5 Mistakes to Avoid When Using SDS Chisels

SDS chisels are extremely drill bits that can be used for a variety of tasks - especially heavy-duty work such as breaking up concrete, removing brickwork and working with tough masonry for renovation or demolition. While these bits are highly effective at getting even the toughest of jobs done, they need to be used properly to get the best results. If they’re not used correctly, SDS chisels can cause damage to your bit, drill or workpiece. Using them incorrectly can also pose a major safety hazard, cause expensive project delays and give you a lot more hassle. 

Knowing the most common mistakes to watch out for when using these bits will go a long way in using them properly, without any issues. In this guide, we’ll share some of the biggest mistakes that you’ll want to avoid.

Common SDS Chisel Mistakes to Avoid

Wondering how not to use SDS chisels? Here are just a few things to avoid if you want to get the most from your project.

Using the wrong chisel

There are a variety of chisel bits available, each designed for a specific purpose. Some types are used for breaking up concrete, while others are better suited for removing brickwork. For materials such as stone, you will need other types of chisel bits. Knowing which type to use for the material you are drilling is essential. Using the wrong chisel is the fastest way to damage the bit, your tools or your material. If you’re in the middle of industrial or commercial renovation work, this can result in major setbacks (and lost costs). Always take a moment to read the recommended usage guidelines on selection charts so that you know whether your chisel is safe to use on the material you are drilling. This will save you a huge deal of money, stress and time.

Applying excessive pressure

These bits are powerful and designed to break through heavy materials. They are used in hammer drills, which allow them to get through materials easily. If you use too much pressure, there is a bigger risk of broken chisels. Your drill is more likely to overheat and you are more likely to end up with chips, cracks and safety hazards. When using power tools like hammer drills and powerful bits, the goal is to work evenly, letting the drill do the work. Rather than trying to force the bit, use light pressure and the recommended speed, so that you can get through the material without problems.

Drilling too fast

Another mistake is assuming that you should be working at top speed. Just as using excessive pressure will damage your chisel, drill and workpiece, using high speeds can cause the same level of damage. You may find that your chisel overheats due to friction as you drill. You may find that your drill loses power as it tries to work too hard as you drill or you may find that your material is damaged as it is harder to maintain control. It goes without saying that drilling too fast is a disaster in the making as far as safety is concerned - especially if you are also using too much pressure.

Overheating the drill

The most common causes of overheated drills include applying too much pressure or using too much speed as you work. But using the wrong chisels can also cause overheating. When working with any power tool, overheating is something that will happen, unless you are careful to keep your drill cool as you work. Ignoring signs of overheating, such as smoke, too many sparks or the feeling of a drill getting too hot, even when you are wearing gloves, is a big mistake. Use cooling and lubricant when you work, stop every now and then to allow the chisel to cool and pay attention to avoid the first warning signs that your drill is getting too hot.

Ignoring safety protocol

Last but not least, safety is something that should be a major priority, whether you’re working with SDS chisels or any other drill bits. As chisels are mainly used for renovation, demolition, clearing of walls and other heavy-duty work, safety is a big concern. Using hammer drills and chisels without taking precautions can be deadly. Never treat safety protocols as ‘nice to have’. Use safety gloves, safety glasses, a dust mask, and clothing that will not catch on anything as you work. Boots and other protective clothing are also recommended. 

At Ruwag, we offer a selection of quality SDS chisels for every project, giving you peace of mind knowing that your bits are made to last.