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What are Core Barrel Spikes Used For? 

In the foundation drilling industry, particularly in New South Wales (NSW) and Queensland (QLD), core barrel spikes are vital tools designed to improve drilling efficiency and core sample integrity. Foundation drilling involves creating deep boreholes for the installation of various foundation types, including piles, caissons and piers. These structures are crucial for supporting heavy loads in construction projects, ranging from skyscrapers to bridges. Core barrel spikes play a key role in ensuring that these drilling operations proceed smoothly, especially in challenging geotechnical environments. 

Core barrel and its role in drilling 

A core barrel is a cylindrical tool used to extract samples of the subsurface material during drilling. It allows geotechnical engineers to analyse soil, rock and other underground materials for construction planning. A core barrel is typically made up of an outer casing with an inner core tube that captures the sample. When drilling through layers of rock or difficult soil, the core barrel’s function is to recover undisturbed samples that provide insights into the ground conditions. 

Core barrel spikes: function and benefits 

Core barrel spikes, or “sharks teeth,” are sharp, often triangular attachments located at the bottom of the core barrel. These spikes are designed to enhance the drilling process by helping to penetrate tough materials, especially in rocky or consolidated soils. The main functions of core barrel spikes are as follows: 

Improved Penetration: Spikes enable the core barrel to more easily break through hard rock or compacted soil layers. They act as a cutting mechanism, reducing the resistance that would otherwise slow down the drilling process. 

Core Sample Quality: In foundation drilling, it is essential to extract undisturbed core samples. The spikes help to maintain the integrity of the sample by reducing vibrations and minimising the risk of the sample being compromised during extraction. 

Extended Tool Life: By aiding in the penetration of tough materials, core barrel spikes reduce the wear and tear on the core barrel itself. This prolongs the life of the equipment, which is critical in high-demand drilling environments. 

Enhanced Efficiency: Spikes allow for quicker drilling through difficult geological formations, thereby improving overall project timelines. 

Applications in NSW and QLD 

In regions like NSW and QLD, where the subsurface geology can vary widely—from soft clay layers to hard volcanic rock—core barrel spikes are indispensable for foundation drilling projects. These regions often require deep, precise drilling for large-scale infrastructure projects, such as high-rise buildings, tunnels and marine structures. The use of core barrel spikes in these areas ensures that engineers can obtain reliable subsurface data and drill with greater speed and efficiency. 

Core barrel spikes are essential tools in the foundation drilling industry, enabling faster, more efficient and more accurate drilling in the challenging geological environments found in NSW and QLD.