Drilling LR

Capt_Cully

Capt_Cully

Active member
What bits are you guys using when you drill LR. Everytime I've tried it, I end up splitting the rock. Should I be using an impact drill? I kinda want to buy a new set of drills anyway.

Can you use regular tile thinset to help stick your aquascape together (so long as it has an appropriate skeleton [PVC rods or tubing])?
Is it "reef safe"?
 
I've seen the diamond bits in the tile section of homedepot.
I would think those would be a cheap alternative.

I could/should probably do that with some of my rockwork.
 
I'm not spending 2 months salary on anything ever again!

Seriously though, can I get what I need at HD or Lowes? They'd have to be fairly long. Some of the base rock I have that will be the foundation is quite dense and thick.

Do I need an impact driver?
 
I have no experience drilling rock, but everything I've read in the DIY forum says you can use a regular drill with a quality masonry bit. I plan to try it on my upcoming build.
 
depending on the size of the hole I would think a smaller masonry bit would work but if you want to take 1/2 inch pvc and go through I would think diamond bits are the way to go. I think they are like 20 bucks
 
I've used carbide tipped masonary drills. If you have an impact drill it'll make the job go faster. I believe that if you use thin set you'll have to age/cure the material adequately before using it in the tank. Thin set mortar is very alkaline. I used epoxy to hold the rocks in place once pinned.
 
carbide tip mason bit works for me. NO hammer drill. If you have a HEP near your they have carbide bits really cheap IMO. They aren't going to last forever but they are great if you are not a professional who wants them to last a lifetime.


I used zip tie to hold things together. Drilled some holes, put in some PVC pipe, slipped the zip ties through a couple of holes that won't seen.

Dave
 
Agree with 450reef, tile or glass drills are the way to go, and an extension if necessary. I'd actually try it without an impact drill. While yes, it will burn through it faster, the extra vibrations risk cracking the rock. Going slow/light with the pressure on the bit, and as high speed as you can will offer better results. My drill has a high-speed low-torque setting that I'd use if I were doing it. Think somewhere between drill and dremmel speed.

Edit: don't forget the face sheild if it's really live rock. You don't want any of that spatter getting in your mouth/nose/eyes
 
Awesome video! I plan on drilling some rock this Sunday with a 1/2" masonry bit to accept 1/2" fiberglass rod. I'll see how it goes!
 
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