Core Bits & Rebar
Most Core bits can cut through rebar or reinforced concrete. The process will take longer and you will need to use a lower RPM to not damage your equipment.
Core bits have a steel tube that is ductile and is a tough material. Using a core bit will increase strain on the core bit steel tube. When rotating across reinforced concrete the core bit is introduced to a concrete that is tougher to cut through, this will cause an increased rate at which your core bits will offload the synthetic diamond segments.
This means that you will get fewer holes cored from each core bit than if cutting through non-reinforced concrete.
Core drilling still remains the top method of cutting circular holes through rebar reinforced concrete.
Excelled cutting through Rebar
Here are some tips that you can use to save time and money, and improve the drilling results.
Water: Using a small amount of water can help stabilize the core bit by reducing the temperature. This will help the diamond chips to remain exposed and to stay in contact with the slurry particles.
Diamonds: Make sure the product you are using has diamond segments. Too soft of a bond might ware down the segments faster. You will want to make sure that you are using a soft bonded segment for the cut, or to ensure that you have an increased segment length.
Most branded core bits include a hard bonded diamonds that are not recommend for cutting through steel. CanWest Diamond Core bits are field tested against reinforced steel.
Pressure: Even pressure is highly important for cutting through rebar. Too little pressure will cause the diamonds to glaze over, while inconsistent pressure will cause the drill itself to glaze over. Too much pressure can overload the drill, causing damage to the motor on the core drill. If you are not sure, it is best to consult an experience concrete saw operator or the core drill manual.
Speed: Always make sure that your motor is set to the correct RPM for what you are drilling through. This will be based on the surface conditions and the size of your core bits. For instance smaller core bits often operate at a much high Rotation Per Minute then a wider diameter core bit.
Correct Drill: There are various types of core drills with a variety of motors. Make sure that your drill is not underpowered as this can cause overheating and damage your core bit, core drill, and potentially the surface you are cutting. Make sure to consult your core drill manual, the information provided on the core bit (often found on the steel tube), and if you are still not sure, make sure to contact an expert.
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