Routine Maintenance of a Drilling Rig: Doing so saves the most money and worry

As a core piece of equipment in engineering construction, drilling rigs operate under high loads and dusty environments for extended periods. Without proper daily maintenance, they are prone to malfunctions and downtime, and their lifespan is significantly shortened. Mastering the following five key maintenance steps can reduce failure rates, save on repair costs, and ensure stable operation of the drilling rig, extending its service life.

1. Cleaning and Dust Removal

The First Step in Basic Maintenance After drilling operations, it is essential to promptly remove dust, oil, and rock cuttings from the surface and critical areas of the drilling rig—paying particular attention to cleaning the engine cooling fins, hydraulic oil tank filter, and the connections between the drill bit and drill rod. Dust accumulation can lead to poor heat dissipation and oil circuit blockage, while oil can mask wear marks on components. It is recommended to use a high-pressure air gun to blow away dust from crevices and use a neutral detergent to wipe away oil. Avoid directly washing electrical components with water to prevent short circuits.

2. Key Component Inspection

Before starting and after daily operation, focus on inspecting the three core systems: ① Hydraulic System: Check for leaks in the oil pipes and ensure the hydraulic oil level is within the standard range; ② Power System: Check the engine oil and coolant levels, and observe for abnormal exhaust smoke; ③ Transmission and Braking System: Confirm the wear condition of the drill rod and drill bit, and check if the brake pedal travel is normal. If any parts are found to be loose, leaking, or worn beyond the standard, immediately stop the machine and address the issue to prevent minor problems from escalating.