Diamond Core Bits Technical Guide

SLOW DRILLING MAY OCCUR FOR VARTOUS REASONS:
  • Know the aggregate for your area. Some concrete can be cut as fast as 6 inches per minute and as slow as a 1/2 inch per minute.
  • Poor power source. The drill motor may not be powerful enough for the size bit you are using, thirty AMP service recommended.
  • Check to see if the rig is anchored properly.
  • The bit may be polished. This could be caused by improperly drilling through steel or very hard aggregate. Use a sharpening pot system or try turning off the water, and drill about a ½ inch or less, then let the bit run without any pressure on it for about a minute. This should expose new diamonds so the bit will cut better.

BINDING OF BIT

    Occasionally, a rebar will unseat while a bit is cutting, causing the bit to bind. If this occurs, uncouple the bit from the rig and use a wrench on the large hexagon hub. Work the bit backwards until it becomes free. Remove bit from hole. Clean and flush loose cutting from hole and inside diameter of bit before returning bit to hole. Continue the drilling operation.

WHEN BIT IS WEARING FAST

  • Again make sure rig is in good condition and anchored properly.
  • The concrete may be very abrasive. Change to bit with a harder matrix.
  • Take note on how much steel is present during drilling. If there is a large amount, shorter life is expected.

WHEN BIT IS DAMAGED

When drilling through pre-stressed concrete, damage to bits can be expected especially with smaller bits. Drill through cable with largest bit
permissible.
Bit lost clearance/Motor is overloading. poor anchoring system and bit should be aligned with mast.
Excessive hammering on barrels to remove core. Use more water when drilling to lubricate core. If core does not fall out easily with motor turned off and water continually, reach up barrel to raise and turn core slightly. Continue to do this until core slides out.

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