DEWALT, part of Stanley Black & Decker, has commercially launched DALE, a downward drilling robot designed to accelerate data centre construction.
Developed in collaboration with August Robotics, the robot has become available to the broader market following pilot trials and an initial demonstration at the World of Concrete earlier this year.
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DALE is described as the first fleet-capable downward drilling robot.
DEWALT stated that the pilot involved deployment across 26 data centre construction phases, where the robot reportedly drilled more than 230,000 holes with 99.97% accuracy.
The system is said to deliver drilling speeds up to ten times faster than conventional manual methods, reducing project durations by a cumulative 190 weeks.
DALE comes equipped with features that support continuous operation, including fast-swap batteries and remote monitoring for site teams.
The robot’s integrated dust extraction and AI-based quality assurance aim to keep construction environments clear for subsequent installation of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems.
Stanley Black & Decker tools & outdoor president Bill Beck said: “The downward drilling robot’s year-long pilot with one of the world’s most influential technology leaders powerfully demonstrated its ability to accelerate schedules, reduce costs, enhance precision, and elevate safety in downward drilling applications.
“Now, we’re advancing to the next phase: delivering this breakthrough technology to a broader market and empowering customers to achieve unparalleled speed, efficiency, and results on their most demanding projects.”
The autonomous platform is intended to allow economical, high-capacity drilling for installing server rack stops and MEP supports within data centres.
DALE becomes part of DEWALT’s product range aimed at addressing safety and productivity needs on large-scale construction sites.
DEWALT has produced tools and site solutions for the construction industry for over a century, while August Robotics develops automation to support various sectors, including construction and industrial fit-outs.
