Percussion drilling is one of the oldest and most reliable forms of drilling. It is well-suited for a wide range of operations from exploration to geotechnical drilling, as well as general construction, underground engineering, and demolition. Over the years, percussion drills have been improved and modernized to meet the changing needs of the drilling industry.
Percussion drilling involves using a drill bit and hammering it against a rock surface. The drill bit is held in place by a hydraulic piston and the entire drill bit is subjected to a series of brief, repeated blows. This repeated pounding effectively shatters rock material and allows the drill to penetrate deeper into the rock face. It is these repeated blows that give a percussion drill its name.
Percussion drilling has several distinct advantages over other drilling methods. It is relatively fast and efficient, and the vibrations from the drilling can often help loosen and break apart the rock material. Furthermore, it is better suited for working in tight spaces than other methods. For example, percussion drilling can be used to bore holes in concrete, or even through underground or underwater pipelines.
One thing to keep in mind when using a percussion drill is that they can be noisy. If safety is a concern, then wearing protective earwear is advised. Additionally, due to the nature of the drilling, the rock material being worked can often be kicked up in the air. Therefore, wearing eye protection is also recommended to protect oneself from any particles that could be kicked up in the drilling.
Percussion drilling is a reliable method of drilling and is often used in a variety of applications. Although it can be noisy and create particles of material that could be kicked up, proper safety precautions will minimize any potential harm. With the right drill and the right technique, percussion drills can be an effective way to drill through different surfaces.
