Horizontal Coring

Horizontal Coring – Detailed Overview



 What Is Horizontal Coring?



Horizontal coring is a technique that involves drilling cylindrical holes horizontally through concrete, masonry, or stone using diamond-tipped core bits. It is typically performed using a core drilling machine mounted on walls or structural elements. This method enables precise penetration for utility installations, testing, or structural retrofitting without damaging surrounding materials.





Primary Uses of Horizontal Coring



1. MEP Installations (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing)





  • Creates accurate paths through structural walls or floors for:





    • HVAC ducting




    • Electrical conduits




    • Water and drainage pipes




    • Fire protection lines







2. Anchor and Rebar Installation





  • Allows for:





    • Post-installed reinforcement bars for structural strengthening.




    • Anchor bolts or dowels for mounting equipment, supports, or facade systems.







3. Utility Penetrations in Tunnels and Shafts





  • Commonly used to create horizontal or angled boreholes in tunnel linings, shafts, or underground structures for wiring, piping, or cabling.





4. Structural Investigation





  • Extracts concrete cores horizontally from columns, beams, or walls for laboratory testing, including:





    • Compressive strength




    • Carbonation depth




    • Chloride or sulfate analysis







5. Retrofitting and Strengthening





  • Enables the insertion of carbon fiber rods, post-tensioning cables, or reinforcement as part of a structural upgrade or seismic retrofit.





6. Ventilation and Drainage





  • Provides horizontal outlets for ventilation shafts, moisture drainage, or dewatering systems, especially in basement or tunnel walls.







Equipment and Process



Equipment:





  • Diamond Core Drill Machine




  • Water Supply System (for cooling and dust suppression)




  • Vacuum or Anchor-mounted Base




  • Core Barrels (typically ranging from 25 mm to 500+ mm diameter)





Process:





  1. Mark and Measure the drill location and depth.




  2. Secure the Drill Machine horizontally on a stable surface using anchors or vacuum base.




  3. Set Drill Angle (horizontal or inclined depending on the application).




  4. Start Drilling, applying constant pressure and using water for cooling.




  5. Extract the Core Sample (if needed) or clear the hole for utilities or reinforcement insertion.