What Are the Different Types of Button Rock Drill Bits?

Button rock drill bits are essential for top hammer rock drilling, delivering high-impact penetration in hard rock formations. These carbide button drill bits use strategically placed tungsten carbide inserts (buttons) to fracture rock efficiently. Whether you're drilling in mining, tunneling, quarrying, or construction, choosing the right button bit for rock drilling is critical for performance and cost-efficiency.

Litian Heavy Industry Machinery Co., Ltd specializes in manufacturing high-quality button bits, including ballistic button bits, spherical button bits, and retrac bits, designed for durability and precision in hard rock drill bits applications.

This guide explores 5 main types of button rock drill bits, their applications, advantages, and how to choose the best button bit for your project.

Standard Button Rock Drill Bits

Standard button rock drill bits are the most commonly used type of button rock drill bit. They are designed with carbide button on the tip and are suitable for drilling through hard rock formations. Standard button rock drill bits are available in a range of sizes and can be used for both surface and underground drilling.

Best for: General rock drilling with balanced speed and durability.

Litian's standard button drill bits feature optimized button layout for even wear and extended life.

Retrac Button Rock Drill Bits

Retrac button rock drill bits are designed with a retractable drill bit that can be extended and retracted as needed. This feature allows the drill bit to maintain a constant contact with the rock surface, resulting in a more efficient drilling process. Retrac button rock drill bits are ideal for drilling through loose rock formations and are commonly used in mining and tunneling operations.

Best for: Drilling in unstable formations where hole collapse is a risk. Litian's retrac button bits are engineered with high-strength steel bodies and premium carbide inserts to resist breakage.

Drop Center Button Rock Drill Bits

Drop center button rock drill bits are designed with a slightly concave tip that creates a central depression on the rock surface. This feature allows the drill bit to maintain a more stable contact with the rock surface, resulting in a more efficient drilling process. Drop center button rock drill bits are suitable for drilling through hard rock formations and are commonly used in quarrying and mining operations. For efficient and safe mining and tunneling operations, selecting the right type of mining drill bits is crucial.

Best for: Straight, deep holes in competent rock. Ideal for drilling a hole in a rock with precision in underground drill bit applications.

Ballistic Button Rock Drill Bits

Ballistic button rock drill bits are designed with multiple carbide buttons on the tip that provide a higher impact force and a faster drilling process. This type of carbide button bit is suitable for drilling through medium-hard rock formations and is commonly used in quarrying and mining operations.

Best for: High-speed drilling with aggressive cutting. Litian offers custom ballistic button bits for soft to medium rock with low-cost threaded button bit options.

Spherical Button Rock Drill Bits

Spherical button rock drill bits are designed with many spherical carbide buttons on the tip that provides a high impact force and is highly resistant to wear and tear. This type of drill bit is suitable for drilling through hard and abrasive rock formations and is commonly used in mining and tunneling operations.

Best for: Long-life drilling in extreme conditions. Litian's spherical drill bits use premium grade carbide for maximum button retention and bit life.

How to Choose the Right Button Bit for Rock Drilling