CENTRAL OILER

239 363 08B CENTRAL OILER Positioned at the front of the feed beam, this centralizer provides the initial guidance for the drill steel. Its main job is to hold the rod steady as it begins to penetrate the rock, which is crucial for starting a straight hole. Without proper centering, impact energy can be lost and the drill string is subjected to bending forces, leading to premature wear on the rods and shank adapter.

A worn centralizer directly impacts drilling efficiency and costs. You might notice the drill steel struggling to collar, or 'walking' across the rock face instead of starting a clean hole. This not only slows down the drilling cycle but also increases the risk of crooked holes, which can complicate blasting patterns. Maintaining a properly sized centralizer is key to protecting the entire drill string and the front head of the drifter from damaging vibrations.

Check the centralizer for wear during every shift. A quick visual inspection can reveal if the opening has become oval-shaped or excessively enlarged. If you can see significant free play between the centralizer and the drill rod, it should be replaced to restore drilling accuracy and prevent unnecessary stress on other components.