Tips for Drilling

The primary cause of drill breakage and poor work quality is a dull bit. For best results, drill bits should be sharpened after every 4 to 8 hours of use. They should be sharpened even more often when drilling through hard stocks, fireboard, or abrasive stocks. Hand Drill Sharpeners (PN:L-106) and drilling accessories like lubrication sticks (PN: 7604) and silicone release spray (PN: SR-30) keep drill bits clean and in proper working order. 

 Another cause of broken bits is a clogged bit.This is commonly caused when drilling through bound books and glue. If the inner diameter of the bit is not cleaned out after shift change or break,

 the glue hardens and the bit may snap on next startup. Clean out bits after each use. When not in use, drill bits can be lightly oiled to prevent rust and corrosion. Also try switching to a fluted style bit to help with stubborn sluggage. 

DHP specializes in coated drills such as titanium #35, teflon and duralon. Coating allows easier drilling of vanish, laminated and aqueous coated stocks. Also available are the lubricating sticks which can be applied to the drill bit every few strokes and works like a coated drill bit.

Increase the RPM of the drill bit when drilling smaller diameters (1/8" or 3/16"). As you increase the diameter of the bit, decrease the RPM accordingly (i.e., 1/2" bits should be run much slower than 1/8" bits). The feed (or strokes per minute) should be adjusted depending on the type of stock being drilled. Generally, the softer the stock being drilled, the slower the feed. A good starting point for 1/4" bit drilling through 2" of 10 lb. stock is 2000-2500 RPM at strokes per minute. Remember that a paper drill must cut/drill the paper, not punch it like a hammer. Give the bit time to drill the paper. The drill should never turn purple from overheating.

If you have further questions about extending the life of your drill bits, feel free to contact us. We would be happy to help!