SDS Chisel Maintenance and Care

There’s no doubt that the SDS chisel is one of the most important drill bits for construction work. Thanks to its versatility and its ability to get through even the toughest materials, this bit is used for everything from demolition to channelling. As chisels are used for heavy-duty work, a lot of wear and tear is placed on this type of bit. Without proper care and maintenance, the lifespan of chisels is shortened. They are more likely to become blunt, which, in turn, puts more pressure on the bit. Blunt chisels can ruin material, damage drills and pose major safety hazards. 

With all of that in mind, rather than constantly replacing worn SDS chisels, you can save a lot of time and hassle by keeping them maintained.

Maintaining Your SDS Chisel

Here are just a few steps you can take to make sure that your SDS chisel stays in optimal condition for as long as possible.

Keep them clean

This applies to any drill bit. Keeping your chisels clean is the most effective way to prevent problems and keep them working properly. Over time, dust, debris and dirt build up on the bit. This can result in damage to your bits, reducing the performance. A chisel that is not routinely cleaned can become a safety hazard, increasing the risk of chisels jamming. Always make sure that you wipe down your chisel after it’s been used, removing visible dust. Doing a more thorough cleaning on a routine basis is also important. Use a soft-bristle brush to gently clear any dirt that has compacted in the crevices of the bit, working carefully to avoid scratching or damaging the bit. 

Sharpen them regularly

As we briefly mentioned above, dull bits can cause a lot of damage, not only to the material you’re drilling but also to the chisel itself, and your tool. Blunt bits can also become a safety risk, especially if they slip while you are working. Even though these bits are typically strong, over time the edges start to wear. Sharpening them on a regular basis will ensure that they work efficiently, breaking through materials without problems. 

Store them properly

Proper storage is important for every type of drill bit. For heavy-duty bits such as SDS chisels, keeping bits stored securely is especially important. Moisture can lead to corrosion, which can damage your bit. Storing your chisels somewhere dry and free of dust or other potential contaminants is the best way to ensure that they are not exposed to anything that can affect their performance. It’s also a good idea to keep them somewhere where they won’t be chipped or dented when knocking against any other drill bits or tools.

Lubricate when drilling

Lubrication helps to reduce friction, keeping moving parts operating smoothly - especially near the shank where bits are inserted. Lubricants and coolants can be used during drilling to prevent parts from seizing up or wearing out too quickly. However, it’s good to remember that adding too much can attract dust, which can lead to clogged bits and other issues.

Do regular inspections

Last, but not least, regular inspections are essential to look out for any signs of wear. This is the simplest way to check that your bits are still sharp, that they are clean and that they have not been damaged in any way. Failing to inspect your bits puts you at risk of many dangers, including safety risks and damaged tools. 

Looking for quality chisels? At Ruwag, we offer a wide range of SDS chisel bits made for every type of construction project, along with many other drill bits to suit your needs.