Autonomous solution accelerates AI infrastructure builds with 99.97% accuracy and major schedule saving.
DEWALT, a brand of Stanley Black & Decker, has introduced the DEWALT downward drilling robot, developed in collaboration with August Robotics.
The solution is described as the world’s first downward drilling, fleet-capable robotic system designed to accelerate concrete drilling in large-scale data center construction.
Addressing Surging AI Infrastructure Demand
With more than 400 data centers currently in development worldwide, hyperscale operators are rapidly expanding capacity to support artificial intelligence (AI) workloads.
According to company data, hyperscalers account for nearly 80% of global data center demand and are projected to drive trillions in capital investment by 2030.
The DEWALT downward drilling robot is currently being piloted with one of the world’s largest technology companies. Across 10 completed data center construction phases, the system has:
- Drilled up to 10 times faster than traditional methods
- Reduced construction timelines by 80 weeks
- Achieved 99.97% drilling accuracy
- Completed more than 90,000 holes
How the Robotic System Works
Powered by August Robotics’ autonomous drilling and fleet orchestration platform, the robot enables coordinated multi-unit deployment across large job sites.
The system drills thousands of precise holes required for:
- Server rack stops
- Structural legs
- Overhead mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) support systems
As a critical workflow stage in data center construction, drilling precision directly impacts installation efficiency, structural integrity and downstream scheduling.
Productivity, Cost Efficiency and Safety Gains
According to Bill Beck, President of Tools & Outdoor at Stanley Black & Decker, construction speed is a decisive factor for hyperscale clients building AI-ready infrastructure.
The robotic drilling solution delivers:
- Schedule acceleration
- Reduced cost per hole
- Near-perfect location and depth precision
- Improved jobsite safety through automation
Fleet capability further enhances scalability by unlocking higher drilling capacity without proportionally increasing labor demands.
Strengthening DEWALT’s Data Center Ecosystem
The DEWALT downward drilling robot complements DEWALT’s broader data center construction portfolio, including:
- PERFORM AND PROTECT™ technology designed to mitigate dust, vibration and enhance user control
- Industry-leading ICC anchoring solutions
Together, these tools form an integrated ecosystem supporting fast, compliant and safe concrete installation processes.
Commercial Availability and Demonstration
The robotic drilling solution is expected to become commercially available in mid-2026.
It is being showcased at the World of Concrete in Las Vegas from January 20–22.
Redefining Construction Automation
The launch of the DEWALT downward drilling robot signals a broader shift toward automation in high-demand infrastructure sectors, particularly as AI computing accelerates global data center expansion.
By combining autonomous robotics, fleet orchestration and industrial-grade drilling expertise, DEWALT and August Robotics are introducing a new benchmark in precision, speed and scalability for hyperscale construction environments.
