How to Use a Rock Drill Safely and Efficiently
How to Use a Rock Drill Safely and Efficiently
A rock drill can deliver reliable performance only when it is prepared, adjusted, and operated correctly. Proper maintenance and safe drilling practices help reduce premature wear, improve drilling efficiency, and protect workers on site.
Pre-Start Preparation
Before operating a new rock drill, disassemble and clean away the factory-applied rust-preventive oil. Apply suitable lubricating oil to moving components during reassembly, then connect the air line and run the machine at low air volume to confirm normal operation.
Fill the automatic oiler with the lubricant specified in the manufacturer’s manual. Keep the oil container clean and covered to prevent rock dust and other contaminants from entering the lubrication system.
Check the air and water pressure at the work location. Excessive air pressure can accelerate component damage, while insufficient pressure may reduce drilling efficiency. Water pressure should also be controlled carefully because excessive water can affect lubrication and cause corrosion, while insufficient water may lead to poor flushing.
Inspect the drill rod and drill bit before use. Components that fail quality or condition requirements must be removed from service. Clean contaminants from air and water-line connections, tighten all hoses securely, and verify that the drill rod rotates freely after insertion.
Finally, tighten all connection bolts and test the feed mechanism. Drilling should begin only after the propulsion system has been confirmed to operate normally.
Safe Operating Practices
Start a hole at low rotational speed. Once the hole has reached approximately 10–15 mm, gradually increase the machine to full operation. Keep the drill rod aligned with the designed hole position and centered throughout drilling.
Axial thrust must be adjusted to match the drilling conditions. Too little thrust can cause machine bounce, excessive vibration, and lower productivity. Too much thrust can overload the machine, accelerate wear, and slow drilling progress.
If the drill rod becomes stuck, reduce the axial thrust. Stop the machine if the problem continues, then use an appropriate wrench to rotate the rod slowly while applying moderate air pressure. Never strike the drill rod to force it free.
Monitor flushing continuously. Normal flushing allows slurry to flow steadily from the hole. If flushing is inadequate, inspect the drill bit water passage, drill-rod tail, and water needle, replacing damaged parts where necessary.
Maintain the correct oil level and flow rate. Oil starvation causes premature wear, while excessive oil can contaminate the working surface. Operators should also monitor unusual sounds, machine behavior, and drill-bit condition, replacing components when abnormalities appear.
Rock conditions require constant attention. Avoid drilling along unstable bedding planes, joints, or cracks, never drill into abandoned holes, and remain alert for roof falls or side-wall instability. Use the opening function correctly by lowering impact pressure and keeping feed pressure as low as practical, especially when starting holes on steep rock faces. This also helps prevent drill-rod bending.
Always follow the equipment manufacturer’s instructions, site risk assessment, and applicable safety regulations.
