With a reinforced design, Sandvik said that the Alpha 360 can last twice as long as a standard thread in the industry. Its hole accuracy also enables higher productivity in tunnelling and mine development.

The new Alpha 360 was developed to deliver excellent rock tool performance while also boosting productivity in the whole drill-and-blast cycle.

Robert Grandin, product manager for underground top hammers at Sandvik Rock Tools, said: "Alpha 360 is yet another example of our aim to provide customers with products that will maximise the output of their investments. High drilling accuracy is crucial to ensure that the tunnel gets the desired direction and profile. Straight and parallel holes also improve the advance per blast."

The Alpha 360, which is designed for 48-51mm diameter hole sizes in face drilling and bolting, features a very strong thread design. The short thread on the round rod gives excellent resistance towards bending stresses, improved bit guidance and excellent energy transfer.

The sturdy thread is guided inside the bit skirt, which enables high precision collaring also in complex rock formations and against uneven surfaces.

Grandin concluded: "As a leading supplier to the rock drilling industry, Sandvik continues to drive the technology forward. We always offer a full drill string from shank adapter to bit, designed for excellent reliability, performance and longevity."