Safety Protocols to Follow When Using Core Drilling Machines
Whether core drilling machines are used to gain insight into a specific geological area, get samples to establish the presence of mineral deposits, or create holes for large-diameter penetrations into solid surfaces, when operating this machinery, safety protocols should always be adhered to. At Inyati Group, we pride ourselves not only on the quality and reliability of our drilling machinery but also on our commitment to always maintaining high standards of safety within the industry.
How to Operate and Maintain Core Drilling Machines Effectively
Between the high-torque motors, versatile drilling bits, and precision controls, core drilling machines afford operators a high degree of accuracy. Always bear in mind that they are powerful tools and, as such, certain safety guidelines need to be followed to ensure successful and time-compliant project completion. Our specialised drilling experts at Inyati Group would like to share some helpful tips and suggestions before and during the operation of this machinery.
1. Personal Protection Equipment
Besides the mandatory hard hats, gloves, safety goggles, and steel-capped boots, it may be advisable to include hearing and respiratory protection. Repeated exposure to loud noise, especially for construction workers, can cause long-term damage to the inner ear. Crystalline silica is a harmful powdered dust that, if exposed to the lungs, leads to respiratory problems. We would suggest considering these dangers when deciding what to include in your PPE arsenal.
2. Knowing and Maintaining Your Tools
Knowing your tools, both inside and out, is an important aspect of any safety protocol. We advise that those operating the machine or around it always know where the emergency stop button is.
Inspect the drill and power cord for any signs of damage, including missing parts, wear, and tear. This may seem like an obvious check; however, if not done, it can undermine the accuracy of the drill and impact operator safety.
As bad as worn drill bits are, so is using the wrong-sized bit for a job. Always make sure that drill bits are sharp and that you are using the right one for the application.
Whether core drilling machines are used in a closed environment or in the open, always make sure that the area and drill bit are clean. Even though water is used during drilling, it still pays to thoroughly clean drill bits to maintain power.
3. Operating the Drill Carefully
Core drilling machines come with operator manuals, and we strongly suggest that you look at the exact specifications and instructions for the one you are using. Once PPE is donned, you are ready to start drilling. Don’t try to force the machine. Take it slowly and make sure that you are using the right speed and feed rates. Water is often used as lubrication, which has the distinct advantage of cooling down the cutting blades and preventing the drill from overheating.
As a closing word of advice, it is essential to exercise caution when operating core drilling machines. These tools are classified as heavy-duty equipment and necessitate rigorous adherence to proper inspection and maintenance protocols.
Partner with the Experts in Drilling Machinery
When it comes to core extractions, success hinges upon three crucial attributes: power, precision, and versatility. At Inyati Group, our core drilling machines are meticulously engineered for exceptional material-penetration capabilities and our skilled operators have been trained to operate them while taking every safety and health precaution into account. Why take the risk when you can contact us and benefit from cutting-edge technology and expert guidance that ensures every drilling requirement is met with accuracy time and again?