Core Drill Extensions

About Core Drill Extensions

Core drill extensions are precision-engineered accessories that significantly extend the reach and versatility of diamond core drilling equipment. These heavy-duty components attach between your drill motor and core bit, enabling you to drill through thicker walls, deeper concrete structures, or access confined spaces where standard setups cannot reach. Available in various lengths from 300mm upwards, core drill extensions are manufactured from hardened steel to withstand the intense torque and vibration associated with professional diamond drilling operations.

MyToolShed.co.uk stocks core drill extensions from leading brands including Bosch Professional, Makita, Coreplus, Marcrist and Faithfull, featuring multiple connection types to suit different drilling systems. You'll find options with 1/2" BSP threads, 1 1/4" UNC connections, SDS adaptors and hex fittings, ensuring compatibility with your existing core drilling equipment whether you're running professional 240v drilling machines or heavy-duty SDS rotary hammers.

Applications

Core drill extensions are essential tools for numerous trades and drilling applications:

• Electricians: Installing cable penetrations and conduit runs through thick cavity walls and deep concrete structures
• Plumbers and Heating Engineers: Creating pipe passages through masonry for central heating systems and water supply installations
• HVAC Technicians: Drilling ventilation ducts and air conditioning line penetrations through external walls
• General Builders: Core drilling for structural penetrations and service entries in construction projects
• Diamond Drilling Contractors: Professional drilling operations on commercial and industrial sites requiring extended reach
• Maintenance Engineers: Retrofitting services in existing buildings where standard drilling depth is insufficient
• Groundworkers: Creating drainage holes through deep concrete foundations and floor slabs

Choosing The Right Core Drill Extensions

Connection Type: Identify your equipment's thread or fitting specification first. Common UK standards include 1/2" BSP for professional diamond drilling machines, 1 1/4" UNC for heavy-duty systems, and SDS adaptors for rotary hammer drills. Ensure both ends match your drill motor and core bit connections.

Extension Length: Select the appropriate length for your wall thickness or drilling depth requirements. Standard extensions range from 300mm to 600mm, with the option to couple multiple extensions for greater reach, though this may reduce stability and accuracy.

Build Quality: Professional-grade extensions from brands like Bosch, Makita and Marcrist feature precise tolerances and hardened steel construction that minimise wobble and vibration. Quality extensions deliver cleaner holes and protect expensive diamond bits from premature wear.

Wet or Dry Drilling: Consider whether you need through-feed water channels for wet drilling applications, essential for cooling diamond bits and dust suppression on professional sites. MyToolShed.co.uk offers both standard and water-feed compatible extensions depending on your requirements.

Safety Information

Stability and Control: Extensions increase drilling assembly length, creating additional torque that can be difficult to control if the bit binds. Always maintain a firm grip and consider using a drill stand for longer extensions to prevent dangerous kickback.

Dust Control: Core drilling generates respirable crystalline silica dust, a serious health hazard covered by COSHH regulations. Use proper dust extraction equipment or wet drilling methods to suppress airborne particles, and wear FFP3-rated respiratory protection when required.

Hidden Services: Always check for concealed electrical cables, gas pipes and water services using appropriate detection equipment before drilling. Hitting hidden services can result in serious injury, fire or flooding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I connect multiple extensions together for extra drilling depth?

Yes, many core drill extensions can be coupled together to achieve greater depth. However, each additional extension reduces stability and increases wobble risk, potentially resulting in oversized or inaccurate holes. For best results, use the shortest extension that achieves your required depth, and always use a drill stand when working with multiple extensions.

Are core drill extensions compatible across different brands?

Compatibility depends on thread standards. Extensions using standard BSP or UNC threads are generally interchangeable between brands, allowing you to mix equipment. However, some manufacturers use proprietary connections. Always check thread specifications before purchasing to ensure compatibility with your existing kit.

What's the difference between SDS extensions and threaded extensions?

SDS extensions feature quick-change shanks designed for rotary hammer drills, ideal for occasional use or smaller diameter drilling. Threaded extensions (BSP/UNC) are designed for dedicated core drilling machines, offering greater stability and torque transmission for larger diameter holes and continuous professional use.