FIELD-SERVICEABLE HDD ROCK CUTTING SYSTEM

Replaceable Roller Bit

Engineered for HDD and microtunneling reaming applications, the DRILLNOVA Replaceable Roller Bit combines a project-matched insert layout with a secure three-bolt mounting system. The complete cutter module can be removed and replaced without welding, helping crews reduce workshop work and restore the cutting structure efficiently.

Application

HDD and microtunneling reaming

Formation

Soft through very hard formations

Mounting System

Slot pocket with three bolts and spring locks

Cutting Structures

Milled tooth, chisel, conical or spherical

Product Overview & Application

Overview

The DRILLNOVA Replaceable Roller Bit is a modular cutter assembly developed for rock reamers used in horizontal directional drilling and microtunneling. Instead of welding each cutter assembly directly to the reamer body, the holder fits into a machined slot pocket and is retained by three bolts with spring-lock components. A worn or application-mismatched cutter can therefore be exchanged without cutting and rewelding the tool body.

DRILLNOVA replaceable roller bit range for HDD rock reamers

Fast Field Replacement

The removable cutter module can be changed without welding, reducing maintenance time when compatible spare assemblies are available.

Secure Three-Bolt Retention

The slot pocket, three-bolt mounting pattern and spring-lock components provide positive mechanical retention during reaming.

Application-Matched Cutting Structure

Milled-tooth and TCI-style chisel, conical or spherical options allow the contact geometry to be selected for the formation.

Refined Insert Coverage

The current layout is designed to improve formation coverage, limit blind cutting zones and support penetration consistency.

Design, Construction & Available Options

Loading 3D model…
Drag to rotate · Scroll to zoom

Cutter assembly

Replaceable rolling cutter module with application-matched tooth or insert structure

Mounting interface

Machined slot pocket for repeatable positioning and load transfer

Retention

Three-bolt fastening system with washers and spring-lock components

Cutter coverage

Refined insert layout designed to reduce uncut zones and distribute rock contact

Cone sizes

MH-7R, MH-3R and 12MH-3R

Cutting options

Milled tooth, chisel, conical and spherical

The ranges above are catalogue selection guidance rather than guaranteed limits. Abrasiveness, fracture pattern, confinement and drilling parameters must also be considered.

3rd Generation

Cutting Structure Options

Select the cutting structure to match the formation strength and drilling conditions.

Orange roller bit with extended milled steel teeth

Milled Tooth

Soft formation

Rock strength5–35 MPa
Orange roller bit with chisel-shaped cutting teeth

Chisel

Soft to Medium Formation

Rock strength60–110 MPa
Orange roller bit with pointed conical cutting inserts

Conical

Medium to Hard Formation

Rock strength100–180 MPa
Orange roller bit with rounded spherical cutting inserts

Spherical

Hard to Very Hard Formation

Rock strength150–240 MPa

Models & Specifications

Review standard Diamond Compact PDC Bit configurations below. Final dimensions and connections are confirmed during application review.

MH-3R

Nominal cone size: 8.5 in
Catalogue overall width: 120 mm
Catalogue overall height: 253.39 mm
Catalogue holder height: 120 mm
Mounting: Slot pocket, three-bolt and spring-lock system
Cutting structure: Selected for the formation
Weight: Confirm with final configuration
VIEW PDF

Use, Quality & Documentation

Use & Installation

Clean and inspect the slot pocket before installation. Confirm the cutter model, orientation, fastener specification and required torque, then install all washers and spring-lock components in the approved sequence.

Inspection / Replacement

After each run, inspect the teeth or inserts, cone rotation, bearing and seal response, holder, bolts and pocket contact surfaces. Replace the cutter module if wear, looseness, cracking or rotation resistance exceeds the approved limit.

Handling / Storage

Protect the inserts, cone and mounting faces from impact and contamination. Store cutter modules dry, keep matched fastening hardware together and apply suitable corrosion protection for extended storage.

Roller cone cutter dimensional inspection using a precision caliper

Quality / Process Steps

1. Incoming material and component verification
2. Holder and pocket-interface dimensional inspection
3. Tooth or insert pattern and cutter-surface inspection
4. Cone rotation, bearing response and seal inspection

Documentation

Product Data SheetPDF ↓
Installation & Fastener GuidePDF ↓
Inspection ChecklistPDF ↓
Handling & Storage GuidePDF ↓

Related HDD Products

Product FAQ

What is a Replaceable Roller Bit used for?

It is used as a removable rolling cutter module on compatible HDD and microtunneling reaming tools. The system allows the cutting assembly to be serviced without welding it directly to the reamer body.

Which model names are available?

The current catalogue lists MH-7R, MH-3R and 12MH-3R, with nominal cone sizes of 7.875, 8.5 and 12.5 inches respectively.

Which cutting structure should I choose?

Milled tooth is intended for softer formations, while chisel, conical and spherical structures progressively address stronger rock. Final selection must also consider abrasiveness, fractures, confinement and available operating parameters.

Can the cutter be replaced in the field?

Yes, when the worksite has the approved procedure, compatible replacement module, correct fasteners and suitable lifting and torque equipment. The pocket and retention components must be inspected before reassembly.

What information is required to confirm compatibility?

Provide the reamer diameter, pocket drawing or dimensions, required cutter model, formation description, rock-strength data where available, rig torque and thrust limits, and photographs of the existing mounting interface.

What should be inspected after a reaming run?

Inspect insert loss or breakage, uneven wear, cone rotation, bearing play, seal condition, holder cracking, bolt condition and pocket contact surfaces. Record the findings before returning the tool to service.

Are the catalogue dimensions final manufacturing tolerances?

No. They are published envelope dimensions for model identification. Obtain the controlled model drawing before manufacturing a pocket or confirming interchangeability.

Confirm the Correct Roller Bit Before Your Next Run

Share your reamer diameter, pocket drawing, formation data and rig limits. DRILLNOVA will review the model, cutting structure and mounting compatibility for your application.

Contact Form Demo
TALK TO DRILLNOVA

Request Technical Guidance

Tell us about your ground conditions, bore requirements or tooling needs. Our HDD tool specialist will review your information and recommend the appropriate next step.

  • Product and application guidance
  • Model, size and connection review
  • Availability and delivery coordination
  • Response from an HDD tooling specialist

For faster review, include the tool type, bore diameter, ground conditions, drill rig and required connection when available.

Tell Us About Your Project

Fields marked with * are required. You may submit a general question even if some technical details are not yet available.

Contact Form Demo

We use your information only to review your request and contact you about Drillnova products or technical support.

DOCTECHNICAL DOCUMENT REQUEST

Request a Technical Document

Request technical information for this HDD tool. Submit your details and our team will review the selected model or document and contact you.

  • Request linked to the selected document
  • Saved for reliable technical follow-up
  • Optional WhatsApp product support

Privacy: We use your details only to provide the requested document and respond to related product questions. No unsolicited mailing lists.

Submit your document request

Enter a valid work email so our technical team can respond to your request. WhatsApp is optional and used only for related product support.

✓ Request confirmation by email✓ Technical support available✓ Your details stay private

What are you looking for?

Search HDD tools, applications, technical guides and exhibition updates.