Chip Blockage in BTA Drilling: Diagnosis and Fixes
Chip blockage in BTA drilling happens when chips accumulate inside the drill tube and restrict the coolant flow path. I have seen this on holes as small as 18mm diameter and as large as 200mm, and the damage is always expensive. When the tube blocks, coolant pressure spikes, feed drops, and the tool can fail within seconds if not caught in time. Problem Description The coolant delivery system in BTA drilling serves two purposes: lubricating the cutting zone and transporting chips through the drill tube back to the chip tank. When the tube blocks, both functions stop. The coolant pressure at the pump rises sharply because the flow path is restricted. The cutting zone loses lubrication, and the chips pack tighter. ...