RIDGEBACK RIDGEBACK

MARATHON D-FORCE

INNOVATION HAS NO LIMITS

Proud to be a Miner
TABLE OF CONTENTS

A Brief
Introduction 1-2

Ridgeback Marathon TM
and
Ridgeback D-Force TM
Comparison 3

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 our employees for their dedication and innovation.

A re accountable to our stakeholders.

R eliably provide products and service.

E thically interact with our customers, competitors, vendors and community.

L ead in generating value for our customers.

1
 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.

2
 TM TM

Marathon & D-Force Backed by years of field-proven technology and expertise, Varel has become
- feature comparison 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 HET carbide

treatment treatment

Vented cones
Vented cones

Tougher
carbide grades
Increased
Tough & wear hole wall
resistant clearance
cutting structure
New SP1 advanced
bearing design
New SP1 advanced
bearing design
New abrasion
resistant
Ridgeback carbide grades

Sidewinder
shirttail/gage
protection

Ridgeback Marathon products

TM
Ridgeback D-Force products
TM

contain new longer life bearings, contain new longer life bearings,
additional gage protection, and heavy duty shirttails, and improved
improved cutting structure abrasion resitant tungsten carbide
elements for use in high pull-down inserts for use in extremely abrasive
applications. applications.

Ridgeback
TM

D-Force Blast Hole

3
 I N N O VAT I O N A N D
EVOLUTION

INTRODUCING Air
TM Passageways
RIDGEBACK MARATHON
AND RIDGEBACK
TM

D-FORCE SERIES

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
Air Vent Holes
available today in air circulation rock bits.

Main Roller
Bearing
Carbide
RIDGEBACK Shirttail
Ball
DESIGN Protection
Bearing
TECHNOLOGY
Pilot
New advances in computer technology have Bearing
allowed Varel to develop proprietary rock bit
design software that enables design changes to Thrust
Button
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 Thrust Faces
development. High Energy Tumbling

4
 S E R I E S F E AT U R E S A N D
Advanced Bearing
Design
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.
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.
High Energy Tumbling
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.
Back Flow Valves
BFVs are available for wet
conditions on both
Ridgeback MarathonTM and
Ridgeback D-ForceTM models.
BENEFITS
RIDGEBACK RIDGEBACK
M A R AT H O N D-FORCE
Enhanced Cutter
Design The Ridgeback
TM
Marathon and Ridgeback
TM
D-Force design process provides
the highest penetration rates
and longest life available.
Maximum Gage
Protection SRT (Semi Round
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.
Innovation
Advantages
Vented Cones
Longer bearing life
Vented cones are standard in all
Ridgeback MarathonTM and
Increased penetration
Ridgeback D-ForceTM series bits
Added gage penetration 9 and larger in diameter.
Reduced heat generation Vented cones allow a continuous
air flow throughout the bearings
Larger cuttings to provide better cooling and
cleaning.
Less dust
See page 20 for recommended
nozzle sizes when using bits
with vented cones.
5
 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) APPLICATIONS:
MARATHON : For use in less abrasive formations such as
DRILLING SPEEDS: 70 to 120 rpm shales, limestones, carbonates, most metamorphic
JET CIRCULATION: All sizes formations and most copper bearing formations.

DRILLING WEIGHTS: 2,000 to 4,000

D-FORCE : For use in more abrasive formations
(lbs/inch of bit diameter) containing sand, silica, quartz, most ignious formations and most
gold bearing formations.

RB40/DF40 series
COMPRESSIVE STRENGTHS: 5,000 - 15,000 (psi) APPLICATIONS:
MARATHON : For use in less abrasive formations such as
DRILLING SPEEDS: 70 to 120 rpm shales, limestones, carbonates, most metamorphic
JET CIRCULATION: All sizes formations and most copper bearing formations.

DRILLING WEIGHTS: 2,000 to 4,500

D-FORCE : For use in more abrasive formations
(lbs/inch of bit diameter) containing sand, silica, quartz, most ignious formations and most
gold bearing formations.

DF43 series
COMPRESSIVE STRENGTHS: 8,500 - 23,500 (psi) APPLICATIONS:
DRILLING SPEEDS: 70 to 120 rpm
D-FORCE : For use in more abrasive formations
JET CIRCULATION: All sizes containing sand, silica, quartz, most ignious formations and most
gold bearing formations.
DRILLING WEIGHTS: 2,000 to 5,000
(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 MarathonTM series The Ridgeback D-ForceTM series

contains new longer life bearings, includes many of our Ridgeback
additional gage protection, and MarathonTM features with additional
improved cutting structure elements gage protection and a heavy duty
for use in high pull-down Sidewinder leg which is designed
applications. for extremely abrasive
applications and drilling conditions
where difficult hole cleaning, or
extreme formations, require
maximum shirttail protection.
Ridgeback D-Force
(Sidewinder)

6
 M E D I U M F O R M AT I O N
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:
DRILLING SPEEDS:
JET CIRCULATION:
DRILLING WEIGHTS:
(lbs/inch of bit diameter)
RB53/DF53
COMPRESSIVE STRENGTHS:
DRILLING SPEEDS:
JET CIRCULATION:
DRILLING WEIGHTS:
(lbs/inch of bit diameter)
RB60/DF60
COMPRESSIVE STRENGTHS:
DRILLING SPEEDS:
JET CIRCULATION:
DRILLING WEIGHTS:
(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 MarathonTM series
contains new longer life bearings,
additional gage protection, and
improved cutting structure elements
for use in high pull-down
applications.
INSERT BITS
10,000 - 30,000 (psi)
APPLICATIONS:
70 to 120 rpm
All sizes
MARATHON : For use in less abrasive formations such as
2,500 to 5,000 shales, limestones, carbonates, most metamorphic
formations and most copper bearing formations.
series
15,000 - 35,000 (psi) APPLICATIONS:
70 to 120 rpm MARATHON : For use in less abrasive formations such as
shales, limestones, carbonates, most metamorphic
All sizes formations and most copper bearing formations.
2,500 to 5,000
D-FORCE : For use in more abrasive formations
containing sand, silica, quartz, most ignious formations most
gold bearing formations.
series
25,000 - 45,000 (psi) APPLICATIONS:
60 to 100 rpm MARATHON : For use in less abrasive formations such as
shales, limestones, carbonates, most metamorphic
All sizes formations and most copper bearing formations.
3,000 to 6,000
D-FORCE : For use in more abrasive formations
containing sand, silica, quartz, most ignious formations most
gold bearing formations.
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.
Ridgeback D-Force
(Sidewinder)
7
 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) APPLICATIONS:
DRILLING SPEEDS: 60 to 100 rpm
MARATHON : For use in less abrasive formations such as
JET CIRCULATION: All sizes shales, limestones, carbonates, most metamorphic
formations and most copper bearing formations.
DRILLING WEIGHTS: 3,000 to 6,000
(lbs/inch of bit diameter)

RB67/DF67
COMPRESSIVE STRENGTHS:
DRILLING SPEEDS:
JET CIRCULATION:
series
30,000 - 50,000 (psi) APPLICATIONS:
MARATHON : For use in less abrasive formations such as
60 to 100 rpm shales, limestones, carbonates, most metamorphic
All sizes formations and most copper bearing formations.

DRILLING WEIGHTS: 3,000 to 6,500

D-FORCE : For use in more abrasive formations
(lbs/inch of bit diameter) 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 MarathonTM series The Ridgeback D-ForceTM series

contains new longer life bearings, includes many of our Ridgeback
additional gage protection, and MarathonTM features with additional
improved cutting structure elements gage protection and a heavy duty
for use in high pull-down Sidewinder leg which is designed
applications. for extremely abrasive
applications and drilling conditions
where difficult hole cleaning, or
extreme formations, require
maximum shirttail protection.
Ridgeback D-Force
(Sidewinder)

8
 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) APPLICATIONS:
MARATHON : For use in less abrasive formations such as
DRILLING SPEEDS: 50 to 90 rpm shales, limestones, carbonates, most metamorphic
JET CIRCULATION: All sizes formations and most copper bearing formations.

DRILLING WEIGHTS: 4,000 to 7,500

D-FORCE : For use in more abrasive formations
(lbs/inch of bit diameter) containing sand, silica, quartz, most ignious formations most
gold bearing formations.

RB80G series
COMPRESSIVE STRENGTHS: 50,000 (psi) and Higher APPLICATIONS:
DRILLING SPEEDS: 40 to 70 rpm
MARATHON : For use in less abrasive formations such as
JET CIRCULATION: All sizes shales, limestones, carbonates, most metamorphic
formations and most copper bearing formations.
DRILLING WEIGHTS: 5,000 to 8,000
(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 MarathonTM series The Ridgeback D-ForceTM series

contains new longer life bearings, includes many of our Ridgeback
additional gage protection, and MarathonTM features with additional
improved cutting structure elements gage protection and a heavy duty
for use in high pull-down Sidewinder leg which is designed
applications. for extremely abrasive
applications and drilling conditions
where difficult hole cleaning, or
extreme formations, require
maximum shirttail protection.
Ridgeback D-Force
(Sidewinder)

9
 INSERT BIT PRODUCT LINE

RIDGEBACK TM
PRODUCT LINE
Diameter SOFT > MEDIUM MEDIUM > HARD HARD > VERY HARD Pin Size Approx Wt
Inches mm 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 1 2 3 Inches lbs kg
6 1/4 159 RB53 3 1/2 42 19

6 3/4 171 RB40 RB50 RB60 RB70 3 1/2 46 21

7 3/8 187 RB40 RB50 RB50 3 1/2 58 26

7 7/8 200 RB30 RB40 RB50 RB53 RB60 RB63 4 1/2 76 35

8 1/2 216 RB67 4 1/2 83 38

9 229 RB30 RB40 RB43 RB53 RB60 4 1/2 96 43

9 7/8 251 RB30 RB40 RB50 RB53 RB60 RB63 RB67 RB80G 6 5/8 145 66

10 5/8 270 RB40 RB43 RB53 RB60 RB63 RB67 6 5/8 157 72

11 280 RB53 RB60 RB67 6 5/8 193 88

12 1/4 311 RB40 RB43 RB53 RB60 RB63 RB67 RB70 RB80G 6 5/8 225 102

13 3/4 349 RB53 RB60 RB67 6 5/8 292 134

16 406.4 RB60* 7 BECO 580 264

DF70
D-FORCE TM
PRODUCT LINE
Diameter DF43
SOFT > MDIUM MEDIUM > HARD HARD > VERY HARD Pin Size Approx Wt
Inches mm 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 1 2 3 Inches lbs kg
6 3/4 159 DF43 DF60 3 1/2 42 19

7 7/8 200 DF20 DF30 DF40 DF43 DF60 DF63 DF70 4 1/2 76 35

9 229 DF60 4 1/2 96 43

9 7/8 251 DF30 DF40 DF60 DF63 DF67 DF70 6 5/8 145 66

10 5/8 270 DF30 DF40 DF53 DF60 DF63 DF67 6 5/8 157 72

11 280 DF60 DF63 DF67 6 5/8 193 88

12 1/4 311 DF57 DF60 DF63 DF67 6 5/8 225 102

16 406.4 DF67* 7 BECO 580 264

*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
 INDUSTRIAL BIT PRODUCT LINE

TUNGSTEN CARBIDE INDUSTRIAL BITS

Diameter SOFT MEDIUM HARD Pin Size Approx Wt
Inches mm 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 lbs kg
2 15/16 - 3 75-76 DW7 N Rod 8 3.6

3 7/8 98 DW531 DW532 DWH 2 3/8 10 4.5

4 101 DWH 2 3/8 11 4.75

4 1/4 108 DW7 2 3/8 12 5.5

4 1/2 114 DW7 2 3/8 13 5.8

4 3/4 121 DW9 DW7 QMC7 2 7/8 15 6.8

4 7/8 123 QMC7 2 7/8 16 7.1

5 1/8 130 QMC9 DW53ET DW7 QMC7 2 7/8 17 7.7

5 5/8 143 DW9 DW7 QMC7 3 1/2 27 12.2

5 7/8 149 DW9 DW7 M60 3 1/2 28 12.7

6 152 DW9 DW7 3 1/2 35 15.9

6 1/4 159 QMC53ET QMC7 3 1/2 36 16.3

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 EXPLORATION BITS
have:
Open non-sealed roller bearings. BIT AVAILABILITY
Fully sealed compensated journal bearings. Bit
Diameter Type Formation Bearing

Varel provides a range of products for reverse circulation applications. These bits 5 1/8" DW53ET MEDIUM OPEN
are developed to provide exceptional performance in a wide variety of formations 5 1/4" RX53 MEDIUM OPEN
typically encountered during mineral exploration. The center hole is the maximum 5 3/8" RX53 MEDIUM OPEN
diameter possible for superior hole cleaning and cuttings retrieval. All RX and RC 5 1/2" RX53 MEDIUM OPEN
bits are precision machined to work with most existing R/C systems.
Products featuring both sealed and open bearings are available. Varel fullysealed 3 7/8" CH24 SOFT SEALED*
bearing products for reverse circulation applications feature fully pressure 4 3/4" CH24 SOFT SEALED*
compensated, non serviceable lubrication supplied to the industrys most 4 3/4" CH35 MEDIUM SEALED*
sophisticated journal bearing. The bearing features hardmetal inlays on all contact
4 3/4" ETD48 HARD SEALED*
surfaces with silver-plated cone bearings, specially formulated seal compounds, and
5" RC537 MEDIUM SEALED*
high-temperature lubricant. The bearings and seals are developed for long life.
5 1/8" RC537 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 5 1/4" RC537 MEDIUM SEALED*
thrust elements to prevent axial wear. The cones are retained by ball bearings and
5 3/8" RC537 MEDIUM SEALED*
the pilot pin features hardmetal inlays against a tool steel bushing.
5 1/2" RC537 MEDIUM SEALED*
Regardless of bearing type, the cutting structures on all reverse c i r c u l a t i o n 5 5/8" CH34 MEDIUM SEALED*
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
5 3/4" CH34 MEDIUM SEALED*
durability. These bits consistently provide the lowest cost per foot of drilled hole in
5 7/8" CM34 MEDIUM SEALED*
mineral exploration applications.
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 SOFT MEDIUM HARD Pin Size Approx Wt
Inches mm 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 lbs kg
2 7/8 73 LH1 N Rod 4 1.8
2 15/16 75 LH1 N Rod 4 1.8
3 1/4 79-82 N Rod 4 1/4 1.9
3 1/2-3 5/8 89-92 L2 L1 LH1 2 3/8 9 4.1
3 3/4 95 L2 2 3/8 9 4.1
3 7/8-4 1/8 98-105 L2 L1 LH1 2 3/8 9 4.1
4 1/4 108 L2 2 3/8 10 4.5
4 1/2 114 L2 LH1 2 3/8 11 5
4 5/8 117 L2 2 7/8 11 5
4 3/4 121 L2 L1 LH1 2 7/8 16 7.3
4 7/8 123 L2 LH1 2 7/8 16 7.3
5 127 V3M0 L2 2 7/8 16 7.3
5 1/8 130 V3S0 L2 2 7/8 17 8
5 1/4 133 L2 2 7/8 17 8
5 3/8 136 L2 2 7/8 17 8
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
6 152 L2 3 1/2 26 11.8
6 1/8 156 L2 L1 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* L211* 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
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: 500 to 3,000 (psi)
DRILLING SPEEDS: 60 to 150 rpm
JET CIRCULATION: all sizes
DRILLING WEIGHTS: 2,000 to 5,000
(lbs/inch of bit diameter)
GAGE TYPES: 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: 500 to 3,500 (psi)
DRILLING SPEEDS: 60 to 150 rpm
JET CIRCULATION: all sizes
DRILLING WEIGHTS: 2,000 to 5,500
(lbs/inch of bit diameter)
GAGE TYPES: 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: 1,000 to 5,000 (psi)
DRILLING SPEEDS: 50 to 100 rpm
JET CIRCULATION: 5 1/8 and larger
DRILLING WEIGHTS: 2,000 to 5,000
(lbs/inch of bit diameter)
GAGE TYPES: 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 car-
bide 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
MEDIUM & HARD STEEL TOOTH BITS
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: 4,000 to 10,000 (psi)
DRILLING SPEEDS: 35 to 85 rpm
ALL REGULAR CIRCULATION: 2 7/8 and larger
DRILLING WEIGHTS: 3,000 to 6,000
(lbs/inch of bit diameter)
GAGE TYPES; 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: 8,000 - 18,000 (psi)
DRILLING SPEEDS: 35 to 75 rpm
REGULAR CIRCULATION: All sizes
DRILLING WEIGHTS: 3,500 to 6,500
(lbs/inch of bit diameter)
GAGE TYPES: 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: 9,000 - 20,000 (psi)
DRILLING SPEEDS: 30 to 65 rpm
REGULAR CIRCULATION: All sizes
DRILLING WEIGHTS: 3,500 to 7,000
(lbs/inch of bit diameter)
GAGE TYPES: 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
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.
Regular Air Circulation
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.
Jet Circulation Fluid or Air
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
Varel Internationals oilfield and mining experience PILOT BIT
provides a selection of sealed bearing journal bits AVAILABILITY
designed for drilling the most demanding raise bore
pilot holes, blind bore pilot holes, and underground Bit Sizes Bit Type
drill and blast holes. PHR80*
15"
13 3/4" PH80
Each bit is designed with a premium sealed bearing
12 1/4" PHR80* - PH80
system including a pressure compensator. The
premium bearing package features advanced 11" PH60 - PH80
metallurgy with frictional elements silver-plated to PH80
9"
reduce frictional heat generation and provide
resistance to galling under high loads. O-ring seals
made from a proprietary HSN elastomer provide * Sealed roller bearing bit for Boxhole applications.
extremely long seal life.
All Varel premium pilot bits incorporate specially
The PH80 series features blunt dome-shaped inserts formulated highly saturated nitrile elastomers and
to provide a durable cutting structure for maximum high temperature lubricants.
crushing and chipping action while minimizing
wear. Varels PH60 bits utilize conical and/or chisel (New diameters and models are under development.
shaped inserts for increased penetration rates in
softer formations. Extra hardmetal and carbide Please consult your nearest representative.)
inserts are installed in the surface of the shirttail to
provide superior seal protection.

12 1/4 - PH80

17
 CONVERSION TABLE
TO CONVERT INTO MULTIPLY BY
DEPTH feet meters 0.3048
metres feet 3.2808
inches millimeters 25.4
millimeters inches 0.0394

WEIGHT ON BIT pounds decanewtons 0.4448

decanewtons tonne (metric) 2.2481
tonne pounds 0.0004536
pounds kilograms 0.4536
kilograms pounds 2.205

NOZZLE SIZE 32nds millimeters 0.7938

millimeters 32nds 1.2598

VOLUME 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

CIRCULATION RATE barrels/min gallons/min 42

gallons/min barrels/min 0.02381
gallons/min liters/min 3.7854
liters/min gallons/min 0.2642

ANNULAR VELOCITY feet/min meters/min 0.3048

meters/min feet/min 3.2808

PRESSURE 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

MUD WEIGHT (density) 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

TORQUE foot pound newton meters 1.3558

newton meters foot pound 0.7376

AREA square inches square millimeters 645.16

square millimeters square inches 0.00155

18
 CHARTS FOR MAXIMUM BIT LIFE

VAREL INSERT BIT COMPARISON AND HARDNESS TABLE

REPRESENTATIVE ROCK COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH in psi / mpa / protodjakonov scales

PSI 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 17.2 34.5 51.7 69.0 86.2 103.4 120.7 137.9 155.1 172.4 189.6 206.8 224.1 241.3 258.6 275.8 293.0 310.3 327.5 344.7 362.0 379.2 396.5 413.7 430.9 448.2 465.4 482.6
PTO 2.5 4 6 7 8 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 18 19 20 21 22 23 23 24
CONGLOMERATE
FORMATION

BASALT (HARD)
SCHIST (SOFT)

AMPHIBOLITE
SANDSTONE

SANDSTONE
LIMESTONE

LIMESTONE

QUARTZITE

QUARTZITE
(DOLERITE)
(AVERAGE)

GRANITE

DIABASE
GABBRO
DIORITE
(HARD)

(HARD)

(HARD)
GNEISS
(SOFT)

(SOFT)

(SOFT)

SLATE

S 30
O
F 40
T
43
Varel
TM
M Ridgeback Marathon
TM
E 50 Ridgeback D-Force
D
I 53 Series Insert Bits
U
M 60
63
H
A 67
R 70
D
80

VAREL STEEL TOOTH BIT COMPARISON AND HARDNESS TABLE

REPRESENTATIVE ROCK COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH in psi / mpa / protodjakonov scales

PSI 1000 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 69.0 75.8 82.7 89.6 96.5 103.4 110.3 117.2 124.1 131.0
PTO 1 2 3 4 6 6 7 8 9 9 10 10 11 11 12
CONGLOMERATE
FORMATION

SCHIST (HARD)
BASALT (SOFT)

SHALE (SOFT)
SCHIST (SOFT)

SANDSTONE

SANDSTONE
LIMESTONE

LIMESTONE

DOLOMITE

ANDESITE

MARBLE

DIORITE
(HARD)

(HARD)
(SOFT)

(SOFT)
TUFF

S L111
O
F V3MO
T
Varel
Steel Tooth
M
E L2 Bits
D
I
U
M

H
A L1
R LH1
D

19
 U S E F U L O P E R AT I O N A L D ATA

Nozzle Hole Area Chart Tips for optimizing drill bit performance
Hole Size Area/1 Hole Area/3 Holes 1. Keep rotating the bit, and turn on the air before the bit touches the ground,
in. mm Sq. in. mm 2
Sq. in. mm 2 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
1/4 6.35 .049 31.62 .147 94.84 off the air.
9/32 7.14 .062 40.00 .186 120.01 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
5/16 7.93 .076 49.04 .228 147.11 linear feet per minute in return air velocity is required to properly clean the hole,
11/32 8.73 .093 60.00 .279 180.01 particularly with heavier or larger cuttings.
3/8 9.52 .110 70.97 .330 219.92 3. Inspect the rock bit after each hole and record the condition of the rock bit at
regular intervals.
13/32 10.31 .130 83.88 .390 251.63
4. Hot cones may indicate obstruction of the air passage to the bearings.
7/16 11.11 .150 96.78 .450 290.34
5. Pressure gage increases may indicate air passages are plugging.
15/32 11.90 .172 110.97 .516 332.92
6. An increase in air pressure may indicate unwanted restrictions in the air system.
1/2 12.70 .196 126.46 .588 379.38 A decrease in air pressure may indicate leakage in the air system.
17/32 13.49 .222 143.23 .666 429.70 7. Accidental dropping of the bit and drill string can damage bearings and/or cones.
9/16 14.28 .248 160.01 .745 480.67 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
5/8 15.87 .306 197.43 .918 592.29 reduce the pressure drop loss across the drill string to the lowest possible psi.
11/16 17.46 .372 240.01 1.116 720.04 9. Avoid early bit failures by refraining from using bent drill steel and excessively
3/4 19.05 .442 285.18 1.326 855.54 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
7/8 22.22 .601 387.77 1.803 1163.30
and rock bit mate properly shoulder to shoulder. Monitor the process carefully in
1 25.40 .785 506.48 2.355 1519.45 order to avoid cross threading.
1 1/8 28.57 .993 640.68 2.985 1925.92 11. Use proper tool joint lubrication to maintain connections.
1 1/4 31.75 1.228 792.31 3.684 2376.92 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.
Nozzle Size Adjustment 14. Rotary speed should be decreased as down pressure is increased and down
For Vented Cones pressure decreased as rotary speed is increased.
15. Accurate information is valuable knowledge. Always record footage drilled, time
Nozzle size for in the hole, rpm, weight on bit, psi, formation drilled and any unusual drilling
Non-vented vented cones (one)
conditions. (Water in the hole, broken formations, etc.)
nozzle size Bit size Bit size
(one) 16. Form drilling process improvement teams with your key suppliers. Establish
9" 9 7/8" - 13 3/4" improvement goals and measure progress.
1/2" 7/16" 7/16"
9/16" 1/2" 1/2"
5/8" 9/16" 9/16"
11/16" 5/8" 5/8"
Total Drilling Cost
3/4" Hole Area
Nozzle 3/4" Chart 11/16" TDC = B + R
F P
13/16" 13/16" 3/4"
7/8" 7/8" 13/16" TDC = Total drilling cost per foot or meter drilled

15/16" 15/16" 7/8" B = Total bit price

1" 1" 15/16" R = Operating cost per hour for the drill rig expressed in dollars per hour

Unique feature at Varel International F = Total life of the rock bit expressed in either feet or meters
are vented cones. P = Penetration rate of the rock bit expressed as feet or meters per hour
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
 U S E F U L O P E R AT I O N A L D ATA

BIT AIR PRESSURE DROP CHART

Full Jet Air Pressure Drop (pounds per square inch) Bits with various air course diameters or jet nozzle sizes
Air Nozzle
Bit Size Course Diameter Air Volume Delivered
Range Diameter 3 Each Cubic Feet Per Minute
in. mm in. mm in. 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
1/2 12.70 5/16 7.93 45 55 65 75 84
5 3/8 137 5/8 15.87 3/8 9.52 36 46 54 64 72 81
to 3/4 19.05 7/16 11.11 30 37 44 51 60 68 76 82
6 3/4 171 7/8 22.22 1/2 12.70 26 32 36 44 51 57 64 70 76 82
1 25.40 9/16 14.28 21 26 32 37 44 50 54 59 65 70 76 82
3/4 19.05 7/16 11.11 24 31 38 45 52 58 66 72 78 84
7 3/8 187 7/8 22.22 1/2 12.70 24 30 36 42 48 54 62 70 79 87
to 1 25.40 9/16 14.28 23 29 35 40 46 52 58 64 70 76 83
7 7/8 200 1 1/8 28.57 5/8 15.87 24 29 34 39 44 50 55 60 65 71 76 82
5/8 15.87 3/8 9.52 29 39 49 57 65 73 80
3/4 19.05 7/16 11.11 22 30 38 45 53 61 68 75 82
9 229 7/8 22.22 1/2 12.70 24 30 36 42 48 56 63 69 74 80
to 1 25.40 9/16 14.28 23 29 35 41 46 52 57 62 67 71 76 81
9 7/8 251 1 1/8 28.57 5/8 15.87 22 28 35 39 44 49 52 56 61 65 69 73 77 81
3/4 19.05 22 25 29 34 39 43 46 50 53 57 60 64 67 71 74 78 82
3/4 19.05 7/16 11.11 22 28 33 38 44 49 55 61 66 72 78
7/8 22.22 1/2 12.70 21 26 30 36 41 46 50 55 59 63 68 73 78
1 25.40 9/16 14.28 22 26 30 34 37 41 45 49 53 58 62 66 70 75
10 5/8 270 1 1/8 28.57 5/8 15.87 22 25 28 30 34 37 41 45 49 52 56 60 64 67 71 75
to 1 3/8 34.92 3/4 19.05 22 25 28 31 34 37 40 43 45 48 51 54 57 60 64 68
17 1/2 445 1 1/2 38.10 7/8 22.22 20 22 24 26 28 30 31 33 36 38 40 43 45 47 50
2 50.80 1 1/8 28.57 20 22 28 30 30 32 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 = 183.3 x ACFM
D 2 _ d2
BV = Bailing velocity(feet per minute)
ACFM = Actual cubic feet of free air per minute delivered
183.3 = Factor for conversion
D = Diameter of the hole being drilled. (inches)
d = 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

C E R T I F I E D
7234 - 012011

Visit us at WWW.VARELINTL.COM