A concrete core drill allows you to dig down into concrete and retrieve samples that are taken directly from the concrete itself. This can be incredibly useful when trying to create service openings for M&E applications or to figure out the best possible solution to a concrete problem, such as the right mix of ingredients or curing time and temperature. Here’s everything you need to know about concrete core drilling, including what it is and how it works, along with some helpful hints on the best way to go about core drilling.
What is concrete core drilling?
Core drilling is a technique used in the construction industry to create openings for M&E applications. It is also used for concrete sample analysis, as well as for anchoring purposes. These drills are often used on concrete slabs or on ceilings, but are also commonly found on walls and floors that need additional structural support.
How it works?
Think of a concrete core drill as a long, hollow tube with cutting teeth on the inside of the tube. The drill is lowered into the ground and rotated in order to cut out a cylindrical core sample. Cores are taken at various depths, but typically not more than 20 feet below the surface. Once a hole has been drilled and cleared by drilling equipment operators, the entire length of core tube is pushed downward into the hole until it meets resistance or when it reaches its maximum depth. Then it is slowly pulled back up again (along with any dirt that was loosened) so that it can be removed from the hole without spilling any soil or contaminating samples from deeper down in the hole.
Considerations when planning a core drill job
- Preparing the site for a core drill job is vital. Some of the things you need to know before drilling are the depth, width and length of the hole. It’s also important to consider where you will be drilling from in relation to any underground utilities or obstructions that may be in your way. We’d suggest doing a Xradar Concrete Scanning beforehand to determine coring location to avoid cutting through important utilities and bars.
- Choosing the right type of drill is also a critical decision that can make or break your core drill job. Concrete core drills can range from relatively small to larger sizes, including those that produce hole diameters of up to 600mm. Smaller core drills can be utilized for anchor points, while larger ones may be used for ventilation shafts or as conduits. What’s important is making sure you select the right drill bit type according to your project’s needs.
How to maintain proper noise and dust levels during the concrete core drill job
A common misconception is that core drilling creates smoke, dust and noise. While on a grander scale, it can cause some problems for those nearby, in fact core drillers can be vibration and dust-free using technology such as our Sonicon Diamond Concrete Coring. This means we’re environmentally compliant with minimal disruption. We also have an air filtration system which helps keep surrounding areas as clean as possible.
Our Sonicon Diamond Concrete Core drilling services create openings for water piping, fire fighting piping, kitchen hood ducting, air conditioner duct, cables for telecommunication, concrete sample analysis and others. We offer experience and expertise in all types of coring work for concrete slabs, walls, beams, and also for granites. Our coring capacity ranges from 16mm diameter right up to 600mm diameter and up to a depth of 16 metres. If you’re looking for a top-notch concrete coring service, give us a call today!