The history, benefits and methods of diamond drilling
What is a drill rig?
Diamond drilling rigs are specialist tools used in the mining, construction and geological industries. They employ rotary drills with diamond segments integrated into the blade. These diamond-tipped drills are precision tools designed to create clean, accurate holes in tough surfaces such as solid walls.
What is meant by core drilling and diamond core drilling?
Core drilling is a technique used to extract a cylindrical sample, called a "core," from the material being drilled into. This is useful for several tasks, including:
Making precise holes in concrete structures for M&E, ductwork, HVAC installations and structural or decorative features.
Removing an intact and clean piece of the material for examination. This element is particularly useful in fields such as geological studies.
Diamond core drilling makes this process faster and more efficient. As diamonds are an extremely hard natural material, the tips can cut through dense and abrasive surfaces with remarkable efficiency.
History of the drill rig
Diamond drilling is not a new process, indications of it can be found in the construction of the pyramids in Ancient Egypt. The modern iteration of the diamond drill that we know today can be traced back to the 19th-century engineer, J.R Leschot. Leschot patented a design that integrated diamonds into a steel tube, creating a drill with impressive performance; his invention contributed significantly to the progress of the industrial revolution. The design was originally hand-held but later moved to being powered by steam. Today, these drills are even more powerful, being powered by electricity.
How do you use a drill rig?
1 ) Check for any obstructions
Before you start drilling, make sure there are no hidden obstructions, such as unknown wiring, in the material you are drilling into.
2) Wear PPE
Wearing protective equipment is essential, don’t miss this vital step. You may need eyewear, ear defenders and head protection.
3) Set up stand
If you are drilling with a stand, set this up and check it is totally secure.
4) Mark the centre
Make a mark to ensure you drill the hole exactly where you need it to be, and line up the drill.
5) Guide
For added guidance, use a standard drill to make a small hole to help you be precise on where to drill.
6) Start drilling
Use the diamond drill to begin drilling the hole, keep the drill steady.
7) Retrieve and analyse the core
Remove the core ready for analysis or discarding.
8) Clean up
Clean up any debris and dust left from the drilling process.
Tasks and industries where drill rigs are used
Diamond core drills in various industries where tough drilling jobs need to be completed. This includes mineral exploration, environmental sampling and construction industry work.
Coring drills are also invaluable when plumbing appliances are used, as their precise nature allows waste or soil pipes to be run through walls.
The benefits of diamond core drilling
- Precision: diamond-tipped drill bits increase precision and reduce errors
- Speed: the drills offer fast cutting ability, saving you time
- Clean cuts: enjoy the results of smooth cuts with little debris
- Versatility: a method that works on a variety of materials
Expert core drilling rig hire
Here at PSM, we proudly supply a range of high-quality tools for hire. Including diamond drilling rig options ideal for your project. Our options include diamond drilling rigs up to 126mm/5’ , up to 250mm/10’ and up to 400m. We also supply diamond drill vacuum pumps.
Whatever your project, we are here to help provide the equipment you need. With flexible hire times and affordable pricing, PSM is the obvious choice. Recognised multiple times as Safehire Company Of The Year at HAE Awards, you can be sure you are working with trustworthy specialists.
Get in touch
Don’t hesitate to contact our helpful team with any questions about using drill rigs or hiring equipment from us. Contact us using our enquiry form or call us on 02088505658.