Core Bit Drilling Lubrication Tips and Techniques 101

There are several types of industrial water-feed equipment for professional used or recommended industrial specialized jobs. Though it may be easy as it seems, drilling using a diamond core bits (see core bit) with the knowledge of proper lubrication and techniques must be primary on professionals list.

By definition, Lubrication is the process, or technique employed to reduce wear of one or both surfaces in close proximity, and moving relative to each another, by interposing a substance called lubricant between the surfaces to carry or to help carry the load (pressure generated) between the opposing surfaces. On the other hand, all lubrication methods are not equal.

The main purpose why we are talking is that good knowledge and proper handling of lubrication may extends the core bit drill life accordingly as well as smooth results in any drilling or cutting projects.

What are the different types of lubrication methods?

1 – Clay Dam Lubrication Method (Rating: 8)

This method will provide the core bit drill of approximately 4 times that of using squirt bottle. This lubrication technique is to build a "dam" around the drill hole using a small amount of modeling clay or a similar material. This method is very effective, especially if the water extends above the side tip lubrication hole to allow water to flow into the bit providing good interior lubrication. "Pumping" the drill will also increase the lubrication at the tip. The clay can be used many times if it is stored in a plastic sandwich style zip-lock bag to keep it from drying out.


2 – Traditional Squirt Bottle (Rating: 2)

The most basic method is to use a small hose that runs water onto the surface near the hole and down into the bore hole. To provide lubrication on a horizontal surface, one trick is to place a plastic jug or bottle with a small hole near the bottom of it, next to the drill hole. The water leaks out of the bottle and provides continuous lubrication as you drill. To allow lubrication to reach the drill tip, it is important to use a "pumping" technique described below. Without the pumping technique, the water rarely reaches the very tip of the drill bit.