High-performance mining drill rods: why NWBJ is the new standard for deep drilling

In the demanding world of mining exploration, efficiency and durability are not just goals—they are necessities. As projects push into greater depths, the limitations of standard equipment become apparent. To meet these challenges, Technidrill, a premier French manufacturer since 1989, has developed the NWBJ rod, a high-performance solution specifically designed for professionals seeking the most reliable mining drill rods for deep wireline core drilling.

Developed in collaboration with world-leading mining exploration experts, the NWBJ series integrates advanced R&D with precision manufacturing to redefine productivity on-site.

Engineered for performance: increasing ROP and driller Comfort

When performing deep drilling, every second saved during the (un)screwing process translates to significant cost reductions. These mining drill rods are engineered to minimize downtime through several key design innovations:

• Bigger Thread Pitch: The NWBJ thread features a larger pitch than standard rods, allowing for significantly faster connection and disconnection.
• Double-entry Thread: Unlike standard single-entry threads, the NWBJ utilizes a double-entry design. This makes it easier for operators to align and screw the rods, enhancing both worker comfort and thread longevity.
• Optimized Efficiency: By reducing the time required for rod handling, drillers can complete tasks more efficiently and maximize active drilling time.

Enhanced reliability for extreme depths

Deep drilling requires mining drill rods that can withstand immense physical stress. The NWBJ rod offers superior mechanical properties verified by rigorous laboratory testing. When compared to standard N-WL rods, the NWBJ series shows a dramatic increase in performance:

• +38% Tensile Strength: This improvement at the breaking point ensures the rods can support the weight of long drill strings in both vertical and horizontal applications.
• +94% Maximum Torque: Nearly doubling the torque capacity allows these rods to handle the resistance encountered at extreme depths without failure.

Advanced Stress Distribution

The NWBJ threads are 34.5% deeper and wider than standard industry options. This specific geometry allows for the repartition of preload stress across the entire threading. While standard threads often concentrate stress in small, vulnerable areas, the NWBJ design reduces friction and galling, significantly extending the life of your drilling tools.

Sustainability and safety through innovation

Technidrill is committed to creating the future of drilling by prioritizing sustainability and driller safety. The NWBJ rod includes unique features that protect both the environment and the personnel on-site.

Wear Progression Monitoring

To prevent catastrophic failures downhole, NWBJ rods feature three identification grooves. These grooves act as a visual gauge for the rod’s wear level:

• 50% Worn-out: The first groove disappears.
• 75% Worn-out: The second groove disappears.
• 100% Worn-out: Once all three grooves are gone, the rod is no longer usable and must be replaced to ensure safety.

Eco-friendly Manufacturing

Sustainability is woven into the production process. NWBJ mining drill rods are crafted using 50% high-quality recycled steel at Technidrill’s state-of-the-art facility in Carros, France. This commitment ensures a lower environmental footprint without compromising the durability or precision required for demanding worksites.