Sometimes during the concrete core drilling process you may loose a tooth or segment from the tip of your coring bit. Let’s explore why this might happen by describing some symptoms you may have encountered

1. Debris

This is most often the cause of a broken segment. Chunks of stone or pieces of reinforcement bar can becomelodged between the segments while drilling and cause them break free.

It can be hard to determine exactly what caused it to break in this instance. For this reason, it’s important to keep drilling parameters in check such as water flow, bit speed, and feed pressure.

2. User Error

There are many reasons why segments can break or snap off, and it could be the fault of the operator.

Excessive heat generated by the core bit can lead to problems, so proper water flow is important to keep the bit cool and lubricated. Use the correct drill type and speed for the diameter of your core. Properly anchor your drill rig as an improperly anchored drill rig can cause excessive bit vibration.When drilling through a concrete slab, pull up before the bit hits the fill or debris beneath because this can damage the segments.

3. Manufacturing Defect

It is possible that one or more segments were improperly fixed to the barrel of the core bit. All diamond core bits are either brazed or laser welded. If this is the case, the surface of the core bit barrel and broken segment will look and feel smooth where they broke apart. A defective bit will likely break within the first hole.

These are just a few tips and are not a comprehensive guide to core drilling. Feel free to contacts if you are still having troubles.

Happy Coring!