Master's Thesis: Tribological Testing of Rock Drilling Tools

Are you ready to explore how materials behave under extreme conditions? Join us in developing smarter, more durable solutions for rock drilling tools in some of the world's toughest environments.

Project overview

Wear failure in rock tools is a major challenge in mining, tunneling, and construction. Tools like drill bits and cutters face intense mechanical stress and abrasive contact, leading to wear mechanisms such as abrasion, adhesion, fatigue, and thermal degradation.

By studying wear patterns and failure modes, engineers can improve material selection and tool design – enhancing performance and sustainability in rock drilling operations.

Background and scope of the project
Case-hardened steels are commonly used in rock drilling due to their wear resistance. Enhancing their surface properties through tribological protection systems - such as carburizing, hardfacing welding, and advanced coatings - can significantly improve performance and service life.

This thesis aims to systematically evaluate the erosion and impact of wear resistance of various surface protection methods applied to steels. The study combines laboratory testing with pilot-scale validation on rock drilling tools.

Work description
The objectives of this Master Thesis are as follows:

• Investigate and compare different tribological protection systems:
  • Carburizing
  • Hardfacing welding
  • Thermal spray coatings
  • Other emerging surface treatments
• Perform erosion wear testing using standardized lab methods.
• Conduct impact wear testing to simulate dynamic loading conditions.
• Analyse wear mechanisms using microscopy and surface characterization techniques.
• Applying selected protection systems on rock drilling tools under pilot-scale validation.
• Provide recommendations for optimal surface protection strategies.

The methodology planned for this project can be classified generally as follows:

• Sample preparation with various surface treatments.
• Erosion and impact wear testing using lab-scale equipment.
• Surface analysis: SEM, EDS, profilometry, hardness testing.
• Comparative performance evaluation.
• Pilot-scale testing on rock drilling tools (optional, depending on project scope and timeline).

We offer:

• Hands-on experience in advanced wear testing and surface engineering.
• Access to state-of-the-art lab facilities and expert guidance.
• Opportunity to contribute to real industrial applications.
• Potential future career opportunities in R&D.

Most of the sample preparations and testing will be conducted at Sandvik Rock Tools based in Sandviken. Other Sandvik facilities in Svedala may also be utilized for the experiment.

Student background
We're looking for a master's student in materials science, chemical or mechanical engineering, along with a strong interest in wear mechanisms and surface treatments. Experience with lab work and material characterization is a plus.

Our culture

At Sandvik, we're tech driven, innovative and entrepreneurial. We believe that success is a team effort so we value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where people can be themselves and reach their full potential. So, we invest in supporting each other, learning together and celebrating our differences. Visit our stories hub, LinkedIn or Facebook to get to know us further.

Duration of the project
The thesis project lasts 6 months, 22 weeks, starting January 15, 2026.

Contact information

For further information about this project, please contact:

• Majid Jafari Bahramabadi, Senior R&D Professional,
• Åsa Grönqvist, R&D Manager for Rotary and Raiseboring Tools

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How to apply

Send your application no later than November 21, 2025. Click apply and include your resume and cover letter in English. Please note that we don't accept applications by e-mail. Job ID: R