Proper maintenance is one of the more important factors that determine the lifetime and reliability of DTH hammers and bits. Many operators focus only on drilling speed but overlook the daily checks that keep the equipment running smoothly. Users working with DTH hammer button bits often report avoidable issues such as broken buttons, slow penetration, and increased vibration—more of which can be prevented through simple, consistent maintenance routines.

1. Start Each Day With a Basic Pre-Operation Check

Before drilling begins, a quick inspection prevents small issues from becoming expensive failures.

Key items to check:

Air supply system：ensure clean, stable airflow

Lubrication：verify that the lubricator is filled and functioning

Thread condition：look for damage or dirt on drill pipes

Bit condition：inspect gauge buttons, face wear, and cracks

Even small thread contamination can reduce air delivery and cause hammer inefficiency. A few minutes spent cleaning threads can prevent hours of lost production later.

2. Maintain Proper Lubrication Throughout Operation

Lubrication is essential for internal hammer components, especially the piston. Without sufficient lubrication, the hammer overheats and loses impact force.

Tips for good lubrication:

Use high-quality rock drill oil

Adjust lubricator output based on air volume

Check oil mist at the hammer exhaust to ensure it is reaching internal parts

Increase lubrication when drilling in dry, dusty environments

3. Monitor Bit Wear Carefully to Avoid Excessive Stress on the Hammer

Worn dth hammer button bits require more energy to break rock, forcing the hammer to work harder than necessary.

Signs indicating it’s time to replace the bit:

Gauge buttons are significantly shorter

The bit begins to drift or lose straightness

Flushing air becomes weaker

Penetration rate decreases even with stable compressor output

4. Regularly Clean the Hammer to Reduce Blockage and Sludge Buildup

Cuttings, moisture, and dust gradually accumulate inside the hammer. If not cleaned, these materials restrict movement and reduce power output.

Cleaning recommendations:

Disassemble the hammer on a fixed maintenance schedule

Remove sludge and debris from inside chambers

Check for rust or moisture accumulation

Dry and re-lubricate all components before reassembly

5. Inspect Internal Components for Early Signs of Wear

Certain parts inside a hammer—such as the piston, wear sleeves, and O-rings—wear faster due to continuous impact cycles.

When inspecting internally, look for:

Scoring marks on the piston

Thin or distorted O-rings

Smooth surfaces inside the wear sleeve

Any unusual discoloration or heat marks

6. Check Drill Pipes and Connections for Alignment Issues

Even the highest-quality hammer cannot perform well if the drill pipes are bent or the connections are worn.

Recommended practices:

Rotate pipes frequently to distribute wear

Avoid mixing pipes with significantly different wear levels

Replace pipes that show bending or cracking

Ensure alignment between rig, pipe, and hammer before collaring a hole

7. Protect Components During Storage and Transportation

A well-maintained hammer can have its lifespan dramatically shortened if stored improperly.

Storage tips:

Apply protective oil film before long-term storage

Keep components in dry, shaded areas

Use protective caps to cover threads

Avoid exposure to corrosive environments

8. Follow a Consistent Maintenance Schedule

Rather than performing maintenance only after failures, operators should follow a predictable routine.

Suggested schedule structure:

Daily：basic inspection and lubrication

Weekly：checking bit wear and thread condition

Monthly：partial disassembly and cleaning

Seasonal：full hammer overhaul

Kaiqiu Drilling Tools Co., Ltd. continues to support global users with durable DTH hammers and bits engineered for long-lasting performance and simplified maintenance requirements.