Holemaking is a critical part of computerized numerical control machining. Whether you’re working with aluminum, steel, iron, copper, brass, or an alloy, creating precise and smooth holes is challenging without the proper equipment. Here’s how you can improve the holemaking process at your factory.

7 Holemaking Tools To Review

First, make sure you’re working with the most efficient metalworking accessories. If you’re machining aerospace parts, consider an FBX drill. Each drill comes with six cutting edges (four on the exterior and two on the interior of the tip), and you can choose between bodies that are 90mm, 75mm, and 60mm in diameter.

If you like your metric drill’s base but you’re interested in a new tip, check out the Round Shank, which SEFAS Bodies manufactures. Choose tips that are between 6mm and 20mm in diameter.

In heavy-duty drilling situations, the HTS-HTS Reducer is your best bet. It comes with the screws and rings you need to mount the drill onto your machining tool. For the best results, use our speed and feed calculator to determine how quickly you can feed material into the Reducer without affecting its quality.

Another drill that’s guaranteed to get through sturdy metals is the B343_HPG S-Shank. The bore is between 7mm and 13mm in diameter, and it’s made of solid carbide for precise but durable drilling.

If you need to adjust a hole’s size through counterboring, try the S2S Weldon Shank. This counterbore creates extremely flat holes, and it comes with a Torx wrench and screws. It’s guaranteed to work with cast iron, stainless steel, steel, and various alloys.

Pair the drilling and countersinking processes with the Aerospace Assembly Fastener Tool created by HiPACs. Rather than buying a separate step drill, attach this tool to your hydraulic chuck.

Finally, give the Drill Fix DSFP HP Inserts a look. Choose between different grades depending on your material:

• KCU40 for steel, alloys, and cast iron
• KCPK0 for steel and cast iron
• KC7815 for alloys

These inserts help remove the metal being drilled away by your machining tool and prevent your drill tip from getting too hot.

Achieve Accurate and Clean Results Every Time

Once you’ve found the best turning tool and other holemaking equipment, make sure that you’re working with the right blueprints. Ask an expert to teach you how to use Computer Aided Manufacturing or Computer Aided Design software. CAM and CAD programs both let you design three-dimensional objects, which you can then print on a 3D printer or send to a CNC machining tool. The School of Engineering at the University of Rochester recommends sketching a basic version of your 3D object before entering it into your CAM or CAD software.

Additionally, stay aware throughout the entire hole making process. Even the most advanced CNC machine can malfunction, so watch out for strange noises, jammed parts, and other signs that your drilling or boring isn’t happening properly.

Follow these tips to make your hole making processes as efficient and precise as possible.