Learn about the different types of hole making tools and how to select the right tool for the job. Discover effective maintenance and care techniques to prolong the life of your tools.
Drills Bits: Properties & Uses
Twist Drills
The most widely used type of drill bit. They can drill into a variety of materials, and come in many sizes and finishes to handle specific tasks.
Indexable Drills
Designed for precision drilling and repeatability. They feature replaceable cutting edges and can be used to produce larger, more accurate holes.
Boring Tools for Different Applications
Single-Point Boring Tools
A versatile option that can be used for roughing and finishing. Designed to be used with a boring head to create precise, repeatable cuts.
Fine Boring Tools
Suitable for machining small, deep holes with a high degree of accuracy. They come in many sizes and are often used in the automotive and aerospace industries.
Rough Boring Tools
Designed for roughing out large holes and working through difficult materials. They are larger than other types of boring tools and feature multiple cutting edges.
Adjustable Boring Tools
Flexible and versatile tools that can be used for a wide range of applications. They can be adjusted to produce a wide range of hole sizes and can be used for roughing or finishing.
Reaming Tools: Smooth finishing of Holes
Solid Reamers
Designed to produce a smooth, accurate finish in a single pass. They come in many sizes and styles, and are often used in high-precision applications like aerospace and medical manufacturing.
Adjustable Reamers
Flexible and versatile tools that can be used for many different hole sizes. They feature replaceable blades that can be adjusted to produce a precise, smooth finish.
Expansion Reamers
These are used to enlarge holes with a high degree of precision. They can be adjusted to produce a range of hole sizes, and can be used in a variety of materials like aluminum, copper, and steel.
Factors to Consider When Using Hole Making Tools
Size and Type of Hole
Choose the right tool for the size and type of hole you need. Consider the material, the depth of the hole, and any other requirements the job may have.
Cutting Speed
Consider the cutting speed for machining the hole. High speeds produce a smoother finish but may wear out the tools faster. Slow speeds will produce a rougher finish but can extend tool life.
Accuracy
Carefully check the accuracy of the machined hole. Use gauges and other measuring tools to confirm the correct size of the hole and that it is perpendicular to the surface.
Caring for Your Hole Making Tools
Clean After Use
Wipe the tools clean after use with a clean and dry cloth to remove any debris and cutting fluid.
Store Properly
Store the tools in a proper tool cabinet to prevent damage and dust build-up. Avoid exposing the tools to moisture or other harmful elements.
Sharpen and Replace
Sharpen or replace the tools regularly to prevent tool damage and to ensure they perform as per requirement. Sharpen them on regular intervals.
