0)

56.0
(123.5)

1180.0
(311.7)

Size

PT / HWT

7
MAKE UP TORQUE

Once the stand off joint is closed, there is a need to

apply additional torque to pre-load the joint sufficiently.
The joint will NOT make itself up during normal
drilling operation and must be pre-loaded manually with
adequate wrench sizes or mechanically with equipment.
This is to avoid joints from leaking but also premature
fatigue and failure of the joint.

WIRELINE DRILL ROD

Minimum
Make Up Torque

Wireline Drill Rod

Nm

ft-lbs

AOTW, ATT

340

250

BO, BT, BMO, BTT

400

300

NO, NT, MNO, NTW

600

450

HO,HT,HMO

1000

750

HWT Drill Rods

1000

750

Wireline Drill Rod - Thin Wall

OD
mm
(inch)

ID
mm
(inch)

Weight
kg/3m
(lb / 10
feet)

Content
l/100m
(gal/328
feet)

ATT/AOTW

44.5
(1.75)

36.8
(1.45)

11.8
(26.01)

106.0
(28.00)

BTT/BOTW

56.5
(2.22)

48.8
(1.92)

15.3
(33.73)

189.0
(49.93)

Size
7

DRILL ROD & CASING

Conventional Drill Rod
OD
mm
(inch)

ID
mm
(inch)

Weight
kg/3m
(lb / 10
feet)

Content
l/100m
(gal/328
feet)

AWJ

44.5
(1.75)

34.9
(1.37)

14.3
(31.53)

75.0
(19.81)

BWJ

55.6
(2.19)

46.0
(1.81)

18.4
(40.57)

155.0
(40.95)

NWJ

66.7
(2.63)

60.3
(2.37)

24.4
(53.79)

256.0
(67.63)

OD
mm
(inch)

ID
mm
(inch)

Weight
kg/3m
(lb/10
feet)

Content
l/100m
(gal/328
feet)

AW

57.1
(2.25)

48.4
(1.91)

16.9
(37.26)

184.0
(48.61)

BW

73.0
(2.87)

60.3
(2.37)

31.2
(68.78)

285.0
(75.29)

NW

88.9
(3.50)

76.2
(3.00)

38.8
(85.54)

456.0
(120.46)

HW/HWT

114.3
(4.50)

101.6
(4.00)

50.8
(111.99)

811.0
(214.24)

PW

139.7
(5.50)

127.0
(5.00)

64.3
(141.76)

1267.0
(334.71)

Size

Flush Joint Casing

Size

ATLAS COPCO EXPLORATION PRODUCTS

Atlas Copco manufactures and supplies a full range of
exploration drilling equipment from locations around
the world.
DIAMOND DRILLS

Christensen surface drills are available in light duty

(also fly-in), medium duty and deep hole models.
Diamec underground drills are also available for four
duty ranges. Christensen surface drills are available for
three duty ranges.
DRILL RODS

Atlas Copco offers all popular sizes of drill rods

including O, T and MO threads.
CORE BARRELS

Atlas Copco supplies a full range of both conventional

and wireline core barrels including our revolutionary
and patented Excore Safety Overshot and Core Barrel
Head Assembly. Visit our website for more information:
www.atlascopcoexploration.com

EXCORE REAMING SHELLS

Atlas Copco produces a range of reaming shells in
diamond impregnated and surface set styles. Reaming
shells are essential for maintaining proper hole size and
stabilizing the core barrel.
SURFACE SET AND IMPREGNATED REAMING
SHELLS
Excore reaming shells are manufactured to withstand
difficult drilling conditions and provide long life.
Surface set reaming shells in all common DCDMA sizes
are a stock item.
Impregnated reaming shells
and reaming shells in full
hole profile are also available.
Reaming shells are available
in industry standard lengths of
15 cm (6), 25 cm (10) and 46
cm (18 3/8). A combination
of polycrystalline diamonds
(PCD) and natural diamonds
are utilized for most standard
reaming shells and all heavy
duty reaming shells.
See Atlas Copco catalogue for
detailed information for ordering reaming shells, or
contact our customer service desk for help in making the
correct choice.

EXCORE CASING & ROD SHOES

Atlas Copco supplies impregnated casing shoes and rod
shoes.
IMPREGNATED CASING SHOES
Excore casing and rod shoes are manufactured to handle
a broad range of conditions, from unconsolidated
overburden to broken, abrasive formations. Impregnated
standard and heavy duty casing shoes are stock items.

See Atlas Copco catalogue for detailed information for

ordering casing shoes or contact our customer service
desk for help in making the correct choice.

CONVERSION TABLES
Length

Times

Equals

in (inches)

25.4

mm

ft (feet)

0.305

yd (yard)

0.914

miles

1609

5ft (feet)

0.305

1.524m

10ft (feet)

0.305

3.048m

m (meter)

39.37

in

1.5m (meter)

39.37

59.055in

3m (meters)

39.37

118.11in

Area

Times

Equals

mm2 (square mm)

0.000001

m2

cm (square cm)

0.0001

m2

in2 (square inches)

645

mm2

ft (square feet)

0.0929

m2

yd (square yards)

0.8361

m2

Acres

4047

m2

Square miles

2.590

km2

CONVERSION TABLES
Volume
l (liters)

Times
x

0.001

ml (milliliters)

0.001

dm3 (cubic decimeters)

1.0

cm3 (cubic centimeters)

1.0

ml

mm3 (cubic millimeters)

0.001

ml

m3

in (cubic inches)

16.39

ml

ft3 (cubic feet)

28.316

Imperial gallon

4.546

U.S. gallon

3.785

Ounces (Imp. fluid oz)

28.41

ml

Ounces (U.S. fluid oz)

29.57

ml

Pints (U.S. liq)

0.4732

Quarts (U.S. liq)

0.9463

yd3 (cubic yards)

0.7646

m3

Mass (Weight)

Equals

Times

Equals

g (grams)

0.001

kg

t (tonnes, metric)

1000

kg

grains

0.0648

oz (ounce)

28.35

lb (pounds)

0.4536

kg

tons (long, U.S.)

1016

kg

tons (U.K.)

1016

kg

tons (short)

907

kg

CONVERSION TABLES
Power

Times

Equals

kW (kilowatts)

1000

Horsepower, metric

735.5

Horsepower, U.K.

745.7

ft. lbf/sec

1.36

Btu/h

0.29

Speed

Times

Equals

km/h (kilometers/hour)

0.2777

m/s

m/s
mph (miles/hour)

3.6

km/h

0.45

m/s

mph
ft/s (foot/second)

1.61

km/h

0.3048

m/s

ft/s (foot/second)

18.29

ft/min

ft/min (foot/minute)

0.3048

m/min

r/min (rev./minute)

0.01667

r/s

degrees/second

0.1667

r/min

radians/second

0.1592

r/s

Frequency

Times

Equals

CONVERSION TABLES
Pressure

Times
x

100

kPa

bar

100 000

Pa

kp/cm

atm (atmospheres)

0.98

bar

1.01

bar

psi (pounds/in2)

6.895

kPa

psi

0.06895

bar

Force

Times

Equals

kN (kilonewton)

1000

kp (kilopond)

9.81

kgf (kilogram force)

9.81

lbf (pound force)

4.45

Torque
kpm (kilopondmeters)

Equals

bar

Times
x

9.81

Equals
=

Nm

lbf In (pound force inch)

9.81

Nm

lbf ft (pound force foot)

1.36

Nm

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Much of the information contained in this book is the
result of the experience gained through many years of
close cooperation with our customers. Another valuable
source of information was The Diamond Drilling
Handbook by W. F. Heinz. Atlas Copco gratefully
acknowledges the important work done by Dr. Heinz.
Atlas Copco

Copyright 2014, Atlas Copco Secoroc AB. All rights reserved. This
publication, as well as all specifications, is subject to change without notice.

Atlas Copco Secoroc AB

PO Box 521, 737 25 Fagersta, Sweden
Phone: +46 223 461 00
www.atlascopco.com/secoroc

Fagersta, Sweden, June 2015

6991 1772 01 b

We stand by our responsibilities wards our customers,

towards the environment and the people around us.
We make performance stand the test of time.
This is what we call - Sustainable Productivity.