RIDGEBACK

MARATHON

RIDGEBACK
D-FORCE

INNOVATION HAS NO LIMITS

Proud to be a Miner

TABLE OF CONTENTS

A Brief
Introduction

Ridgeback Marathon
Ridgeback D-Force

TM

1-2

TM

and

Comparison

Innovation, Evolution,
Features and Benefits

4-5

Blast Hole Bits

6-10

Tungsten Carbide
Industrial Bits

11

Mineral
Exploration Bits

12

Steel Tooth Product Range

13-16

Pilot Bits

17

Additional Useful Data

18-21

C E R T I F I E D

DEDICATED TO DRILL BITS

Varel International is focused exclusively

on producing world class drilling bits.
We are committed to introducing drill bit innovation in
partnership with our customers.
We are a dedicated specialist drill bit manufacturer
with more than 50 years experience.
Vision Statement
We will be recognized as a leading global drill bit company

Mission Statement
We will deliver ever-increasing value to our customers and other
stakeholders by exceeding industry standards for performance,
service and innovation.

Company Values
We believe that people make a successful business.
We are a team of passionate people who :

V alue
A re

our employees for their dedication and innovation.

accountable to our stakeholders.

R eliably
E thically
L ead

provide products and service.

interact with our customers, competitors, vendors and community.

in generating value for our customers.

After its founding in 1947,

Varel International remained a
family owned business until 1998,
and is now majority owned
by the Arcapita (USA) Group.

Development
of Varel rock bits
since

2000
The introduction of the patented
Varel Ridgeback series produced the
first generation of advanced
technology features designed for
longer life bearings, improved
cutting structures, and the famous
Ridgeback shirttail concept.
All of these features greatly
assists hole cleaning resulting
in extended bit life.

2008
Building on the success of
the patented Ridgeback series,
the introduction of the new
Ridgeback MarathonTM and
Ridgeback D-ForceTM Series
combines many of the existing
field-proven features, plus a
new high load SP1 bearing
package, reinforced gage and
shirttail protection features.
These Ridgeback D-ForceTM
features have been
introduced to increase
performance in highly
abrasive conditions.

TM

TM

Marathon & D-Force

- feature comparison

Backed by years of field-proven technology and expertise, Varel has become

the leading provider of high performance drill bits.
Our technological advances embrace the use of highly sophisticated computer
technology, premium raw materials and thousands of "on the job man hours",
all aimed at reducing our customers cost of drilling.

TM

Ridgeback
Marathon Blast Hole
HET carbide
treatment

HET carbide
treatment

Vented cones

Vented cones

Tougher
carbide grades
Tough & wear
resistant
cutting structure
New SP1 advanced
bearing design

Increased
hole wall
clearance
New SP1 advanced
bearing design
New abrasion
resistant
carbide grades

Ridgeback

Sidewinder
shirttail/gage
protection

Ridgeback Marathon products

contain new longer life bearings,
additional gage protection, and
improved cutting structure
elements for use in high pull-down
applications.
TM

Ridgeback D-Force products

contain new longer life bearings,
heavy duty shirttails, and improved
abrasion resitant tungsten carbide
inserts for use in extremely abrasive
applications.
TM

D-Force

TM

Ridgeback
Blast Hole

I N N O VAT I O N A N D
EVOLUTION

INTRODUCING
RIDGEBACK MARATHON
AND RIDGEBACK
D-FORCE SERIES

Air
Passageways

TM

TM

Varel International is continually improving its

series of three cone drill bits designed for the
blasthole industry.
TM

TM

The Ridgeback Marathon and Ridgeback D-Force

series, incorporate the most advanced features
available today in air circulation rock bits.

Air Vent Holes

Main Roller
Bearing

RIDGEBACK
DESIGN
TECHNOLOGY

Carbide
Shirttail
Protection

Ball
Bearing
Pilot
Bearing

New advances in computer technology have

allowed Varel to develop proprietary rock bit
design software that enables design changes to
be introduced rapidly. This exclusive software aids
the engineer with bit design analysis and includes
such factors as drill operating parameters,
bit geometry and mine lithology.
By using this software, Varels engineers are able
to predict the effects of design modifications and
limit the risks associated with new product
development.

Thrust
Button

Thrust Faces
High Energy Tumbling

S E R I E S F E AT U R E S A N D
BENEFITS

RIDGEBACK

Advanced Bearing
Design

RIDGEBACK

M A R AT H O N

D-FORCE

All Ridgeback MarathonTM and

Ridgeback D-ForceTM rock bits
incorporate bearings designed to
minimize heating. The wear
elements feature advanced
materials to give the maximum
bearing life under a wide
variety of operating conditions.

Enhanced Cutter
Design The Ridgeback
TM
Marathon and Ridgeback
TM
D-Force design process provides
the highest penetration rates
and longest life available.

Improved Thrust
Capacity
Bearing thrust capacity is often
the limiting factor in bearing life.
Ridgeback MarathonTM bits feature
an improved thrust face design
which minimizes outward thrust
wear to prolong bearing life.

Maximum Gage
Protection SRT (Semi Round

High Energy Tumbling

TM

Top) tungsten carbide and welded

hardmetal provide superior wear
resistance to the shirttail area.
This Sidewinder feature is
particularly effective in
unstable/fractured formations
and also during collaring.

Precision manufactured inserts are

further processed for maximum toughness.
Varels HET TM - High Energy TumblingTM process
(patented) - gives the inserts a unique surface
toughness that extends bit life.

Innovation
Advantages
Longer bearing life
Back Flow Valves
BFVs are available for wet
conditions on both
Ridgeback MarathonTM and
Ridgeback D-ForceTM models.

Increased penetration
Added gage penetration
Reduced heat generation
Larger cuttings
Less dust

Vented Cones
Vented cones are standard in all
Ridgeback MarathonTM and
Ridgeback D-ForceTM series bits
9 and larger in diameter.
Vented cones allow a continuous
air flow throughout the bearings
to provide better cooling and
cleaning.
See page 20 for recommended
nozzle sizes when using bits
with vented cones.

S O F T F O R M AT I O N

INSERT BITS

All soft formation bits are designed with aggressive cutter

profiles to provide extremely high penetration rates.

RB30/DF30

series

COMPRESSIVE STRENGTHS:

2,000 - 10,000 (psi)

DRILLING SPEEDS:

70 to 120 rpm

JET CIRCULATION:

All sizes

DRILLING WEIGHTS:

2,000 to 4,000

(lbs/inch of bit diameter)

RB40/DF40

D-FORCE : For use in more abrasive formations

containing sand, silica, quartz, most ignious formations and most
gold bearing formations.

series

COMPRESSIVE STRENGTHS:

5,000 - 15,000 (psi)

DRILLING SPEEDS:

70 to 120 rpm

JET CIRCULATION:

All sizes

DRILLING WEIGHTS:

2,000 to 4,500

(lbs/inch of bit diameter)

DF43

APPLICATIONS:
MARATHON : For use in less abrasive formations such as
shales, limestones, carbonates, most metamorphic
formations and most copper bearing formations.

APPLICATIONS:
MARATHON : For use in less abrasive formations such as
shales, limestones, carbonates, most metamorphic
formations and most copper bearing formations.
D-FORCE : For use in more abrasive formations
containing sand, silica, quartz, most ignious formations and most
gold bearing formations.

series

COMPRESSIVE STRENGTHS:

8,500 - 23,500 (psi)

DRILLING SPEEDS:

70 to 120 rpm

JET CIRCULATION:

All sizes

DRILLING WEIGHTS:

2,000 to 5,000

APPLICATIONS:
D-FORCE : For use in more abrasive formations
containing sand, silica, quartz, most ignious formations and most
gold bearing formations.

(lbs/inch of bit diameter)

Cutting structures may vary from those shown where RB and DF series bits share the same series number (i.e. RB40/DF40).
The Ridgeback D-ForceTM series
includes many of our Ridgeback
MarathonTM features with additional
gage protection and a heavy duty
Sidewinder leg which is designed
for extremely abrasive
applications and drilling conditions
where difficult hole cleaning, or
extreme formations, require
maximum shirttail protection.

The Ridgeback MarathonTM series

contains new longer life bearings,
additional gage protection, and
improved cutting structure elements
for use in high pull-down
applications.

Ridgeback

D-Force
(Sidewinder)

M E D I U M F O R M AT I O N

INSERT BITS

Medium formation bits are most commonly used in the mining industry,
and provide long bearing life with additional insert strength for consolidated formations.

RB50

series

STRENGTHS:

10,000 - 30,000 (psi)

DRILLING SPEEDS:

70 to 120 rpm

JET CIRCULATION:

All sizes

DRILLING WEIGHTS:

2,500 to 5,000

APPLICATIONS:
MARATHON : For use in less abrasive formations such as
shales, limestones, carbonates, most metamorphic
formations and most copper bearing formations.

(lbs/inch of bit diameter)

RB53/DF53

series

COMPRESSIVE STRENGTHS:

15,000 - 35,000 (psi)

DRILLING SPEEDS:

70 to 120 rpm

JET CIRCULATION:

All sizes

DRILLING WEIGHTS:

2,500 to 5,000

D-FORCE : For use in more abrasive formations

containing sand, silica, quartz, most ignious formations most
gold bearing formations.

(lbs/inch of bit diameter)

RB60/DF60

APPLICATIONS:
MARATHON : For use in less abrasive formations such as
shales, limestones, carbonates, most metamorphic
formations and most copper bearing formations.

series

COMPRESSIVE STRENGTHS:

25,000 - 45,000 (psi)

DRILLING SPEEDS:

60 to 100 rpm

JET CIRCULATION:

All sizes

DRILLING WEIGHTS:

3,000 to 6,000

(lbs/inch of bit diameter)

APPLICATIONS:
MARATHON : For use in less abrasive formations such as
shales, limestones, carbonates, most metamorphic
formations and most copper bearing formations.
D-FORCE : For use in more abrasive formations
containing sand, silica, quartz, most ignious formations most
gold bearing formations.

Cutting structures may vary from those shown where RB and DF series bits share the same series number (i.e. RB40/DF40).
The Ridgeback D-Force series
includes many of our Ridgeback
Marathon features with additional
gage protection and a heavy duty
Sidewinder leg which is designed
for extremely abrasive
applications and drilling conditions
where difficult hole cleaning, or
extreme formations, require
maximum shirttail protection.

The Ridgeback MarathonTM series

contains new longer life bearings,
additional gage protection, and
improved cutting structure elements
for use in high pull-down
applications.

Ridgeback

D-Force
(Sidewinder)

MEDIUM HARD

INSERT BITS

F O R M AT I O N
All medium hard formation bits are designed with aggressive
cutter profiles to provide extremely high penetration rates
when higher pulldown is needed.

RB63/DF63

series

COMPRESSIVE STRENGTHS:

27,500 - 47,500 (psi)

DRILLING SPEEDS:

60 to 100 rpm

JET CIRCULATION:

All sizes

DRILLING WEIGHTS:

3,000 to 6,000

APPLICATIONS:
MARATHON : For use in less abrasive formations such as
shales, limestones, carbonates, most metamorphic
formations and most copper bearing formations.

(lbs/inch of bit diameter)

RB67/DF67

series

COMPRESSIVE STRENGTHS:

30,000 - 50,000 (psi)

DRILLING SPEEDS:

60 to 100 rpm

JET CIRCULATION:

All sizes

DRILLING WEIGHTS:

3,000 to 6,500

(lbs/inch of bit diameter)

APPLICATIONS:
MARATHON : For use in less abrasive formations such as
shales, limestones, carbonates, most metamorphic
formations and most copper bearing formations.
D-FORCE : For use in more abrasive formations
containing sand, silica, quartz, most ignious formations most
gold bearing formations.

Cutting structures may vary from those shown where RB and DF series bits share the same series number (i.e. RB40/DF40).

The Ridgeback D-ForceTM series

includes many of our Ridgeback
MarathonTM features with additional
gage protection and a heavy duty
Sidewinder leg which is designed
for extremely abrasive
applications and drilling conditions
where difficult hole cleaning, or
extreme formations, require
maximum shirttail protection.

The Ridgeback MarathonTM series

contains new longer life bearings,
additional gage protection, and
improved cutting structure elements
for use in high pull-down
applications.

Ridgeback

D-Force
(Sidewinder)

H A R D / V E RY H A R D

INSERT BITS

F O R M AT I O N
All hard formation bits are designed with tough low
extension cutter profiles to provide maximum durability
in hard formations.

RB70/DF70

series

STRENGTHS:

35,000 - 60,000 (psi)

DRILLING SPEEDS:

50 to 90 rpm

JET CIRCULATION:

All sizes

DRILLING WEIGHTS:

4,000 to 7,500

(lbs/inch of bit diameter)

RB80G

APPLICATIONS:
MARATHON : For use in less abrasive formations such as
shales, limestones, carbonates, most metamorphic
formations and most copper bearing formations.
D-FORCE : For use in more abrasive formations
containing sand, silica, quartz, most ignious formations most
gold bearing formations.

series

COMPRESSIVE STRENGTHS:

50,000 (psi) and Higher

DRILLING SPEEDS:

40 to 70 rpm

JET CIRCULATION:

All sizes

DRILLING WEIGHTS:

5,000 to 8,000

APPLICATIONS:
MARATHON : For use in less abrasive formations such as
shales, limestones, carbonates, most metamorphic
formations and most copper bearing formations.

(lbs/inch of bit diameter)

Cutting structures may vary from those shown where RB and DF series bits share the same series number (i.e. RB40/DF40).

The Ridgeback D-ForceTM series

includes many of our Ridgeback
MarathonTM features with additional
gage protection and a heavy duty
Sidewinder leg which is designed
for extremely abrasive
applications and drilling conditions
where difficult hole cleaning, or
extreme formations, require
maximum shirttail protection.

The Ridgeback MarathonTM series

contains new longer life bearings,
additional gage protection, and
improved cutting structure elements
for use in high pull-down
applications.

Ridgeback

D-Force
(Sidewinder)

INSERT BIT PRODUCT LINE

RIDGEBACK
Diameter

TM

MEDIUM > HARD

SOFT > MEDIUM

1

Inches

mm

6 1/4

159

6 3/4

171

RB40

7 3/8

187

RB40

RB50

7 7/8

200

RB40

RB50

8 1/2

216

229

RB30

RB40

9 7/8

251

RB30

RB40

10 5/8

270

11

280

12 1/4

311

13 3/4

349

16

406.4

PRODUCT LINE

HARD > VERY HARD

3

RB53

RB30

RB60

RB50

RB70

RB50
RB53

RB60

RB63
RB67

RB40

RB40

RB43
RB50
RB43

RB43

mm

6 3/4

159

7 7/8

200

229

9 7/8

251

DF30

DF40

10 5/8

270

DF30

DF40

11

280

12 1/4

311

16

406.4

DF20

DF30

DF40

kg

3 1/2

42

19

3 1/2

46

21

3 1/2

58

26

4 1/2

76

35

4 1/2

83

38

4 1/2

96

43

6 5/8

145

66

RB60

RB63

RB67

RB53

RB60

RB63

RB67

6 5/8

157

72

RB53

RB60

RB67

6 5/8

193

88

RB53

RB60

6 5/8

225

102

RB53

RB60

6 5/8

292

134

7 BECO

580

264

RB63

RB67

RB80G

RB70

RB80G

RB67

TM

PRODUCT LINE

MEDIUM > HARD

5

lbs

RB53

DF43
SOFT > MDIUM

Inches

Inches

RB60

RB60*

Diameter

Approx Wt

RB53

D-FORCE

DF43

DF60

DF43

DF60

DF70

HARD > VERY HARD

3

DF70

DF63

DF60

DF53

DF57

Pin Size

Approx Wt

Inches

lbs

kg

3 1/2

42

19

4 1/2

76

35

4 1/2

96

43

6 5/8

145

66

DF60

DF63

DF67

DF60

DF63

DF67

6 5/8

157

72

DF60

DF63

DF67

6 5/8

193

88

DF60

DF63

DF67

6 5/8

225

102

DF67*

7 BECO

580

264

DF70

*With 7" BECO pin

The above product range represents the bits which were available when
this catalogue was published. Varel is continually expanding and
developing its range of products. For an updated availability list,
please contact a Varel sales representative/agent, or consult our
Web site at -WWW.VARELINTL.COM

10

Pin Size

INDUSTRIAL BIT PRODUCT LINE

TUNGSTEN CARBIDE INDUSTRIAL BITS

Diameter

SOFT

Inches

mm

2 15/16 - 3

75-76

3 7/8

98

101

4 1/4

108

4 1/2

114

4 3/4

121

4 7/8

123

5 1/8

130

QMC9

5 5/8

143

5 7/8

MEDIUM
3

HARD
3

Pin Size
3

Approx Wt
lbs

kg

N Rod

3.6

DWH

2 3/8

10

4.5

DWH

2 3/8

11

4.75

DW7

2 3/8

12

5.5

DW7

2 3/8

13

5.8

DW7 QMC7

2 7/8

15

6.8

QMC7

2 7/8

16

7.1

DW7 QMC7

2 7/8

17

7.7

DW9

DW7 QMC7

3 1/2

27

12.2

149

DW9

DW7

3 1/2

28

12.7

152

DW9

DW7

3 1/2

35

15.9

6 1/4

159

QMC7

3 1/2

36

16.3

DW7
DW531

DW532

DW9

DW53ET

QMC53ET

M60

Please note that all QMC series products may be slightly oversize.
All DW series products are made strictly to API tolerance standards.

DW9

DW53ET

DW7

DWH

11

M I N E R A L E X P L O R AT I O N B I T S
Varel has developed a range of reverse circulation bits with various bearing
packages. These bits are suitable for soft/medium formation drilling and
have:
Open non-sealed roller bearings.
Fully sealed compensated journal bearings.

EXPLORATION BITS
BIT AVAILABILITY

Bit
Diameter

Type

Varel provides a range of products for reverse circulation applications. These bits
are developed to provide exceptional performance in a wide variety of formations
typically encountered during mineral exploration. The center hole is the maximum
diameter possible for superior hole cleaning and cuttings retrieval. All RX and RC
bits are precision machined to work with most existing R/C systems.

5 1/8"

DW53ET

MEDIUM

OPEN

5 1/4"

RX53

MEDIUM

OPEN

5 3/8"

RX53

MEDIUM

OPEN

5 1/2"

RX53

MEDIUM

OPEN

Products featuring both sealed and open bearings are available. Varel fullysealed
bearing products for reverse circulation applications feature fully pressure
compensated, non serviceable lubrication supplied to the industrys most
sophisticated journal bearing. The bearing features hardmetal inlays on all contact
surfaces with silver-plated cone bearings, specially formulated seal compounds, and
high-temperature lubricant. The bearings and seals are developed for long life.

3 7/8"

CH24

SOFT

SEALED*

4 3/4"

CH24

SOFT

SEALED*

4 3/4"

CH35

MEDIUM

SEALED*

4 3/4"

ETD48

HARD

SEALED*

5"

RC537

MEDIUM

SEALED*

5 1/8"

RC537

MEDIUM

SEALED*

5 1/4"

RC537

MEDIUM

SEALED*

5 3/8"

RC537

MEDIUM

SEALED*

5 1/2"

RC537

MEDIUM

SEALED*

5 5/8"

CH34

MEDIUM

SEALED*

5 3/4"

CH34

MEDIUM

SEALED*

5 7/8"

CM34

MEDIUM

SEALED*

O p e n b e a r i n g p r o d u c t s f e a t u r e p r e c i s i o n r o l l e r bearings with special

thrust elements to prevent axial wear. The cones are retained by ball bearings and
the pilot pin features hardmetal inlays against a tool steel bushing.
Regardless of bearing type, the cutting structures on all reverse c i r c u l a t i o n
p r o d u c t s a r e d e s i g n e d t o p r o v i d e a combination of fast penetration and
durability. These bits consistently provide the lowest cost per foot of drilled hole in
mineral exploration applications.

Formation

Bearing

6"

CM34

MEDIUM

SEALED*

6 1/8"

CM34

MEDIUM

SEALED*

6 1/4"

CM34

MEDIUM

SEALED*

6 1/2"

ETD34

MEDIUM

SEALED*

6 3/4"

V537

MEDIUM

SEALED*

* Fully sealed bearing with compensator

system.

Our availability chart lists the most popular

diameters and cutting structures we
currently manufacture for reverse
circulation applications.
Other cutting structures and diameters
may be available upon request.

5 1/2 - RC537

12

STEEL TOOTH BIT PRODUCT LINE

Diameter
Inches mm

SOFT
1

MEDIUM
3

HARD
3

Pin Size
3

Approx Wt
lbs
kg

2 7/8

73

LH1

N Rod

1.8

2 15/16

75

LH1

N Rod

1.8

3 1/4

79-82

N Rod

4 1/4

1.9

2 3/8

4.1

2 3/8

4.1

2 3/8

4.1

2 3/8

10

4.5

2 3/8

11

2 7/8

11

LH1

2 7/8

16

7.3

LH1

L2

3 1/2-3 5/8 89-92

3 3/4

L1

LH1

L2

95

L2

3 7/8-4 1/8 98-105

4 1/4

108

L2

4 1/2

114

L2

4 5/8

117

L2

4 3/4

121

L2

4 7/8

123

127

5 1/8

130

5 1/4

L1

LH1
LH1

L1

L2

2 7/8

16

7.3

L2

2 7/8

16

7.3

L2

2 7/8

17

133

L2

2 7/8

17

5 3/8

136

L2

2 7/8

17

5 1/2

140

L2

2 7/8

22

10

5 5/8

143

L2

3 1/2

22

10

5 3/4

146

L2

3 1/2

22

10

5 7/8

149

L2

3 1/2

22

10

152

L2

3 1/2

26

11.8

6 1/8

156

L2

3 1/2

26

11.8

6 1/4

159

L2

3 1/2

29

13.2

6 1/2

165

L2

3 1/2

29

13.2

6 5/8

168

L2

3 1/2

33

15

6 3/4

171

L2

3 1/2

33

15

7 7/8

200

L2

4 1/2

62

28

8 1/2

216

L2

4 1/2

83

38

12 1/4

311

L121*

6 5/8

200

91

13 3/4

349

L121*

6 5/8

292

133

14 3/4

375

L111*

7 5/8

345

157

15

381

L111*

7 5/8

345

157

16

406

L111*

7 5/8

390

178

17 1/2

445

L111*

7 5/8

450

204

20

508

L111*

7 5/8

647

293

21-22

533

L111*

7 5/8

860

391

23-24

584

L111*

7 5/8

891

404

26

660

L111*

7 5/8

1300

589

27 1/2

698

L111*

7 5/8 or 8 5/8

1300

589

28

711

L113*

7 5/8 or 8 5/8

1420

645

34

863

L3A

7 5/8 or 8 5/8

2200

1000

V3M0
V3S0

L211*

L1

36

914

L3A

7 5/8 or 8 5/8

2400

1100

38 1/4

1001

L3A

7 5/8 or 8 5/8

3850

1746

44

1118

L111A

7 5/8 or 8 5/8

6000

2722

* JET BITS
The above chart represents commonly available sizes and types. Varel International does produce other sizes and
types of rock bits which do not appear on this list. Please consult your local representative or visit our Web site.
WWW.VARELINTL.COM
If you have custom requirements for a specific application, please contact your local sales representative/agent.

13

S O F T F O R M AT I O N

STEEL TOOTH BITS

Varels soft formation steel tooth bits have long

aggressive forged teeth with maximum offset to give high penetration rates.

L111
COMPRESSIVE STRENGTHS:
DRILLING SPEEDS:
JET CIRCULATION:
DRILLING WEIGHTS:
(lbs/inch of bit diameter)
GAGE TYPES:

500 to 3,000 (psi)

60 to 150 rpm
all sizes
2,000 to 5,000
A Tooth

FORMATIONS: Soft limestones, soft clays, red beds, soft shales, shells
and other formations with relatively low compressive strengths.

FEATURES: Long, slim, widely spaced teeth. All teeth are hard faced.
Skewed cone action for high penetration rates.

L111

L121
COMPRESSIVE STRENGTHS:
DRILLING SPEEDS:
JET CIRCULATION:
DRILLING WEIGHTS:
(lbs/inch of bit diameter)
GAGE TYPES:

500 to 3,500 (psi)

60 to 150 rpm
all sizes
2,000 to 5,500
A Tooth

FORMATIONS: Soft limestones, soft clays, red beds, soft shales, shells
and other formations with relatively low compressive strengths.
FEATURES: Long, slim, widely spaced teeth with additional hard facing.
Skewed cone action for high penetration rates.

L121

V3MO
COMPRESSIVE STRENGTHS:
DRILLING SPEEDS:
JET CIRCULATION:
DRILLING WEIGHTS:
(lbs/inch of bit diameter)
GAGE TYPES:

1,000 to 5,000 (psi)

50 to 100 rpm
5 1/8 and larger
2,000 to 5,000
A Tooth

FORMATIONS: Engineered for rugged drilling in a wide variety

of formations.

FEATURES: All teeth are hard faced with extra heavy deposits of tungsten carbide for long life. Additional gage hard metal assures more protection for the
shirttails. Spacing and angle of teeth allow for durability and long life.

V3M0

14

STEEL TOOTH BITS

MEDIUM & HARD

F O R M AT I O N

Medium series bits have A or T teeth for wear resistance.

Hard formation bits have L or T shaped heel row teeth for hard formations,
double T heel row teeth for hard and abrasive formations.

L2
COMPRESSIVE STRENGTHS:
DRILLING SPEEDS:
ALL REGULAR CIRCULATION:
DRILLING WEIGHTS:
(lbs/inch of bit diameter)
GAGE TYPES;

4,000 to 10,000 (psi)

35 to 85 rpm
2 7/8 and larger
3,000 to 6,000
A Tooth

FORMATIONS: Wide range of medium formations such as altered

limestones, shales, anhydrite and other formations with medium compressive
strengths.

FEATURES: Moderately skewed cone design. Teeth hard-faced on one

flank to resist abrasion. Vented A type gage gives high rates of penetration.

L2

L1
COMPRESSIVE STRENGTHS:
DRILLING SPEEDS:
REGULAR CIRCULATION:
DRILLING WEIGHTS:
(lbs/inch of bit diameter)
GAGE TYPES:

8,000 - 18,000 (psi)

35 to 75 rpm
All sizes
3,500 to 6,500
A Tooth

FORMATIONS: Specifically designed for fast penetration in formations

that are hard, but not particularly abrasive.

FEATURES: Designed to conform to latest drilling techniques requiring

heavier weights. Similar in design to the LH1, but does not have webbed heel row.

L1

LH1
COMPRESSIVE STRENGTHS:
DRILLING SPEEDS:
REGULAR CIRCULATION:
DRILLING WEIGHTS:
(lbs/inch of bit diameter)
GAGE TYPES:

9,000 - 20,000 (psi)

30 to 65 rpm
All sizes
3,500 to 7,000
Double T

FORMATIONS: Hard formations such as pyrite, chert,dolomites,

granite porphyry and other formations which have high compressive strengths and are
abrasive.

FEATURES: Closely spaced, strong short teeth for maximum crushing and
chipping.

LH1

15

F E AT U R E S

Whether you are using air, water, foam or mud for

circulation purposes, Varel has a full range of bits
suitable for your needs.

Regular Center Fluid Circulation

Regular Air Circulation

Jet Circulation Fluid or Air

Varel regular circulation bits provide

efficient circulation of fluid through the
center of the bit to clean the teeth and the
bottom of the hole. Available in full
opening or three drilled hole courses.

Varel air blast circulation bits provide a

balanced supply of air to the bearings for
cooling. A balanced supply of air also is
directed to clean the cutters and the
bottom of the hole. Back flow valve is
available with this design.

Varel jet circulation bits are engineered for

use with high pressure fluid or air. The
precision nozzles direct the velocity of
the fluid or air at the bottom of the hole
for efficient cleaning.

Optional Features
1. Jet Circulation: Specify air or fluid circulation.
2. Regular (center) Circulation: Specify fluid or air circulation and,
full hole or orifice plate.
3. Reverse Circulation: Precision machined to customer specifications.
4. BECO Pin thread connection.

Forged Teeth, unique to Varel

Varel pioneered the research and
development of forged teeth for steel
tooth rotary cone bits. This technique,
illustrated in the chemically etched
section above, is a recognized advance
in metallurgical design, resulting in
stronger, uniformly compressed and
unbroken flow lines in bit teeth.
These stronger teeth produce longer bit
life and faster penetration.

16

SEALED BEARING PILOT HOLE BITS

Premium Sealed Bearing Pilot Hole Bits

CURRENT
PILOT BIT
AVAILABILITY

Varel Internationals oilfield and mining experience

provides a selection of sealed bearing journal bits
designed for drilling the most demanding raise bore
pilot holes, blind bore pilot holes, and underground
drill and blast holes.
Each bit is designed with a premium sealed bearing
system including a pressure compensator. The
premium bearing package features advanced
metallurgy with frictional elements silver-plated to
reduce frictional heat generation and provide
resistance to galling under high loads. O-ring seals
made from a proprietary HSN elastomer provide
extremely long seal life.
The PH80 series features blunt dome-shaped inserts
to provide a durable cutting structure for maximum
crushing and chipping action while minimizing
wear. Varels PH60 bits utilize conical and/or chisel
shaped inserts for increased penetration rates in
softer formations. Extra hardmetal and carbide
inserts are installed in the surface of the shirttail to
provide superior seal protection.

Bit Sizes

Bit Type

15"

PHR80*

13 3/4"

PH80

12 1/4"

PHR80* - PH80

11"

PH60 - PH80

9"

PH80

* Sealed roller bearing bit for Boxhole applications.

All Varel premium pilot bits incorporate specially
formulated highly saturated nitrile elastomers and
high temperature lubricants.
(New diameters and models are under development.
Please consult your nearest representative.)

12 1/4 - PH80

17

CONVERSION TABLE
DEPTH

WEIGHT ON BIT

NOZZLE SIZE

VOLUME

CIRCULATION RATE

ANNULAR VELOCITY

PRESSURE

MUD WEIGHT (density)

TORQUE

AREA

18

TO CONVERT

INTO

MULTIPLY BY

feet

meters

0.3048

metres

feet

3.2808

inches

millimeters

25.4

millimeters

inches

0.0394

pounds

decanewtons

0.4448

decanewtons

tonne (metric)

2.2481

tonne

pounds

0.0004536

pounds

kilograms

0.4536

kilograms

pounds

2.205

32nds

millimeters

0.7938

millimeters

32nds

1.2598

barrels

cubic meters

0.1590

cubic meters

barrels

6.290

U.S. gallons

cubic meters

0.003785

cubic meters

U.S. gallons

264.2

U.S. gallons

liters

3.7854

liters

U.S. gallons

0.2642

42

barrels/min

gallons/min

gallons/min

barrels/min

0.02381

gallons/min

liters/min

3.7854

liters/min

gallons/min

0.2642

feet/min

meters/min

0.3048

meters/min

feet/min

3.2808

psi

kilopascals

6.8947

kilopascals

psi

0.14504

psi

megapscals

0.006895

megapascals

psi

145.038

psi

atm

0.06804

atm

psi

14.696

psi

bars

0.06895

bars

psi

14.5038

psi

kilogram/sq cm

0.07031

kilogram/sq cm

psi

14.2233

pound/gallon

kilogram/cubic meter

119.829

kilogram/cubic meter

pound/gallon

0.008345

pound/gallon

specific gravity

0.119829

specific gravity

pound gallon

8.3452

pound/gallon

psi/1000 ft

51.948

psi/100 ft

pound gallon

0.01923

foot pound

newton meters

1.3558

newton meters

foot pound

0.7376

square inches

square millimeters

645.16

square millimeters

square inches

0.00155

CHARTS FOR MAXIMUM BIT LIFE

VAREL INSERT BIT COMPARISON AND HARDNESS TABLE

2500

5000

7500 10000 12500 15000 17500 20000 22500 25000 27500 30000 32500 35000 37500 40000 42500 45000 47500 50000 52500 55000 57500 60000 62500 65000 67500 70000

MPA
PTO

17.2
2.5

34.5
4

51.7
6

69.0
7

86.2
8

FORMATION

SCHIST (SOFT)

SANDSTONE
(SOFT)

LIMESTONE
(SOFT)

LIMESTONE
(HARD)

CONGLOMERATE

REPRESENTATIVE ROCK COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH in psi / mpa / protodjakonov scales

PSI

S
O
F
T

QUARTZITE
(HARD)

BASALT (HARD)

DIABASE
(DOLERITE)

AMPHIBOLITE

GRANITE

GABBRO

GNEISS
(AVERAGE)

SLATE

QUARTZITE
(SOFT)

DIORITE

SANDSTONE
(HARD)

103.4 120.7 137.9 155.1 172.4 189.6 206.8 224.1 241.3 258.6 275.8 293.0 310.3 327.5 344.7 362.0 379.2 396.5 413.7 430.9 448.2 465.4 482.6
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
18
19
20
21
22
23
23
24

30
40

Varel
Ridgeback Marathon
Ridgeback D-Force
Series Insert Bits

43

M
E
D
I
U
M

TM

TM

50
53
60
63

H
A
R
D

67
70
80

VAREL STEEL TOOTH BIT COMPARISON AND HARDNESS TABLE

2000

3000

4000

5000

6000

7000

8000

9000 10000 11000 12000 13000 14000 15000 16000 17000 18000 19000

MPA

6.9

13.8

20.7

27.6

34.5

41.4

48.3

55.2

62.1

82.7

89.6

96.5

PTO

TUFF

SANDSTONE
(SOFT)

LIMESTONE
(SOFT)

BASALT (SOFT)

LIMESTONE
(HARD)

CONGLOMERATE

DOLOMITE

SHALE (SOFT)

S
O
F
T

M
E
D
I
U
M
H
A
R
D

10

10

11

11

12

DIORITE

SCHIST (HARD)

103.4 110.3 117.2 124.1 131.0

MARBLE

75.8

ANDESITE

69.0

SANDSTONE
(HARD)

FORMATION

1000

SCHIST (SOFT)

REPRESENTATIVE ROCK COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH in psi / mpa / protodjakonov scales

PSI

L111
V3MO

Varel
Steel Tooth
Bits

L2

L1
LH1

19

U S E F U L O P E R AT I O N A L D ATA
Tips for optimizing drill bit performance

Nozzle Hole Area Chart

Hole Size
in.

mm

Area/1 Hole
Sq. in. mm

Area/3 Holes

Sq. in.

mm

1/4

6.35

.049

31.62

.147

94.84

9/32

7.14

.062

40.00

.186

120.01

5/16

7.93

.076

49.04

.228

147.11

11/32

8.73

.093

60.00

.279

180.01

3/8

9.52

.110

70.97

.330

219.92

13/32

10.31

.130

83.88

.390

251.63

7/16

11.11

.150

96.78

.450

290.34

15/32

11.90

.172

110.97

.516

332.92

1/2

12.70

.196

126.46

.588

379.38

17/32

13.49

.222

143.23

.666

429.70

9/16

14.28

.248

160.01

.745

480.67

5/8

15.87

.306

197.43

.918

592.29

11/16

17.46

.372

240.01

1.116

720.04

3/4

19.05

.442

285.18

1.326

855.54

7/8

22.22

.601

387.77

1.803

1163.30

25.40

.785

506.48

2.355

1519.45

1 1/8

28.57

.993

640.68

2.985

1925.92

1 1/4

31.75

1.228

792.31

3.684

2376.92

Nozzle Size Adjustment

For Vented Cones
Non-vented
nozzle size
(one)

Nozzle size for

vented cones (one)
Bit size
9"

Bit size
9 7/8" - 13 3/4"

1/2"

7/16"

7/16"

9/16"

1/2"

1/2"

5/8"

9/16"

9/16"

11/16"

5/8"

5/8"

3/4" Chart
3/4" Hole Area
Nozzle

11/16"

2. When purchasing a new drill specify compressors with adequate capacity. Dont
forget the altitude factor when sizing the compressor. Often 7,000 to 10,000
linear feet per minute in return air velocity is required to properly clean the hole,
particularly with heavier or larger cuttings.
3. Inspect the rock bit after each hole and record the condition of the rock bit at
regular intervals.
4. Hot cones may indicate obstruction of the air passage to the bearings.
5. Pressure gage increases may indicate air passages are plugging.
6. An increase in air pressure may indicate unwanted restrictions in the air system.
A decrease in air pressure may indicate leakage in the air system.
7. Accidental dropping of the bit and drill string can damage bearings and/or cones.
8. The I.D. (inside diameter) of the pin and box connections of the drill string
should be the same as or larger than the I.D. of the pin on the rock bit. This will
reduce the pressure drop loss across the drill string to the lowest possible psi.
9. Avoid early bit failures by refraining from using bent drill steel and excessively
worn drill steel, stabilizers, deck bushings or shock subs.
10. When making up the rock bit use slow rotation and ensure that the drill string
and rock bit mate properly shoulder to shoulder. Monitor the process carefully in
order to avoid cross threading.
11. Use proper tool joint lubrication to maintain connections.
12. Use only the minimum amount of water required to suppress the dust.
13. Use the factory recommended weight and rotation speeds to accommodate the
formations being drilled.
14. Rotary speed should be decreased as down pressure is increased and down
pressure decreased as rotary speed is increased.
15. Accurate information is valuable knowledge. Always record footage drilled, time
in the hole, rpm, weight on bit, psi, formation drilled and any unusual drilling
conditions. (Water in the hole, broken formations, etc.)
16. Form drilling process improvement teams with your key suppliers. Establish
improvement goals and measure progress.

Total Drilling Cost

TDC

= B + R
F
P

TDC

= Total drilling cost per foot or meter drilled

13/16"

13/16"

3/4"

7/8"

7/8"

13/16"

15/16"

15/16"

7/8"

= Total bit price

1"

1"

15/16"

= Operating cost per hour for the drill rig expressed in dollars per hour

= Total life of the rock bit expressed in either feet or meters

= Penetration rate of the rock bit expressed as feet or meters per hour

Unique feature at Varel International

are vented cones.
Bits with vented cones have significantly more
airflow through the bearings than standard bits.
The nozzle size should be reduced in order to
maintain suitable back pressure for proper cooling
and cleaning. This chart gives the proper nozzle
sizes to use with bits with vented cones.

20

1. Keep rotating the bit, and turn on the air before the bit touches the ground,
and keep the air on until the bit is out of the hole. If the bit is to stay in the
hole while adding drill steel, blow the hole clean for 60 seconds prior to turning
off the air.

U S E F U L O P E R AT I O N A L D ATA

BIT AIR PRESSURE DROP CHART

Bit Size
Range
in.

Full
Air
Course
Diameter

Jet
Nozzle
Diameter
3 Each

mm in.

mm

in.

1/2
5/8
3/4
7/8
1
3/4
7/8
1
1 1/8
5/8
3/4
7/8
1
1 1/8

12.70
15.87
19.05
22.22
25.40
19.05
22.22
25.40
28.57
15.87
19.05
22.22
25.40
28.57

3/4
7/8
1
10 5/8 270 1 1/8
to
1 3/8
17 1/2 445 1 1/2
2

19.05
22.22
25.40
28.57
34.92
38.10
50.80

5/16
3/8
7/16
1/2
9/16
7/16
1/2
9/16
5/8
3/8
7/16
1/2
9/16
5/8
3/4
7/16
1/2
9/16
5/8
3/4
7/8
1 1/8

5 3/8 137
to
6 3/4 171

7 3/8 187
to
7 7/8 200

9
229
to
9 7/8 251

Air Pressure Drop (pounds per square inch) Bits with various air course diameters or jet nozzle sizes
Air Volume Delivered
Cubic Feet Per Minute

mm 400 500

600

700

800 900 1000 1100 1200 1300 1400 1500 1600 1700 1800 1900 2000 2100 2200 2300 2400 2600 2800 3000

45
36
30
26
21
24

65
54
44
36
32
38
30
23

75
64
51
44
37
45
36
29
24
57
45
36
29
22

84
72
60
51
44
52
42
35
29
65
53
42
35
28

28
21

33
26
22

7.93
9.52
11.11
12.70
14.28
11.11
12.70
14.28
15.87
9.52
11.11
12.70
14.28
15.87
19.05
11.11
12.70
14.28
15.87
19.05
22.22
28.57

29
22

55
46
37
32
26
31
24

39
30
24

49
38
30
23

22

81
68
57
50
58
48
40
34
73
61
48
41
35
22
38
30
26
22

76
64
54
66
54
46
39
80
68
56
46
39
25
44
36
30
25

82
70
59
72
62
52
44
75
63
52
44
29
49
41
34
28

76
65
78
70
58
50
82
69
57
49
34
55
46
37
30
22

82
70
84
79
64
55

76

82

87
70
60

76
65

83
71

74
62
52
39
61
50
41
34
25
20

80
67
56
43
66
55
45
37
28
22

71
61
46
72
59
49
41
31
24

76
65
50
78
63
53
45
34
26

76

82

81
69
53

73
57

77
60

81
64

68
58
49
37
28

73
62
52
40
30

78
66
56
43
31

70
60
45
33

67

71

74

78

82

75
64
48
36
20

67
51
38
22

71
54
40
28

75
57
43
30

60
45
30

64
47
32

68
50
34

In addition to adequate return air velocities, the pressure drop across the bit must be controlled to obtain the optimum bearing life.
Pressure drop across the bit should be maintained in excess of 30 psi. Two (2) to ten (10) psi should be added for losses in the system
ahead of the bit. For optimum bit life nozzles should be selected to hold pressure near the maximum allowable on the compressor.

Helpful Hole Cleaning Information

For the most effective hole cleaning a minimum bailing velocity of 6000 feet per minute is considered desirable.
This volume is calculated for the most common bit and pipe sizes. For dense materials, this volume should be increased
in order to yield optimum cleaning efficiency.
The simple formula Q=AV can be applied to determine the volume flow of air (Q) necessary to give the desired velocity (V). (A) is
the area of the hole through which the cuttings-laden air flows. This area is the area of the hole less the area filled by the drill
pipe.

Bailing velocity
BV

BV
ACFM
183.3
D
d

=
=
=
=
=

183.3 x ACFM
D 2 _ d2
Bailing velocity(feet per minute)
Actual cubic feet of free air per minute delivered
Factor for conversion
Diameter of the hole being drilled. (inches)
Outside diameter of the drill pipe being utilized. (inches)

21

SALES

OFFICES

WORLDWIDE:

VAREL INTERNATIONAL
CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS
1625 West Crosby, Suite 124, Carrollton, Texas 75006
U.S.A.
Mailing address:
P.O. Box 540157, Dallas, Texas 75354-0157
Phone: +1-800-827-3526 / +1-972-242-1160
Fax: +1-972-242-8770
Email: customerservice@varelintl.com
Watts: 1-800-VARELCO (827-3526)
MEXICO
VAREL DE MEXICO, S.A DE C.V.
3a. Y Michoacan #310 Sur
Fraccionamiento Moderno,
H. Matamoros
Tamaulipas, Mexico
C.P. 87380
Phone: +52-868-8170467
Fax:
+52-868-8172106
Email: JSarachaga@Varelintl.com

SOUTH AMERICA
VAREL INTERNATIONAL Ind. L.P. Sucursal del Peru
Las Poncianas 105/107, La Molina Vieja
Lima 12, Peru
Phones: +51-1-365-2529 / 365-5178
Fax:
+51-1-365-8305
Cellular: +51-1-9999-60283-989 164305-989 164302
Email: Servicioalcliente@Varelintl.com
Email: VCobena@Varelintl.com

ASIA-PACIFIC
VAREL INTERNATIONAL (Australia Pty Ltd)
Riseley Corporate Centre
Suite 31, 135, Riseley Street
Booragoon, WA 6154
Australia.
Phone: +61-8-9315-9999
Fax:
+61-8-9315-9800
Email: varelaustralia@varelintl.com

7234 - 012011

C E R T I F I E D

Visit us at WWW.VARELINTL.COM