Daily Maintenance Guide for Surface Down-the-Hole Drills (Practical Version for Construction Workers)
This artical mainly tells construction workers hwo to maintain and check the surface drilling machine in worksite , so as to prolong the machien's working life.
I. Daily Pre-Operation Inspection (10-Minute Must-Do)
1. Appearance and Basic Inspection
✅ Overall Inspection of the Drilling Rig:
Walk around the rig and inspect for oil, water, and air leaks (focus on the hydraulic hoses, diesel tank, and air compressor lines).
Check the condition of the tracks and tires (track tightness is appropriate, and tire pressure is within the specified range).
Confirm that the drill rig and drill rod have no obvious deformation or cracks.
✅ Safety Device Inspection:
Fire extinguisher pressure is normal (indicator in the green area).
Warning lights, horn, and emergency stop switch are functioning properly.
Protective covers are intact (especially on rotating parts).
2. Engine and Hydraulic System
🔧 Diesel Engine:
Check the engine oil level (cold engine, dipstick should be above the center line).
Check the coolant level (expansion tank should be between MIN and MAX).
Check the air filter for visible damage. Gently pat it to remove dust. (If excessively dirty, replace it immediately.)
🔧 Hydraulic System:
Hydraulic oil level (sight glass at 2/3 of the way)
Check hydraulic lines for leaks (focus on the main pump, multi-way valve, and cylinder joints)
After starting, listen for unusual noises from the hydraulic pump (sharp noises may indicate oil or air inlet).
3. Drill Pipe and Impact System
Drill Pipe and Drilling Tools:
Check the integrity of the drill pipe threads and apply thread grease to prevent sticking.
Check drill bit wear (if more than 1/3 of the alloy teeth are missing, replace them).
Ensure the drill pipe holder operates smoothly and is not binding.
Drill Hammer (Down-the-Hole Hammer):
Inject 3-5 pumps of special impact grease before starting (to prevent dry grinding).
Listen for even impact sound (muffled noises may indicate blockage, sharp noises may indicate piston damage).
II. Precautions During Operation (Observe at All Times)
1. Operation Monitoring
📊 Key Instrument Panel Data:
Engine water temperature (normal: 80-95°C; if above 100°C, shut down immediately)
Hydraulic oil temperature (normal: 40-65°C; if above 75°C, check the radiator)
Air pressure gauge (check if the air compressor pressure is stable; 0.7-1.2 MPa is normal)
👂 Abnormal noise and vibration monitoring:
Abnormal vibration of the swing motor (a sign of bearing damage)
Is the impactor's striking frequency uniform? (Frequently fast and slow movement may indicate an air line blockage.)
2. Common Emergency Procedures
🚨 Emergency Response:
Hydraulic hose burst → Immediately shut down the machine, turn off the hydraulic pump, and replace with a spare hose.
Drill pipe stuck → Do not force the drill pipe. Backflush the air line to clear debris before attempting to loosen it.
Engine emitting black smoke → Check for a clogged air filter or fuel injection problem.
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