What is diamond core drilling?

A form of core drilling, Diamond Core Drilling utilises a rotary drill with a diamond drill bit. As diamond is the world’s hardest naturally-occurring material, the diamond tip allows for precision in the size of holes being created. It is ideal for use on materials as varied as glass, metal, and concrete.

What is a diamond drill?

A precision instrument, the diamond-tipped drill creates the cleanest, most accurate holes. Creating holes with diameters as small as 8mm and as big as 1500mm, diamond drilling is a great way to maintain structural integrity whilst drilling, as it is a non-percussive technique. By running water through the driving shaft, a diamond drill ensures the area is free from dust, and this type of drill can be utilised in either vertical or horizontal drilling planes, depending on the requirements of the job.

Core drilling itself is a type of drilling which uses a hollow drill bit, so as to remove a core of material within the drill bit. This can be examined. It is a technique frequently used in mining and concrete work. Core drilling is a great way to be able to examine in detail a material’s properties, from its quality to its density, strength, and make-up. 

When can diamond drilling be used?

Diamond drilling is a useful and versatile drilling technique. It’s ideally suited to tasks where a precisely-sized hole is required. This means it is adept at creating holes for piping, wiring, or ducts, as well as for holes for bolts. It can even be used for sample analysis and can create a hole of almost unlimited depth. 

Diamond drills are often used on concrete, but because of their versatility, they can be used on a whole range of materials, from metal and glass to stone, tile, and asphalt.

Why choose diamond drilling over conventional drilling?

Conventional drilling is percussive. This drilling method means that a heavy tool is lifted and dropped to break the surface. Although conventional drilling can be cheaper, it can create instability in the drilled material. Other disadvantages include the weight of the equipment needed, and that the process requires water (if in a dry hole) to help remove the cuttings.

Diamond Drilling offers several significant advantages over conventional drilling. Cutting is more accurate than percussive techniques which means that there is less chance of damage that could affect structural integrity. The equipment is lightweight and highly portable and can be used in situations where space is at a premium. As the procedure is relatively quiet, it can be done in virtually any location without fear of creating excess noise. Very little dust is produced with Diamond Drilling so it creates little mess or disruption.

Confast has provided fasteners and fixings to the construction, structural engineering, manufacturing, and roofing industries for over thirty years. Covering the UK and Ireland, Confast is a top-quality supplier of 15,000 specialist products to serve these industries, with a focus on reliable, experienced, and professional diamond core drilling and saw cutting services. Need to talk about diamond core drilling? Get in touch with us today.