Power loss during drilling is one of the more frustrating problems operators encounter when using DTH hammers and bits. A hammer that suddenly loses impact force or fails to maintain stable energy transfer will slow penetration, increase fuel consumption, and ultimately raise the cost per meter. Many users who frequently work with dth hammer button bits also report similar concerns—particularly when drilling in variable geological formations where air pressure and mechanical loads fluctuate.

1. Air Pressure Instability: The Hidden Cause Behind More Power Drops

The initial factor to investigate when a hammer loses power is the air system. Even small variations in pressure greatly influence hammer performance. When compressed air fails to reach the hammer at the required volume or pressure, the piston cannot achieve full stroke, resulting in weaker impact force.

Common signs of air-related problems:

Irregular exhaust sounds

Hammer starts but quickly weakens

Slow penetration even in softer formations

Excessive heat around the bit or hammer casing

What operators should check initially:

Air hose connections for leakage

Compressor output stability

Condition of air filters

Moisture accumulation inside the supply line

2. Internal Component Wear: A Gradual Decline in Impact Efficiency

Unlike catastrophic hammer failure, power loss due to internal wear often happens slowly and may go unnoticed at initial. Over time, the piston, cylinder, and internal sleeves develop abrasions that reduce the hammer’s ability to compress air effectively.

Indicators of internal wear include:

Frequent stalls

Declining penetration rates even with new bits

Increased air consumption

Metallic noise coming from inside the hammer

Practical corrective actions:

Perform interval-based inspection after a set number of drilling hours

Replace worn O-rings and seals

Lubricate the hammer before each shift

Check whether the piston has scoring marks or misalignment

3. Bit Condition and Its Direct Influence on Hammer Power

Operators often overlook the bit when diagnosing hammer power loss. However, the condition of dth hammer button bits has a direct impact on energy transfer. A worn or incorrectly selected bit forces the hammer to work harder to maintain penetration.

Bit-related causes of power loss:

Excessive gauge wear

Damaged or chipped carbide buttons

Wrong bit design for the rock formation

Blocked air holes due to cuttings buildup

Recommended operator actions:

Switch to a new bit when gauge wear exceeds recommended tolerance

Ensure the bit face is cleaned regularly

Choose spherical or ballistic buttons depending on formation hardness

Inspect flushing holes to ensure efficient cuttings evacuation

4. Poor Cuttings Removal: The Silent Disruptor

Even when air pressure is adequate and the bit is in good condition, poor cuttings evacuation can still interrupt hammer impact. When cuttings accumulate at the bottom of the hole, the hammer begins to “bounce,” reducing impact efficiency.

Causes of poor flushing:

Inadequate air volume

Blocked bit air channel

High moisture content in the formation

Overly fast feed force reducing airflow

How to restore proper flushing:

Reduce feed force to allow better air escape

Increase compressor output when possible

Clean the bit air passage

Maintain a steady drilling rhythm rather than forcing penetration

5. Mismatched Components: Compatibility Matters

A problem sometimes encountered in field operations is the mismatch of hammer and bit specifications. Even components that seem to fit mechanically may not align ideally in terms of airflow, stroke length, and energy transfer characteristics.

Symptoms of mismatch:

Unstable hammering

Irregular penetration

Intermittent loss of power

With its focus on technology-driven drilling solutions, Kaiqiu Drilling Tools Co., Ltd. continues to support users worldwide with durable dth hammers and bits designed for consistent, long-lasting performance.