There are two rules for drilling hard materials. First, the harder the material, the greater the
pressure you need to apply to the tool. Second, the harder the material, the slower the speed
should be. If the hole to be drilled is fairly large, drill a smaller hole first, and then enlarge to
the required size with a larger bit; it's often faster in the long run.
Wood Drilling
For maximum performance, use high-speed
steel or brad-point bits for wood drilling.
Begin drilling at a very low speed to prevent
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the bit from slipping off the starting point.
Increase speed as the drill bit bites into the
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material.
When drilling "through" holes, secure a block
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of wood behind the workpiece to prevent
ragged or splintered edges on the back side
of the workpiece (Fig. 11).
NOTICE: Bits may overheat unless reversed
and pulled out frequently to clear chips from
flutes.
Metal Drilling
For maximum performance, use high-speed steel bits for metal or steel drilling.
When drilling metals, use light oil on the drill bit to keep it from overheating. The oil will
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prolong the life of the bit and increase the drilling action.
Begin drilling at a very low speed to prevent the bit from slipping off the starting point.
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Maintain a speed and a pressure that allow cutting without overheating the bit. Applying too
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much pressure will:
Overheat the Drill.
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Wear the bearings.
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Bend or burn bits.
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Produce off-center or irregularly shaped holes.
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Driving Screws (Fig . 12)
Try to use standard-type screws for easy
driving and improved grip.
a. Install the correct driver bit.
b. Ensure that the torque-adjustment ring is set
to the most suitable setting. If in doubt, start
with a low setting and gradually increase
the setting as necessary. Do not change the
torque setting when the tool is running.
c. Use the correct speed range for the job
and initially apply minimal pressure to the
variable speed trigger switch. Increase
the speed only when full control can be
maintained.
d. It is advisable to drill a pilot hole first. This
hole should be slightly longer than the screw to be driven and just smaller than the shank
diameter of the screw. The pilot hole will act as a guide for the screw and will also make
Fig . 11
.
Fig . 12
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