The new MARATHON carbide insert for button bits, offered by Rockmore International, combines higher hardness properties with longer-lasting performance to handle extreme, abrasive rock-drilling conditions. This advanced carbide grade uses a newly developed manufacturing process to improve overall bit performance for a variety of down-the-hole (DTH) hammers and a broad range of drill-rig models.

Introduced as a “new generation” of carbide inserts for button bits, MARATHON carbides employ microstructural design changes to provide increased hardness while maintaining optimum toughness characteristics that resist catastrophic fracture.

Extensive rock-drilling trials showed that the carbides last up to 20-percent longer than previous designs in water-well and mining environments. Wear flats appeared slower and later in the carbide life when compared to inserts with traditional composition.

MARATHON carbides are available for all DTH bits designated for water-well drilling up to 10 inches in diameter with button sizes up to three quarter (¾) inch.

MARATHON’s innovative manufacturing process achieves higher hardness properties while maintaining structural toughness. Thus, button wear is reduced and overall bit life is enhanced in even the most abrasive and hardest rock conditions.

Rockmore International is a global manufacturer of rock-drilling tools, serving the mining, construction, and water-well sectors for more than 50 years.