Top 10 Surface Set Core Bit Suppliers, Manufacturers, Wholesalers and Traders in Lebanon

Founded in 2005, Lebanon Drilling Solutions (LDS) has grown from a small family-owned business in Beirut to one of the country's most trusted names in core drilling tools. What sets LDS apart is its unwavering focus on customization—they don't just sell bits; they collaborate with clients to design tools tailored to Lebanon's unique geological challenges. "We've drilled in the limestone of the Chouf Mountains and the shale of the Bekaa," says CEO Malek Haddad. "No two projects are the same, so why should the bits be?"

LDS's product line includes a wide range of surface set core bits , designed with diamond segments bonded to a steel matrix for durability in abrasive formations. Their PDC core bits are equally impressive, featuring polycrystalline diamond cutters that excel in soft to medium-hard rock, making them ideal for infrastructure projects like road construction and building foundations. For clients in the mining sector, LDS offers impregnated core bits , where diamonds are distributed throughout the matrix, ensuring a longer lifespan in hard, fractured rock.

What truly makes LDS a standout is its commitment to support. The company employs a team of geological engineers who visit job sites to assess conditions and recommend the best bit for the task. "Last year, a client in Zahlé was struggling with a drilling project in granite," recalls Haddad. "Our team spent two days on-site, tested three different bits, and finally settled on a custom surface set core bit with a reinforced matrix. They finished the project a week ahead of schedule."

Client focus extends to post-sales service, too. LDS offers free maintenance workshops for clients, teaching crews how to extend bit life through proper handling and sharpening. With a warehouse in Beirut and satellite offices in Tripoli and Sidon, they ensure fast delivery across the country, even to remote areas like the Akkar District.

Mediterranean Core Tools (MCT) has been a cornerstone of Lebanon's drilling industry since 1998, earning a reputation as the go-to wholesaler for surface set core bits and related accessories. With headquarters in Beirut's industrial district, MCT prides itself on making high-quality drilling tools accessible to small and medium-sized businesses, from local contractors to regional mining firms.

MCT's product catalog is a treasure trove for anyone in the core drilling trade. Their flagship offering is a range of surface set core bits designed for versatility—whether you're drilling in sandstone in the coastal plains or limestone in the Anti-Lebanon Mountains. These bits feature a unique diamond distribution pattern that balances cutting speed with sample integrity, a critical factor for geological surveys where accurate rock samples are essential. For clients needing to drill in abrasive formations like gypsum or dolomite, MCT offers TSP core bits (thermally stable polycrystalline diamond bits), which resist heat buildup better than traditional PDC bits.

Wholesale is where MCT truly shines. The company sources directly from manufacturers in Europe and Asia, cutting out middlemen and passing savings on to clients. "We offer discounts of up to 30% on bulk orders," explains sales manager Rita Karam. "A construction company in Saida recently ordered 50 surface set core bits for a highway project, and they saved enough to invest in new drilling rigs." MCT also stocks a wide range of core drilling accessories, from core barrels and reaming shells to drill rods, making it a one-stop shop for clients looking to streamline their supply chain.

Despite its focus on wholesale, MCT doesn't skimp on quality. All products undergo rigorous testing in their in-house lab, where engineers simulate drilling conditions to ensure bits meet international standards. "We once rejected a shipment of surface set core bits because the diamond concentration was 5% below our specs," says Karam. "Our clients trust us to deliver bits that work, and we take that trust seriously."

MCT's customer base spans Lebanon and beyond, with regular clients in Syria, Jordan, and Cyprus. For local clients, same-day delivery is available in Beirut and its suburbs, while overnight delivery covers most other regions. The company also offers flexible payment plans, a boon for small businesses managing tight budgets.

When it comes to precision and innovation, Beirut Rock Tech (BRT) leads the pack. Founded in 2005 by a team of former oil industry engineers, BRT specializes in high-performance core bits for demanding applications like oil exploration and deep water well drilling. Their focus on research and development has made them a favorite among large-scale projects, including the recent offshore gas exploration efforts off Lebanon's coast.

BRT's impregnated core bits are a marvel of engineering. Unlike surface set bits, where diamonds are bonded to the surface, impregnated bits have diamonds distributed throughout the matrix, allowing for continuous cutting as the matrix wears down. This makes them perfect for deep drilling, where replacing bits is time-consuming and costly. "We recently supplied a client in the Bekaa Valley with impregnated core bits for a 2,000-meter water well," says BRT's chief engineer, Dr. Nabil Ghanem. "The bits lasted twice as long as their previous ones, cutting project costs by 30%."

For the oil and gas sector, BRT offers PDC core bits with advanced cutter technology. These bits feature polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) cutters that are resistant to impact and heat, making them ideal for drilling through hard, abrasive formations like basalt. BRT's PDC bits are API-certified, meeting the strict standards of international oil companies operating in the region.

What sets BRT apart is its commitment to innovation. The company invests 15% of its annual revenue in R&D, with a lab dedicated to testing new matrix materials and diamond configurations. In 2023, they patented a new matrix alloy that reduces friction by 20%, extending bit life and increasing drilling speed. "We're not just keeping up with industry trends—we're setting them," says Ghanem.

BRT's client list reads like a who's who of the energy and construction sectors, including multinational firms like TotalEnergies and local giants like Solidere. Despite their focus on large projects, they don't overlook smaller clients. "A local farmer in the South needed a single surface set core bit for a small water well," recalls Ghanem. "We not only sold it to him at a discount but also sent an engineer to help him set it up. That's the BRT way."

With a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Beirut and a global network of suppliers, BRT ensures fast turnaround times, even for custom orders. Their ISO 9001 certification is a testament to their commitment to quality, and they back all products with a comprehensive warranty.

Nestled in the foothills of the Lebanon Mountains, Mount Lebanon Mining Supplies (MLMS) was born out of a simple observation: Lebanon's mining industry needed bits that could withstand the country's toughest terrain. Since 2001, MLMS has focused on heavy-duty core bits for hard rock, earning a loyal following among quarry owners, mining companies, and construction firms tackling projects in the mountains.

MLMS's bread and butter is their line of surface set core bits for hard rock. These bits feature large, high-quality diamonds set in a tough, wear-resistant matrix, making them ideal for drilling in granite, gneiss, and other hard formations common in the Lebanon Mountains. "We test our bits in some of the most unforgiving conditions," says owner Tony Sarkis. "Last year, we took a team to the Cedars of God reserve, where we drilled in 800-million-year-old limestone. Our bits performed flawlessly, even with the high silica content."

For clients in the quarrying industry, MLMS offers carbide core bits , which combine tungsten carbide inserts with diamond segments for added durability. These bits are designed to handle the high-impact conditions of quarry drilling, where speed and longevity are critical. MLMS also stocks a range of drill rods, from standard to heavy-duty, ensuring clients have everything they need for a complete drilling setup.

What truly sets MLMS apart is its warranty program. ｓｅｌｅｃｔ bits come with a lifetime warranty—if a bit fails under normal use, MLMS replaces it free of charge. "We stand behind our products," says Sarkis. "In 22 years, we've only had to honor the warranty a handful of times, which speaks to the quality of our bits."

MLMS's commitment to the mining community extends beyond products. The company sponsors training programs for local miners, teaching them best practices for safe and efficient drilling. "Many of our clients are small quarry owners who learned drilling on the job," explains Sarkis. "Our workshops cover everything from bit selection to maintenance, helping them work smarter and safer."

Despite their focus on heavy-duty bits, MLMS is surprisingly flexible. They offer custom sizing for unique projects, including oversized surface set core bits for large-diameter drilling. A recent project involved a client in Zahle who needed a 150mm bit for a tunnel construction project. "We designed and manufactured the bit in three weeks," says Sarkis. "They were blown away by the speed and quality."

With a warehouse in Baalbek and delivery trucks covering the entire country, MLMS ensures that even remote mining sites in the Hermon Mountains receive timely deliveries. Their customer service team is available 24/7, a lifesaver for projects that run around the clock.

Tripoli Drilling Equipment (TDE) has been serving Lebanon's northern region since 2010, with a mission to make quality drilling tools accessible to the construction and civil engineering sectors. Based in Tripoli, TDE has built a reputation for reliability, thanks to its local warehousing, fast delivery, and round-the-clock customer service.

TDE's product range is tailored to the needs of construction projects, from residential building foundations to large-scale infrastructure like bridges and highways. Their PDC core bits are a hit with contractors, offering fast drilling speeds in soft to medium-hard rock—perfect for projects like soil sampling and foundation testing. "We recently supplied PDC bits for the new Tripoli bypass road," says TDE's sales director, Rima Khalil. "The contractors were impressed by how quickly the bits cut through the clay and limestone, shaving days off the project timeline."

For clients needing versatility, TDE offers surface set core bits in a range of sizes, from 50mm to 200mm, suitable for everything from small soil tests to large-diameter drilling. They also stock thread button bits , which are ideal for drilling in fractured rock, a common challenge in Lebanon's mountainous regions.

TDE's local warehouse is a game-changer for northern Lebanon. Stocked with hundreds of bits and accessories, it allows for same-day delivery to clients in Tripoli, Akkar, and the Koura District. For clients in Beirut and the south, TDE partners with local couriers to ensure next-day delivery. "We once had a client in Beirut call at 2 a.m. needing a PDC core bit for an emergency foundation repair," recalls Khalil. "We arranged for a courier to pick it up and deliver it by 6 a.m. That's the level of service we provide."

Customer service is at the heart of TDE's philosophy. The company employs a team of bilingual customer service reps who are available 24/7 to answer questions and process orders. They also offer technical support, with engineers on call to help clients ｓｅｌｅｃｔ the right bit for their project. "A contractor in Batroun was unsure whether to use a PDC or surface set bit for a soil sample," says Khalil. "Our engineer visited the site, tested the soil, and recommended a surface set bit with a fine diamond grit. The sample came out perfect."

TDE's commitment to affordability makes them a favorite among small and medium-sized contractors. They offer flexible payment plans and bulk discounts, ensuring even tight budgets can access quality tools. With plans to expand their warehouse and add new product lines, including impregnated core bits , TDE is poised to remain a leader in Lebanon's drilling equipment market.

Sidon Core Tech (SCT) may be the youngest company on this list, founded in 2015, but it has quickly made a name for itself in the geological research and environmental studies sectors. Based in Sidon, SCT specializes in precision core bits designed to preserve sample integrity—a critical factor for scientists and researchers who rely on accurate data.

SCT's impregnated core bits are a favorite among geological researchers. These bits feature a uniform distribution of diamonds throughout the matrix, ensuring a smooth, consistent cut that minimizes sample disturbance. "When you're studying rock formations for archaeological or environmental purposes, even the smallest crack in the sample can compromise your data," explains SCT's founder, Dr. Layla Hammoud, a former geologist with the Lebanese Ministry of Environment. "Our impregnated bits cut cleanly, preserving the sample's natural structure."

For projects requiring extreme precision, like paleontological digs or groundwater contamination studies, SCT offers TSP core bits . These bits use thermally stable diamonds that can withstand high temperatures without losing cutting efficiency, making them ideal for deep drilling where heat buildup is a concern. SCT also manufactures core barrels and sample storage solutions, ensuring samples remain intact from drilling to lab analysis.

Eco-friendliness is another cornerstone of SCT's mission. The company uses recycled materials in its packaging and offers a recycling program for old bits, which are melted down and repurposed into new matrix materials. "We believe in protecting the environment we're helping to study," says Hammoud. "Our clients appreciate that we're not just providing tools—we're contributing to sustainable research practices."

SCT works closely with universities and research institutions, including the American University of Beirut and the Lebanese University, providing discounted rates for academic projects. They also partner with international organizations like the UNDP on environmental studies, supplying surface set core bits for soil sampling in post-conflict areas.

Despite its focus on precision, SCT doesn't sacrifice durability. Their bits are rigorously tested in the field, including a recent project with the Lebanese Geological Survey to map fault lines in the Mount Lebanon range. "The bits performed flawlessly in some of the most complex geological conditions in the country," says Hammoud. "The data collected is helping us better understand earthquake risks, which could save lives."

Jounieh Industrial Tools (JIT) has earned its reputation as a one-stop shop for drilling professionals, offering everything from surface set core bits to drill rig spare parts. Founded in 2012 in the coastal city of Jounieh, JIT caters to both construction and mining clients, providing convenience and competitive pricing under one roof.

JIT's product range is extensive. Their surface set core bits come in a variety of configurations, from standard to heavy-duty, ensuring clients can find the right bit for any formation. For mining clients, JIT offers PDC cutters , the replaceable cutting elements used in PDC bits, allowing clients to extend the life of their bits by simply replacing the cutters. "PDC cutters can save clients up to 50% on replacement costs," explains JIT's owner, Pierre Saab. "Instead of buying a whole new bit, they just ｒｅｐｌａｃｅ the worn cutters."

JIT also stocks a wide range of drill rig spare parts, from hydraulic hoses to motors, making it a convenient option for clients looking to avoid multiple suppliers. "A mining company in the Bekaa once came to us needing a surface set core bit , drill rods, and a new hydraulic pump for their rig," says Saab. "We had everything in stock, and they were back to drilling by the end of the day."

Wholesale pricing is another JIT advantage. By buying in bulk from manufacturers in China and Turkey, they're able to offer competitive rates, especially on large orders. "We recently supplied a construction company with 100 PDC core bits for a housing development project," says Saab. "Our wholesale rate saved them over $10,000 compared to buying from smaller suppliers."

JIT's customer service team is known for its expertise. Many of their staff have backgrounds in drilling, allowing them to offer informed advice on product selection. "A client once asked for a bit to drill in salt formations, which are highly corrosive," recalls Saab. "Our team recommended a surface set bit with a nickel-plated matrix to resist corrosion. It worked perfectly."

With a showroom in Jounieh and a warehouse in Beirut, JIT serves clients across Lebanon. They also export to Syria and Jordan, leveraging their coastal location for easy shipping. For clients in remote areas, JIT offers free delivery on orders over $500, making it easier for small businesses to access quality tools.

Baalbek Drilling Supplies (BDS) has been a fixture in Lebanon's oil exploration and water well drilling sectors since 2003. Based in Baalbek, a city with a long history of resource extraction, BDS specializes in high-performance bits for deep drilling, serving clients from international oil companies to local farmers.

BDS's impregnated core bits are designed for deep drilling applications, where heat and pressure can degrade lesser bits. These bits feature a high diamond concentration and a heat-resistant matrix, making them ideal for oil exploration wells that can reach depths of 5,000 meters or more. "We work closely with oil companies like Eni and Chevron," says BDS's general manager, Ali Hammoud. "Their standards are incredibly high, and our bits consistently meet or exceed them."

For water well drilling, BDS offers carbide core bits , which are durable enough to handle the varying rock formations encountered in water well projects, from soft sandstone to hard limestone. BDS also stocks DTH drilling tools (down-the-hole hammers), which use compressed air to drive the bit, making them faster and more efficient for deep water wells.

BDS's global import network is a key advantage. The company partners with leading manufacturers in the U.S., Germany, and China, ensuring access to the latest drilling technologies. Their API certification, a requirement for oil industry suppliers, is a testament to the quality of their products. "API certification isn't easy to get," says Hammoud. "It requires rigorous testing and documentation, but it gives our clients confidence that our bits meet international standards."

Despite their focus on large-scale projects, BDS remains committed to local clients. The company offers affordable surface set core bits for small-scale water well drilling, helping farmers in the Bekaa Valley access clean water for irrigation. "A farmer in Zahlé once told us that our bit helped him drill a well in three days instead of a week," recalls Hammoud. "That well now irrigates his entire olive grove, doubling his harvest. Stories like that keep us going."

BDS's technical support team is available 24/7, providing assistance to clients around the world. They also offer training programs for oil and gas companies, teaching crews how to optimize bit performance and reduce drilling time. With a warehouse in Baalbek and offices in Beirut and Tripoli, BDS ensures fast delivery across Lebanon and the region.

Tyre Core Solutions (TCS) has carved a niche for itself in Lebanon's infrastructure and geological exploration sectors, thanks to its focus on custom solutions and technical expertise. Based in Tyre, TCS works closely with clients to design core bits tailored to their specific project needs, from unique sizes to specialized matrix materials.

TCS's surface set core bits are available in custom sizes, making them ideal for projects with non-standard drilling requirements. "A client in Sidon needed a 127mm bit for a geological survey, but standard bits only came in 120mm or 130mm," says TCS's founder, Karim el-Hajj. "We designed a custom 127mm surface set core bit with a reinforced matrix, and it worked perfectly."

For clients in the infrastructure sector, TCS offers PDC core bits with varying blade counts, from 3-blade to 6-blade designs, allowing clients to balance speed and stability. Three-blade bits are faster but less stable, while six-blade bits are slower but more stable—perfect for precision drilling in sensitive areas like historical sites.

TCS's technical training programs set them apart. The company offers on-site training for client crews, teaching them how to ｓｅｌｅｃｔ, use, and maintain bits for optimal performance. "Many crews don't realize that improper handling can reduce bit life by 50%," says el-Hajj. "Our training teaches them simple techniques, like proper bit alignment and cooling, that make a big difference."

Geological exploration clients appreciate TCS's attention to sample quality. The company's reaming shells , which are used to enlarge and smooth boreholes, are designed to minimize sample disturbance, ensuring accurate geological data. "A university research team was studying fault lines in the Mount Lebanon range," recalls el-Hajj. "Our reaming shells helped them extract intact rock samples, which were crucial for their research on earthquake activity."

TCS's commitment to innovation is evident in their product development. In 2022, they introduced a new matrix material made from recycled industrial waste, reducing their environmental footprint while maintaining durability. "Sustainability is important to us and our clients," says el-Hajj. "This new matrix performs as well as traditional materials but is better for the planet."

With a small but dedicated team of engineers and technicians, TCS provides personalized service that larger companies often can't match. "We treat every client like a partner," says el-Hajj. "Whether you're a multinational corporation or a local research team, you'll get the same level of attention and expertise."

Rounding out our list is Zahle Industrial Trading (ZIT), a budget-friendly option for construction and quarrying clients in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley and beyond. Founded in 2010, ZIT focuses on providing reliable, affordable core bits and accessories, making it a favorite among small businesses and independent contractors.

ZIT's impregnated core bits are priced to fit tight budgets, without compromising on quality. These bits are ideal for medium-hard rock formations, common in the Bekaa's agricultural areas, where farmers and small contractors need affordable tools for water well drilling and soil sampling. "We keep our prices low by focusing on efficiency," explains ZIT's owner, Fatima Abbas. "We buy directly from manufacturers, avoid fancy packaging, and keep our overhead low—savings we pass on to our clients."

For quarrying clients, ZIT offers thread button bits , which are durable and affordable, making them perfect for high-volume drilling. ZIT also stocks drill rods in various lengths, ensuring clients can find the right fit for their rig.

ZIT's bulk order flexibility is a hit with contractors. The company offers discounts for large orders, and clients can mix and match products to meet their needs. "A construction company in Zahle ordered 50 surface set core bits , 20 drill rods, and 10 thread button bits," says Abbas. "We gave them a 15% discount on the entire order, helping them stay under budget."

Despite their focus on affordability, ZIT doesn't skimp on quality control. All bits are tested in-house to ensure they meet basic performance standards, and the company offers a 30-day warranty on all products. "We had a client return a bit that wasn't performing as expected," recalls Abbas. "We replaced it immediately and even gave them a discount on their next order. Our reputation depends on happy clients."

ZIT's location in Zahle makes it a convenient option for the Bekaa Valley, where many agricultural and construction projects are based. The company offers free delivery within the Bekaa and competitive rates for delivery to other regions. "We know how busy contractors are," says Abbas. "Free delivery saves them time and money, which they can invest back into their projects."

Looking to the future, ZIT plans to expand its product line to include more eco-friendly options, including bits made from recycled materials. "Sustainability is becoming important to even small clients," says Abbas. "We want to be ready to meet that demand."