If your business installs a lot of fencing there may be times when the ground becomes very difficult to work with. In fact, when you encounter limestone or other types of rock you may need specialized fencing drills and some additional knowledge. Instead of breaking some of your best equipment, there are things you can do to make the process a little easier. Here are some helpful tips to consider.
Post Position
In some cases, you may simply be able to move posts to position them in softer ground. However, this depends on the terrain. For instance, many kinds of fences require posts at specified distances apart and there is very little leeway. In other words, you may have no choice but to drill into rock.
If the problem is sporadic rocks, then an auger type drill can sometimes be used. However, this is a good way to damage the bit. For this type of job, you are probably better off using tools like percussion fencing drills. Percussion drilling can be very effective.
What is Percussion Drilling?
Percussion drilling uses a hammering or pounding motion to cut into hard surfaces. Every so many seconds a sharp heavy bit is dropped into the hole and this allows it to slowly penetrate into the ground. Some systems use percussion rotary drilling methods. This provides the benefits of rotary drilling with the force of percussion. These drills are usually driven by air or hydraulic pressure.
Solid Rock Fencing Drills
If you need something to bore through solid rock, you’ll want a powerful percussion rotary drill with a diamond tip. Air pressure or water is used to remove broken debris from the bore hole. Some systems introduce water and then suck it back out.
Pilot Posts
Professional fencing companies sometimes utilize special pilot posts made from hard metal. They are made to be driven into very hard surfaces and can be effective as long as you are not drilling into solid layers of rock. After the pilot post is hammered into place, it is then removed and replaced by a wooden post.
Attachments for Fencing Drills
Many companies today are taking advantage of the variety of drill attachments for their equipment. For example, if you already own a skid steer or backhoe, you can buy a drill especially made for your machine. This can save a lot of money on costs and make drilling easier and convenient. A trusted rock drill supplier can provide you a custom rig for your needs.