Epiroc Launched ET55 Drill String System
The new equipment aims to improve energy transfer and durability for global drilling operators.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Oil and Gas
Epiroc has officially launched its ET55 drill string, a new system designed to replace the legacy ST58 model. The upgrade is engineered to minimize vibration and reduce unplanned downtime during drilling operations.
Why it matters
Operators face significant costs from equipment failure and operational stoppages, making durability and energy efficiency critical for maintaining site productivity. This launch adds to the company’s ongoing efforts to modernize its drilling portfolio.
The ET55 drill string joins a growing portfolio that includes the ET66, ET51, ET45, and ET38 models, with the latter three having debuted in 2024. The new system replaces the ST58 model.
The players
Epiroc
A global manufacturer of mining and infrastructure equipment focused on productivity and sustainability solutions.
The details
The ET55 drill string utilizes shoulder drive connections throughout its design, which enables more effective energy transfer into the rock. Additionally, the updated thread geometry is intended to facilitate easier uncoupling and lower the risk of stuck tubes, directly addressing common causes of operational failure.
Timeline
2024 saw the introduction of the ET66, ET45, and ET38 drill strings.
October 1, 2026 marked the official launch of the ET55 drill string.
Market Landscape
The transition to the ET55 marks a continued move away from the ST58 drill string system. It follows the recent 2024 introduction of the ET66, ET45, and ET38 models as the company seeks to standardize its hardware.
Operators currently utilizing the ST58 system should evaluate the ET55’s compatibility with their existing rigs to assess the potential for reduced maintenance. Site managers should monitor for any reported efficiency gains to determine if a full-scale transition is warranted for their fleet.
The takeaway
Reliability in drilling depends on minimizing vibration and preventing equipment fatigue. Operators should track the performance of these new shoulder drive connections to inform future procurement cycles and maintenance schedules.
Further reading
For more on industry equipment developments, see Oil and Gas.
Source note: This article includes information reported by International Mining.
