TEMPERATURE CONTROL

When drilling in rock for extended periods of time, air is trapped in the hole creating an “oven”, which can cause the face of the rock to “glaze over” and become even harder. For this reason, the operator needs to stop drilling and allow fresh air back in the hole minimum of every 5 minutes.

Every 5 minutes, the operator must stop drilling, bring the auger to the surface allowing the air back down the hole. Once spoil has been removed, visual inspection of teeth and pilot is needed to ensure they are in working condition and turning freely in pocket.

WARNING

Drilling in rock for extended periods of time will cause the wear parts and pilot to heat up to an extreme temperature causing them to melt or fuse in the pocket. This will damage the drilling head and diminish drilling performance.

TIP:

Try putting some water down the hole to cool it down and make the spoil easier to remove.

ROCK WEARPARTS INSPECTION

The teeth need to rotate while drilling to maintain an efficient cutting tip. The tungsten tip and tooth should be evenly pointed. Poorly maintained teeth reduce cutting efficiency and wear out faster costing time and money.

A flat spot on the tooth indicates the tooth has stopped rotating. If this occurs, you must free up the tooth by hitting it with a copper or dead blow hammer. In some cases, the tooth may need to be removed and reinstalled to clear obstruction. If the tungsten tip has been worn down and flattened, we recommend replacing the tooth.

TIP

Periodically use a soft copper or dead blow hammer to tap all teeth ensuring they are rotating freely in their pockets. This will encourage even wearing around the tooth.

WHEN TO CHANGE A TOOTH

Tooth A not been rotating in the pocket and as a result the tooth is uneven and will cut poorly. We recommend changing this tooth.

Tooth B indicates that they have been rotating in the pocket and “self-sharpening”. Tooth is good.

Tooth C has been rotating in the pocket and wearing evenly. This tooth is still good but must be inspected regularly as it is nearing its wear life.

WARNING

  • Failure to change worn teeth will cause damage to the auger body and pilot requiring a new pilot or a costly repair. Always ensure the pilot teeth are rotating and in perfect condition.
  • Do not use grease or lubricants on the tooth. Mixed with dirt, lubricants form a paste which prevents teeth from rotating in the pockets.
  • Check for slightest signs of flat spots on the teeth every time the auger is removed from the hole. Flat spots indicate a non-rotating tooth.
  • Always clean the drilling head prior to storage. Dirt will solidify over time making it harder for the teeth to rotate.
  • Regularly remove the teeth and clean pockets with a wire brush. Ideally after each day’s use. Especially if storing for an extended period of time.