07 Ottobre

Case History: Appia

The "Appia" model is a high-performance carbide drillbit developed and produced in collaboration with a client facing difficulties during the opening phases of the taphole due to prolonged stoppages, as well as during the use of "harder" taphole clay than standard.

Early wear, combined with the risk of tool replacement during the drilling process, were the most significant issues. Additionally, due to the flat profile of the bits in use, an "ellipse" effect often occurred at the start of drilling.

The development of the new drillbit has therefore focused on wear resistance, impact resistance, and the "self-centring" profile of the tip. Based on our shared experiences with clients, we chose a closed shape that enveloped the carbide, reducing the risk of breakage during impact drilling, a coarser grain that is less fragile with good wear resistance characteristics, and a pointed shape that favoured centring during the initial drilling phase.

The result of this project is Appia, and the tests confirmed the objectives we set:
- Drilling times lower than average;
- Reduced wear and no need for tool changes;
- Elimination of the ellipse effect at the start of drilling.

Currently, it is regularly used in "heavy" opening processes, during tests with new taphole clays, and whenever difficult drilling is anticipated. Considering the type of tool with welded carbide, a suitable cooling system is strongly recommended.

Appia is the name of an ancient Roman road capable of withstanding the wear of millennia, as well as the address of the client with whom we developed this bit. It seemed like the right name to assign to this model.

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