When Tilbury Douglas Construction needed a precise opening for a cable tray at Aintree Hospital, they turned to us at DP Diamond Drilling for a solution that was both effective and considerate of the sensitive hospital environment.
The project presented some specific challenges, particularly with the requirement for a dry drilling method and the surprising density of the wall’s internal structure. We were able to deliver a successful outcome using our specialised equipment and controlled techniques.
The space was in a live, working environment, which meant that a standard wet drilling method, which can generate a lot of slurry and mess, was not a viable option.
The brief was clear: the work had to be completed using a dry drilling process to maintain a clean and safe workspace, with minimal disruption to the hospital's operations. Our team was brought in to provide a precise and professional solution that met these requirements.
As our team got started on the project, we quickly realised this wasn't going to be a straightforward job.
The wall was a lot tougher than we first thought, absolutely packed with a significant amount of 32mm reinforcement steel. This was a real hurdle for our dry drilling approach. We knew we needed a powerful and precise method to get through it without damaging the surrounding structure or our equipment.
The density of the steel also meant that the work would take longer than a typical stitch-drilling job. A project we initially estimated to be a one-day task evolved into a two-day operation to ensure precision and safety.
To tackle this tricky brief, we brought in our specialist dry drilling equipment. We used a new Weka dry core drill, a powerful bit of kit that allowed us to cut through the dense material and reinforcement steel without any fuss.
The best part was that we paired the drill with a Hilti dry vac. This system was vital for capturing all the dust created during the drilling, which meant the hospital stayed clean and free from airborne debris. This combination of tools allowed us to perform the stitch-drilling with all the precision needed, and we were able to keep to the strict safety and cleanliness standards of the site.
Our skilled team started the job by carefully marking out the opening for the cable tray. We then began to stitch-drill the perimeter, which is a process of drilling a series of overlapping holes to create a clean opening.
Since the wall contained so much 32mm reinforcement steel, our team had to work slowly and deliberately. This controlled approach allowed the diamond drill to do its work without being forced, which was essential for successfully cutting through both the steel and the concrete.
With the Hilti dry vac working continuously, all dust was captured at the source, leaving a pristine and tidy workspace. The entire process took two days, but the result was a perfectly formed opening that was ready for the cable tray installation. This methodical approach ensured the integrity of the surrounding wall was preserved and the client's brief was fulfilled to the highest standard.
We provided a solution that not only met the technical requirements of the job but also addressed the specific needs of the sensitive working environment. Our commitment to using the right equipment for the job, paired with our operatives' expertise, meant we could overcome unexpected obstacles and still achieve a flawless finish.
Do you have a project that requires precise drilling, sawing, or material removal?
Our experienced team is ready to help you find the perfect solution. We offer a wide range of services for both commercial and domestic clients, providing expert advice and flawless execution every time. If you need a reliable, professional partner for your next project, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us to discuss your requirements or learn more about our commercial drilling services.
