Core Barrel
A toothed cylindrical barrel cuts an annular groove in suitable rock, leaving a core that needs a planned breaking and removal method.
When to choose it
- Cutting rock sockets for specified foundations
- Working through hard layers where an auger is less effective
- Annular cutting with a planned core-removal method
When it’s not the right call
- Automatic core removal. Cutting an annular groove does not necessarily extract the core. Plan breakup and removal.
- Unassessed reinforcement. Rock picks cannot be assumed to cut every reinforced-concrete obstruction.
- Unstable open holes. Bore stability and groundwater need a separate drilling-method assessment.
Sizes we work with
3.5T - 35T carriers
Carrier weight is a starting point, not a fit confirmation. The attachment, mounting and operating requirements need to suit your machine.
Using your own machine or hiring ours? Include that in your enquiry.
The Right Setup Starts Here
Tell us what you need to get done. A few key details about your job help us specify, configure and commission the right attachment for your machine, application and site requirements.
- Ground: Rock strength, structure and any concrete or reinforcement.
- Bore: Diameter, depth and core-removal method.
- Drive and support: Hub, torque, extensions and bore-support requirements.
- Carrier and access: Machine make/model, operating weight, hitch, reach, working platform and relevant hydraulic circuits.
Tell us about your project.
Complex scope. Tight timeline. Compliance-critical. That's where we start.
Scope your job
Common questions
What is a core barrel used for on an excavator?
A core barrel is a toothed cylinder that cuts an annular groove into suitable rock, leaving a core in the middle. It is used for drilling bored holes where an auger alone will not progress.
When should I use a core barrel instead of a rock auger?
A core barrel can suit harder rock layers where an auger struggles. The choice depends on rock strength, hole diameter and the drive's capacity. Share the ground information and we will help pick the tooling.
How is the rock core removed after coring?
The core usually needs a planned breaking and removal step, which might involve a rock auger or other tooling. Plan this as part of the drilling method, not as an afterthought.
What drive does a core barrel need?
The barrel must suit the auger drive's torque and connection, and the drive must suit the excavator. Tell us the carrier and the hole specification so the full setup can be matched.
Will a core barrel fit my excavator?
Supply the excavator make, model, operating weight and hitch details, plus available hydraulic flow, pressure and auxiliary circuits for powered tools. We check the core barrel against the carrier before anything mobilises, so the setup arrives matched to the machine and the task rather than being sorted out on site.