Ridgeback Marathon

Introducing: the Ridgeback Marathon™ Series

Varel International is presently introducing a new line of three cone bits designed for the blast hole industry. These products, the Ridgeback Marathon™ series, feature the most advanced features available today in air circulation rock bits.

Ridgeback™ Design Technology

New advances in computer technology have allowed Varel to develop rock bit design software that enables design changes to 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. Varel engineers are able to predict the effects of design modifications and limit the risks associated with new product development.

Available bit range

Advanced Bearing Design

All Ridgeback Marathon™ 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.

 

High Energy Tumbling™

Precision manufactured inserts are further processed for maximum toughness. Varel’s HET™ - high energy tumbling process (patent pending) - gives the inserts a unique surface toughness that extends bit life.

Improved Thrust Capacity

Bearing thrust capacity is often the limiting factor in bearing life. Ridgeback Marathon™ bits feature an improved thrust face design, which minimizes outward thrust wear to prolong bearing life.

Enhanced Cutter Design

The Ridgeback Marathon™ Design process provides the highest penetration rates and longest life available.

Maximum Gage Protection

SRT (Semi Round Top) tungsten carbide and welded hardmetal provide superior wear resistance to the shirttail area. This feature is particularly effective in formations which tend to cave in, or when hole bailing is a problem.

Vented Cones

Vented cones are standard in all Ridgeback™ and Ridgeback Marathon™ series bits 9” and larger in diameter. Vented cones allow a continuous air flow throughout the bearings to provide better cooling and cleaning.