A shank adapter is the component that transmits percussion energy and rotation from a rock drill into the drill rod string. Vikay supplies shank adapters from India in 1 1/4 inch and 1 1/2 inch by R32 and R38, and in T38 and T45 drifter threads.
The shank adapter takes every blow the drill delivers and is therefore the first component in the string to fatigue. Its striking face wears against the piston, its splines wear against the rotation chuck, and its thread wears against the rod, so it is treated as a consumable rather than a component.
The range covers 1 1/4 inch and 1 1/2 inch shanks in R32 and R38 under references including 7803310030, 7803420030, 4030013100, 4030113100 and 4040113100, and T38 and T45 drifter shanks under references including 7304420030, 7304750260, 7305750260, 7305359101, 7305359301, 7304355001, 7304758160, 7304754360, 4350113100, 4351215200, 4351215400, 4360300200, 4360300300, 4350300313 and 4350775100.
Shank size is set by the drill, thread form by the rod, so both must be specified when ordering.
- Two dimensions define it: the shank size and spline form set by your drill, and the thread form set by your rods. Specify both, for example 1 1/2 inch by R32, or send the drill and rod models.
What is the difference between R and T threads?
- R threads (R32, R38) are rope threads used on lighter rod strings. T threads (T38, T45) are trapezoidal threads used on heavier drifter and rig drilling, where the joint has to carry more energy.
How often does a shank adapter need replacing?
- It is a consumable. The striking face, splines and thread all wear, and replacement interval depends on rock abrasiveness, drill energy and how well the string is lubricated and made up.