One of the common queries on the web (related to machining, at least) is “What is the difference between a spot drill and a center drill?”

Since these types of drills are used for similar applications (but not the same) some explanation is warranted.

Let’s take a look at these two different types of drills.

What Is a Spot…

When milling threads (as opposed to using a tap and die), machinists often have the option of using either indexable or solid carbide thread mills to complete the job. The best choice will be determined by the unique needs of the application with respect to the flexibility of the tool and the quality of the threads it can produce.

Here’s what you need to know.

Solid…

When you need to drive deep holes into your piece, there are certain rules you need to follow if you want it to stay true to print. Many elements must be considered in hole-making applications: material, presetting, coolant, chip load, and tool material are among the many factors that will ultimately impact the final product.

Pay Attention To The Chip

Drill performance is often measured…

Increasing the performance of your machining operation not only means doing things faster, but also more accurately. The principle “measure twice, cut once” also applies to drilling through materials. More so because eros errors when cutting costly materials and parts could turn a whole piece into scrap.

When boring through materials, accuracy takes on additional dimensions. Complicated parts with holes from…

In machining and milling operations, choosing the proper tool for the job is essential. Choosing an improperly suited tool can result in a poor-quality finished product, premature tool wear, and in extreme cases, catastrophic tool failure (shattering).

As important as it is to choose the right tool, it is also important to choose a mill or drill that has a coating that is appropriate for the machining…

End mills are important tools for machinists, but all tools have to deal with wear and tear. When it comes to replacing end mills, investing in carbide tools is the best option. Cutters made from carbide are able to outlast and outperform steel tools, even those made with high speed steel alloys. If you need new end mills for your shop, take a look at all of the high-quality carbide end mills for sale.…

You may have heard it before: a distinctive, loud, almost obnoxious sound while machining: chatter. Or perhaps, if you haven’t heard it, you’ve seen the telltale sign: chatter marks, odd wave-like patterns, and other surface flaws left by vibrating tools.

Both are signs of machine…