What you need to know for professional diamond drilling?

What is diamond core drilling?

Diamond core drilling refers to cutting circular holes into masonry, brick, and concrete materials. These come in different sizes and are very popular power tool accessories for masonry workers, plumbers, electricians, and general builders.

There are many different applications why you would need a diamond core drill bit, and due to the synthetic diamond teeth, these drill bits are able to cut through extremely hard materials without sacrificing the longevity of the bit.

How to use a diamond core drill bit?

It is vital to understand how to use a diamond core drill bits. Follow the steps below to provide a clear process to ensure the drill bits are used correctly and safely.

1. Choose the right size drill bit for the job and make sure it fits in your drill.
2. Mark the center of the spot where you want to drill.
3. Clamp the material you're drilling to a stable surface to prevent it from moving.
4. Start the drill at a low speed and gradually increase the speed as you begin to drill.
5. Apply light to moderate pressure as you drill, allowing the diamond tip to do the work.
6. Once the core drill has cut around 1 inch into the material, remove the pilot drill from the core for more efficient drilling.
7. Keep the drill bit cool by frequently applying water to the surface being drilled.
8. Stop the drill once you've drilled the desired depth and remove the drill bit carefully.
9. Clean the drilled hole and the drill bit to remove any debris.

How does a diamond core drill bit fix to a drill?

A diamond drill bit typically fits into a standard drill chuck, just like any other drill bit. The shank of the diamond drill bit is the portion that fits into the chuck, and it is typically round in shape and slightly smaller in diameter than the body of the drill bit.

To insert the diamond drill bit into the drill, simply open the chuck, insert the shank of the drill bit into the chuck, and tighten the chuck to securely hold the drill bit in place. Once the drill bit is securely in place, you're ready to start drilling.


Will a diamond core drill bit cut through lead flashing?

Yes, diamond core drill bits can cut through lead flashing, this needs to be done  controlled and at the correct speed. If the RPM of the drill is set to fast, then you could easily damage the drill bit and blunten the teeth, therefore reduce its life.

Cutting through lead flashing work’s better when then the lead is sandwiched between two other materials. The images show this being done. Having the lead material sandwiched helps to keep the drill bit secure and in control so it doesn’t move across the material when trying to cut.


How to sharpen diamond core drill bit?

When you find your diamond core drill bit taken longer than usual to drill through masonry materials and concrete etc, then this could be due to the drill bit being blunt, so the diamond in the teeth need to be exposed again so the drill bit can perform at its full potential.

It is very simple to sharpen a diamond core drill bit. Simply run it through something abrasive such as a breeze block or green concrete. Green concrete is concrete less than 2 weeks old, so it is fresh and abrasive.
Concrete is loses is abrasiveness as it gets older so cutting through green concrete will help sharpen the diamond core drill bit.

You can also sharpen a diamond core drill bit by using a sharpening plate/block, which helps to expose the diamond in the teeth segments again, which will increase the life of your diamond blade. You simply drill into the block/plate, and repeat the process until the bit is sharpened.


What is the best diamond core drill bit?

If you are looking to drill a professional and accurate cut, you will want a diamond core drill bit that has the latest technology and design features.

The DART Red Ten core drill bits are no exception to this. These premium dry core bits have a spiral barrel design which allow for a swift dust removal to prevent friction from occurring. It also helps to keep the drill bit cool, with the aid of the side vents, which help to prolong its life.

They have very fast start segments, and the V groove teeth are extremely effective in reducing the friction, whilst increasing the grip during the cut. Many core drill bits have the teeth completely flat, but the V groove is new technology increasing the quality and speed of the cut.

Another major difference that DART’s core drill bits have compared to many in the market is the overall thickness of the bit is very thick. Many diamond core drill bits have a very thin body but at DART, we ensure the drill bits have a thick body so every user has a long-lasting diamond core drill bit.


We love to see our DART products in action! Be sure to tag DART Tool Group on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn to share your experiences of the DART diamond core drill bits!

Kester Paterson | DART Tool Group