what is the price of a TSP core bit

What Is a TSP Core Bit?

TSP stands for Thermally Stable Polycrystalline diamond. Unlike ordinary diamond bits that lose their cutting edge when temperatures climb, TSP bits are made from small triangular thermal diamonds fused into a steel or matrix body. They are designed for fast penetration in soft to medium rock formations, and they are a cost-effective alternative to large surface set and PCD bits. Because they hold up under heat and abrasion, they are a popular choice for geological exploration, water well drilling, and mineral sampling.

TSP Core Bit Prices by Size

To give you a concrete picture, here is what a leading manufacturer, Xi'an Heaven Abundant Mining Equipment (TY Drill Bits), lists for its TSP core bits:

These are per-piece prices for single units, and they ｄｒｏｐ with volume. The NQ size, for example, is made from small triangular thermal diamonds on a carbon steel body and matches double-tube wireline series, which makes it a workhorse for exploration crews.

What Drives the Price of a TSP Core Bit?

Several factors push the price up or down:

• Size and diameter. Larger bits use more diamond material and cost more. A 5-inch bit does not cost the same as an NQ bit, even from the same factory.
• Diamond quality and concentration. Higher-grade thermal diamonds and denser packing cost more, but they cut faster and last longer.
• Body material. Carbon steel bodies are cheaper; matrix (tungsten carbide) bodies cost more but resist wear in abrasive rock.
• Thread and connection type. Wireline series (BQ, NQ, HQ, PQ) and special threads such as API add to machining cost.
• Order quantity. Most suppliers offer tiered pricing, and the per-piece price drops noticeably when you order 10, 50, or 100 pieces.
• Brand and quality control. A factory with ISO9001 certification and consistent QC will charge more than a no-name workshop, but you get fewer duds and less downtime.

Is a TSP Core Bit Worth the Price?

Here is where the math gets interesting. A TSP core bit costs more upfront than a basic impregnated core bit, but it drills faster and lasts longer. When you divide the total cost by the meters drilled, the TSP bit often comes out cheaper per meter, especially in medium-hard formations where it is designed to shine. For crews that drill day in and day out, the savings in downtime and bit changes usually outweigh the higher sticker price.

How to Get the Best Price on a TSP Core Bit

• Buy direct from the manufacturer. Cutting out the middleman usually saves a meaningful share of the cost compared with buying through a trading company.
• Ask for volume pricing. Even ordering five to ten pieces at a time can unlock a better per-unit rate.
• Confirm what is included. Check whether the price covers a reaming shell, packaging, and shipping. These extras add up fast.
• Compare quotes from two or three suppliers. Prices for the same NQ bit can vary by a noticeable margin between suppliers.
• Check the specs, not just the price. A cheap bit that dulls in one hole is no bargain. Look at diamond concentration, matrix hardness, and the supplier's track record.

Final Thoughts

So, what is the price of a core bit in the TSP family? Plan on roughly USD 150 to USD 230 per piece for common sizes from a reputable Chinese manufacturer, with volume discounts bringing that down. The exact number depends on size, quality, and quantity, but a well-made TSP bit pays for itself in faster drilling and longer life.

If you are comparing options, it is worth getting a quote from a manufacturer that specializes in core bits. TY Drill Bits (Xi'an Heaven Abundant Mining Equipment) supplies TSP core bits in NQ, HQ, HMLC, and other sizes with a minimum order of just one piece, and their team can help you match the right bit to your rock conditions. Send them your drilling specs and get a price that fits your project.