KAT drilling tools announces the launch of the latest rock drill tools, DriftMaster™ line of drill rods and bits. DriftMaster drill rods and bits have a unique thread profile that provides extra durability and strength for tunneling, rock bolting and driving in the toughest conditions. “Global field testing of the DriftMaster product has exceeded expectations resulting in longer test times, large sample sizes and very positive feedback,” said Jeff Hogan, Boart Longyear Top Hammer Tooling Product Manager. "Field test results are in very good agreement with our design goal of significantly improved durability over standard threads. Our customers will benefit from increased productivity and lower overall costs." To maximize performance, DriftMaster increases strength by reducing stress in two main ways: 1) the tapered profile provides more material cross section at the bottom of the thread and 2) the asymmetric thread geometry minimizes concentrated stress. "Less stress combined with deep case hardening can significantly improve cyclic load resistance. More cycles means more drilling time and higher productivity." DriftMaster thread geometry optimizes load distribution and contact area for maximum wear resistance in the toughest drilling conditions. Combined with the wear resistance associated with carburizing heat treatment, the DriftMaster can withstand the toughest drilling conditions. To further increase productivity, the taper thread profile provides excellent make-up and break-out characteristics for drill pipe for increased drilling time. The DriftMaster is available in 35mm hex for use with standard, Retrac and Straightrac 43mm to 64mm stud bits. Initial offerings include dome and rail expanders, including the optional RazorBack™, a patented high performance rear expander.