Procurement guide / Blasthole Rigs
DTH Hammer and Bit Connections: A Buyer’s Checklist
Quick answer
Match the exact hammer variant to its approved bit shank and connection drawing. A shared nominal inch size is not sufficient evidence that a replacement bit, backhead or adapter will fit.
Identify the installed hammer before requesting a price
A replacement enquiry often begins with a photo and an approximate diameter. Treat that as an identification lead rather than a final purchase specification. Record the manufacturer, model, serial or identifying marks and any suffix on the hammer. Ask the current equipment owner for its parts list and previous purchase records.
Rockmore distinguishes several DTH hammer families and provides model documentation. Its T Series description also identifies a tubeless arrangement. This illustrates why a general description such as “DTH hammer” cannot establish the internal arrangement or interchangeability of a particular tool.
Record the interfaces on one sheet
Ask the tool supplier to mark the relevant interfaces on its drawing. Where an existing component cannot be positively identified, make that uncertainty explicit in the RFQ. Photos with a scale can help the supplier discuss identification, but they do not replace an approved dimensional drawing or an agreed inspection process.
| Interface | Record | Ask the supplier to confirm |
|---|---|---|
| Bit shank | Exact designation and drawing | Approved match to the named hammer variant |
| Bit diameter | Required diameter and application | Available configuration and dimensional reference |
| Backhead | Thread form, size and drawing | Compatibility with rod or adapter |
| Internal arrangement | Model suffix and manual | Correct tube/valve arrangement and replacement parts |
| Air supply | Compressor proposal and operating conditions | Model-specific requirements and limitations |
Get compatibility confirmed for the actual variant
Separate the bit-to-hammer connection from the hammer-to-string connection. A correct bit shank does not by itself establish the backhead thread, adapter, rod connection or air arrangement. Request part numbers for the full combination and written confirmation from the responsible supplier.
Do not ask an operator to dismantle pressurised tooling for a sales enquiry. If inspection or measurement is needed, follow the relevant manufacturer’s isolation, servicing and handling instructions with competent personnel. This checklist defines purchasing information; it is not an assembly or repair procedure.
Keep valve or tube arrangements in the compatibility discussion. Never assume that a component can simply be omitted or transferred because another product family uses a different design. Have the supplier identify the correct manual and replacement list for the offered hammer.
Make the order traceable
Put the accepted drawing revision, model, shank designation, connection specification and part quantities on the order. Ask the supplier to identify any proposed substitution before dispatch. Record whether an adapter is included and who has confirmed its compatibility with the rest of the string.
On receipt, compare identification marks, documents and packaging against the agreed order before releasing the tool for installation. Resolve a mismatch with the supplier rather than treating a similar appearance as proof of fit. Keep photographs and packing records linked to the order so that later spare enquiries can reference a known configuration.
Use the enquiry worksheet.
Download an editable text checklist to record supplier responses, document references and unresolved questions.
Download Checklist ↓Buyer questions.
Will every 5-inch DTH bit fit every 5-inch hammer?
No. A nominal size describes a class; confirm the exact shank, hammer variant and manufacturer documentation.
Can a photograph confirm a thread connection?
A photograph can help identification. Use the connection specification and an approved drawing to confirm the purchase.
Sources and scope.
External sources support the background points attributed to them. The enquiry questions, checklists and procurement implications are RigSpan editorial guidance. References to other manufacturers do not imply a commercial relationship, endorsement or performance equivalence.
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