Drilling machine systems; benefits, tools, and general specs

Just like every other heavy-duty system, a CNC drilling machine is a big investment that companies have to think through.

In this article, we’re making a brief introduction to CNC drilling and the benefits of an in-house drilling machine.

Firstly; What is CNC drilling and how does it work?

A CNC drill uses a rotating cutting tool to create round holes in a stationary workpiece. They’re usually made to fit screws or bolts and used for assembly, but they can also be used for aesthetic reasons.

CNC drilling has similar steps to most of the other CNC operations that you get with another machine system.

You start by creating the component design digitally in CAD software. Then, you convert the design into a set of instructions, in the language that the CNC understands. This means the design will run through the CAM software to automatically code the design’s instructions.

Once programmed into the CNC machine, the code now is able to tell the CNC machine and its tools exactly where they need to go during the drilling process. Operators, on the other hand, have to install the right drill bit and mount the workpiece.

Now the drilling can begin.

Once the drilling operation is complete, the operator checks the component for any errors and/or imperfections.

Benefits of CNC drilling

Higher output

The main advantage of drilling machines is that your workflow will operate with a greater speed and get more done; making CNC drills perfect for mass production. This will guarantee you a higher output in a better timeframe.

Because CNC drilling machines are controlled by computers, they’re less likely to make mistakes. As a result, manufacturers can achieve consistent results within a batch and across batches, allowing them to produce high-quality products every time.

Most drilling machines have a longevity of up to 10 years and a really fast return on investment. Additionally, drilling machine systems do not have a high maintenance, they just need occasional checkups to keep everything under control.

Easy to operate

If operating an automatic or CNC drilling machine is a concern for your team, it doesn’t have to be anymore. Drilling machines’ new technologies have a really easy-to-use interface and are not complicated to operate. This will maintain the efficiency of your operators at all times, without the need for extensive training.

For example, our Bohrmax CNC drilling machine can be used by operators after only one hour of instructions.

Flexibility

Modern drilling machines are highly flexible (they have multiple spindles, holes can be drilled at any angle, etc). Their wide range of features and smart design make them highly flexible.

Heavy-duty CNC drills can accommodate multiple drill bits so they can be used to produce a variety of different-sized holes.

Accuracy in Drilling Machines

CNC drilling machines can drill holes that are accurate to their original design files within very tight margins. However, there are steps workers should follow to ensure that they are using their drilling machine at full capacity.

Firstly, a proper clamping of the workpiece is necessary. Then, workers need to ensure that the axis of the spindle, sleeve and tools coincide. Three factors to keep in mind before starting an operation are the type of material, the feeding system, and the cutting speed.

It is very important to know the type of material, its rigidity, thickness, and other specs that dictate how to drill the workpiece in the best method possible. Harder materials require harder bits; softer materials may not hold together and deform from the force of a hard drill bit.

The cutting speed depends on the material we are drilling. Generally, it varies from 10 to 90 meters per minute or we can measure in rpm (revolutions per minute), going up to 2500 rpm.

The feed is the distance moved by each rotation of the drill bit into the workpiece and it’s mostly measured in millimetres. The feed range varies from 0.05 to 0.35mm. The amount of metal removed is a function of the cutting speed and the feed. By using the highest possible feed rate the best tool life for a given tool can be obtained.

Possible troubleshooting in drilling machines

The various troubles experienced during drilling may be caused by various problems, but almost all of them have a really easy remedy. If you feel a problem you may be having is out of the ordinary and requires extra attention, feel free to call our team and they will guide you to the best solution.

Rough or oversized holes

The rough holes might be produced sometime during drilling. They can be avoided by:

Reducing the feed
Regrounding the point
Using coolant
Ensure the rigidity of the fixture

An oversized hole may be produced due to the loss of a spindle or unequal angle/ length of the cutting edge.

Chipped cutting lips

Chipped cutting lips happen because of high feed and high clearance angle. To avoid chipped cutting lips try a proper feed speed and proper clearance, according to the requirements of your machine system.

Breaking of Drill

Bit selection depends upon many factors including the hardness of the material, the size of the hole required, and whether the hole will need to remain open or close off. The drill may break if it gets dull, due to high feed, improper clamping, etc.

The shape of the bit determines how well it cuts. Bit geometry includes straight bits, spiral bits, chisel bits, twist bits, and roller cone bits. Straight bits generally produce cleaner walls than other types but tend to wear out quickly because there is no mechanism to keep the point aligned with the centerline of the hole. The point is to use the right equipment for the job at hand.

Drilling machines are used in almost every manufacturing industry, from construction sites to glasswork, making them applicable in vast working fields. Like any other machinery, they carry a level of user risk, so it is important to know all precautions and safety tips before operating a drilling system. Improper use can cause serious injury to the operator. If not harmful to operators, it can cause errors in production and the final shape of the workpiece.

If you want to take a look at our drilling machines or learn more about our range of products, feel free to contact our team or browse our website.