Dry Diamond Core Bit Guide

Dry Diamond Cores are used by many trades for many applications, to great effect. However, there are a few basic do’s and don’ts to follow, and some useful tips that can help you along the way.

When drilling with dry diamond cores, it is essential that the dust is not allowed to build up within the hole during drilling. If the dust is allowed to build-up, it can lead to a number of issues.

The most serious, is the core becoming ‘jammed’ within the hole. This will cause the machine to ‘kick’ and potentially injure the user if the machine is not fitted with a safety clutch. In order for the safety clutch to operate correctly, the manufacturer supplied side handle, must be fitted to the machine.

There is an increased risk of the core jamming in the wetter, winter months when the bricks and blocks have absorbed moisture. The damp dust can form a paste around the core body during the drilling process, increasing the risk of the core becoming stuck. To reduce the risk of this happening – periodically withdraw (almost completely, making sure that the core continues to spin) the bit from the hole and allowing the debris to fall away and disburse. This should be done for every inch of material penetration. In drier, less problematic conditions clearing the hole every couple of inches is sufficient, as the dust is less likely to bind to the core body.

Dry Diamond Core Bit Do's

• Always use the appropriate PPE
• Select the right core for the application
• Wherever possible, use a dedicated diamond core machine with a mechanical or electronic safety clutch
• Always use the side handle provided with the machine
• Eject the pilot drill once you have drilled approximately ½” into the material
• During the drilling process, clear the debris from the hole by periodically, partially withdrawing the bit and allowing any debris to escape, reducing the risk of the core becoming jammed into the hole
• Apply, only sufficient pressure to keep the core in contact with the material surface and allow the core to do the work.
• Forcing the core will have a negative impact on the drilling speed and life of the core
• IF, the core does become jammed in the hole, remove the core manually. In these situations, using the power of the machine to free the core WILL result in damage to the machines safety clutch
• Continue to rotate the core whilst withdrawing from the hole

Dry Diamond Core Bit Don'ts

• Use hammer action when drilling with a dry diamond core
• Apply excessive pressure whilst drilling. This will only reduce the drilling speed and potentially cause harm to the machine
• Make long continuous drilling motions without clearing the debris by partially withdrawing from the hole
• Drill hard materials such as cast concrete, granite or porcelain