Differences Between Concrete Drilling And Diamond Coring

Carbide Cor Bits or Diamond Core Bits?

Concrete is very sturdy, making it one of the most popular materials for foundations, heavy duty walls, and many other applications. One of the biggest challenges that builders and plumbers face is concrete drilling to run conduits, including water and sewer piping. Every plumber has their own preference where core bits are concerned, so that’s where our thoughts take us today; which is better, carbide core bits or diamond core bits, and what do they mean to your plumbing business? Let’s take a look at a few important plumbing concrete tools now.

Price Point

The price point for plumbing hammer drills ranges from roughly $80 for a basic model to a little over $700 for a hammer drill with all the bells and whistles. This obviously isn’t going to break the bank, so now we take the carbide bits into consideration as well. Carbide core bits also have a wide price range, ranging from $100 to roughly $400 based on the size and type you require for a specific project.

The price point for diamond core rigs and diamond core bits is significantly higher than a standard hammer drill with a carbide core bit. A basic diamond core rig will run a little over $1,000 and a rig with all the bells and whistles will run a little more than $2,500. Diamond core bits are roughly in the same price range as carbide core bits and will run anywhere between $90 and the $400 range depending on the size and type you require.

Factors to Consider

Obviously the price point for a standard hammer drill is much lower than a diamond core rig, but don’t let the price be your primary deciding factor. Here are a few more factors to consider when choosing between a hammer drill and a diamond core rig:

• Hammer Drill: They drill or cut holes using impact and rotation simultaneously. Hammer drills are smaller and more compact than diamond core rigs and are ideal for smaller jobs. Percussion carbide bits are most often used with hammer drills because cheaper bits will not withstand the pressure of the impact created by a hammer drill. Holes up to 6-inches can be drilled with a Hammer Drill.

• Diamond Core Rig: Diamond core rigs don’t rely on the hammering action that the hammer drill uses. This means that there is no impact applied to the surface being cut or drilled. Diamond core rigs are quite a bit larger than standard hammer drills, and they require a lengthy setup time. The rig is firmly mounted to the surface being drilled. The smooth cutting or drilling action creates a lot of friction and heat, and must be cooled with water for the duration of the cut. Diamond core rigs are equipped with a water hose attachment for this very purpose. Holes up to 80-inches can be drilled with a Diamond core rig.

Both methods of concrete cutting are messy, so make sure to have someone standing by to assist in cleaning the work space. A wet-dry vacuum goes a long way in keeping the space clean whether you’re creating dust with the hammer drill or concrete sludge with the coring rig. Always make sure your assistant maintains a safe distance while keeping the area clean.

What This Means for Your Plumbing Business

Each of the types of core bits has a place in the plumbing industry. It really boils down to your personal preference and the specific job you’re doing. You may choose a diamond core bit for a project that requires wet cutting or a carbide core bit for dry application. The price point is very similar for each type of core bit, so don’t let the price point be a primary selling point. Always choose the best tool for the job so you are sure to get the results you expect.