Before starting any core drilling project, having the right equipment, tools, and techniques is essential for maximizing accuracy, efficiency, and safety. Follow these core drilling best practices to ensure precise and efficient results.

Diamond Core Drilling Best Practices

4 Steps to Drilling Success

1. Choose the Right Core Bits – Selecting the appropriate core bit for your application is crucial. Esch Muscle Bits™ are engineered for maximum durability and performance in concrete, asphalt, and precast materials. Designed for both wet and dry drilling, these premium diamond core bits cut through tough materials faster and last longer.

2. Select the Proper Core Drill Stand – A stable core drill stand enhances safety and efficiency. Ensure your drill stand matches your drill motor and bit size for optimal performance. Explore our selection of core drill stands designed for various core drill motors.

3. Use the Right Accessories – Enhance drilling efficiency and maintain a cleaner job site with tools like the Husqvarna Quick Release Speed Anchor and Esch Slurry Magic. These accessories help streamline your drilling process while minimizing mess.

4. Get Expert Operator Training – Improve your confidence and skills with professional operator training from industry experts. Our training is available at your job site or in our shop. Get started here.

Core Drilling Safety & Best Practices

Following these core drilling safety guidelines ensures a smooth and efficient drilling process:

• Secure the core drill rig with a mechanical anchor, vacuum system, or jack screw.

• Never stand on the drill base without anchoring the drill.

• Use the base's leveling screws and a small level to ensure the drill is perpendicular.

• Always apply pressure when drilling. Letting the bit spin freely can round off the diamonds, causing overheating and glazing.

• Start the water flow before turning on the drill motor. This prevents water jacket seals from overheating and becoming brittle.

• When encountering rebar, reduce pressure by one-third and let the bit cut naturally—do not force it.

Download a PDF version of our Core Drilling Best Practices

Selecting the Right Drill Stand

To maximize productivity on your next core drilling project, you need a drill stand suited for your workload and application. Husqvarna offers a range of core drill stands designed to complement their high-performance core drilling machines.

Learn how to select the right core drill stand for your next core drilling job.

Mounting & Anchoring a Core Drill

Properly mounting and anchoring your core drill is vital for safety, accuracy, and efficiency. A securely anchored drill minimizes movement and vibration, reducing the risk of operator fatigue and ensuring precise drilling.

Mounting and anchoring techniques vary based on the material:

• Concrete: Use mechanical anchors or vacuum bases.

• Asphalt: Utilize anchor bolts or spikes designed for asphalt’s flexible nature.

Check out our in-depth guide to core drill anchoring.

"Opening" Your Core Drill Bit

High PSI concrete or materials with hard aggregate (like river rock or flint) can cause bits to glaze over, reducing cutting efficiency. To restore performance:

1. Reduce water flow to half and gradually increase it as the bit speeds up.

2. Add masonry sand or sandblasting media to the slurry.

3. Drill into a cement block, vitrified grinding wheel, or cinder block until the bit reopens.

4. After drilling, lower the water flow and back out the core bit with the motor running.

Water Control & Adjusting RPMs

Proper water control is critical for core drilling efficiency. The slurry should resemble chocolate milk in consistency.

• Too much water: Washes away the abrasive slurry, reducing diamond exposure.

• Too little water: Overheats and glazes the bit, reducing performance.

Adjust water flow and RPMs accordingly to maintain optimal drilling conditions.

How to Drill Through Rebar

Encountering rebar while core drilling is common. Esch Muscle Bits™ are designed to cut through rebar with minimal effort. Follow these best practices:

1. Reduce the drill’s RPMs when hitting rebar.

2. Increase water flow to flush out metal debris.

3. Once through the rebar, adjust RPMs and water flow back to normal.

By following these expert tips, you can enhance safety, efficiency, and precision in every core drilling project.