IADC CODES
To make it easier for drillers to describe the rock bit they want, use the IADC classification codes. The IADC bit classification is a system in which the first three digits classify the bit according to the formation it is designed to drill and the bearing/seal design used.
- First Digit: 1, 2, and 3 designate STEEL TOOTH BITS with 1 for soft, 2 for medium and 3 for hard formations. 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 designate TUNGSTEN CARBIDE INSERT BITS for varying formation hardness with 4 being the softest and 8 the hardest.
- Second Digit: 1, 2, 3 and 4 are further breakdown of formation with 1 being the softest and 4 the hardest.
- Third Digit: This digit will classify the bit according to bearing/seal type – see information on different bearing types – and special gauge wear protection as follows:
- Standard open bearing roller bit
- Standard open bearing roller bit, air-cooled
- Standard open bearing roller bit with gauge protection which is defined as carbide inserts in the heel of the cone
- Sealed roller bearing bit
- Sealed roller bearing bit with gauge protection
- Journal sealed bearing bit
- Journal sealed bearing bit with gauge protection
- Fourth Digit: The following letter codes are used in the fourth digit position to indicate additional features: A. Air Application R. Reinforced Welds C. Center Jet S. Standard Steel Tooth D. Deviation Control X. Chisel Insert E. Extended Jet

