Evaluation of Abrasive Properties of Selected Granite Rocks and Their Effects on Button Bit Wear

Abstract:

Abrasive properties of selected rocks and their influence on button bit wear were investigated. Rock samples were obtained from three locations in Southwest, Nigeria. These samples were tested in the laboratory for grain size and circularity factor. Also, porosity, Equivalent Quartz content (EQC), Rock Hardness Number (RHN), Rock Abrasivity Index (RAI) and Uniaxial Compressive Strength were determined. Bit button lengths consumed were measured at regular interval as drilling operation progresses. Results of grain size revealed that medium feldspar granite has least average grain size varying from 0.12 – 0.14 mm. There is possibility that rate of drilling may be low while drilling through this rock. The values of circularity factor varied from 0.624 for medium feldspar granite to 0.786 for coarse muscovite granite. The mean values of porosity varied from between 0.85 and 1.33% for medium feldspar granite and coarse muscovite granite respectively. Biotite hornblende granite has the highest mean uniaxial compressive strength value of 119.48 MPa while coarse muscovite granite has the least mean value of 90.65 MPa. The values of free silica, EQC, RHN, and RAI varied from 35.93 – 51.35%, 45.60 – 67.21%, 575.52 – 821.64 kg/mm³ and 4133.64 – 7003.71 respectively. It was observed that grain size affects the void size in these rocks, which accounted for least porosity value obtained in medium feldspar granite. Average bit button length consumed varied from 15.56 – 24.54 mm for gauge button while length of centre button varied from 13.00 – 19.61 mm. Higher gauge button length consumption could be inferred that it effects the cutting, crushing and wedging of rock mineral components at rock-bit interface. The understanding of grain size, circularity factor and abrasive properties will provide adequate information for quarry to select appropriate bit and drilling machine.

• Periodical: Engineering Headway (Volume 33)
• Pages: 103-110
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/p-z5EwjR
• Online since: February 2026
• Authors: Babatunde Adebayo*, Thomas B. Afeni, Damilola J. Afu, Olaoluwa B. Ogunyemi, A. O. Omoseebi, Alexander Orunduyi
• Keywords: Abrasive, Bit, Circularity, Grain Size, Rock, Wear

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