How to Increase the Accuracy of Your Brushless Magnetic Drill

How to Increase the Accuracy of Your Brushless Magnetic Drill

Are you tired of facing inaccurate drilling results? Using a brushless magnetic drill can help you achieve greater precision and accuracy. However, even the most advanced drill requires proper handling and adjustments to deliver accurate results. In this article, you'll learn some tips and techniques to increase the accuracy of your brushless magnetic drill.

1. Ensure Proper Alignment

One of the most important things to keep in mind when using a brushless magnetic drill is to ensure proper alignment of the drill. If the drilling machine is not correctly aligned, the bit may wander during the drilling, leading to inaccurate holes. Therefore, before you start drilling, make sure that the drilling machine is placed in the correct position, and the bit is on the right angle.

To ensure proper alignment, you can use special alignment tools or simply eyeball it. However, the best way to guarantee accuracy is by using a drill guide. A drill guide fits onto the drill shaft and has a bushing that aligns the bit on the drill's centerline. By using a drill guide, you can have better control over the drilling process and deliver precise holes every time.

2. Choose the Right Speed

Choosing the right speed is crucial to ensure the accuracy of your brushless magnetic drill. Different materials require different speeds. For example, drilling through thick plates of steel requires a slower speed, while drilling through softer materials like aluminum requires a higher speed.

When you're not sure about the right speed to use, consult the manufacturer's recommendations. Typically, the manufacturer provides a speed chart that shows the recommended speed for different types and sizes of materials. By keeping the speed within the recommended range, you can avoid overheating, prolong the lifespan of your tools, and achieve high accuracy.

3. Use Proper Cutting Fluid

Using cutting fluid is essential to drill efficiently and accurately. Cutting fluid helps to cool down the bit and reduce the friction between the bit and the material. As a result, the bit lasts longer, and the drilling process is smoother and more accurate.

There are different types of cutting fluids available in the market, and the best choice depends on the material you're drilling through. For example, when drilling through harder materials like stainless steel, you need a heavy-duty cutting fluid that can withstand the high heat generated during the process. On the other hand, when drilling through softer materials like aluminum, a light-duty cutting fluid is sufficient.

4. Secure the Workpiece

Another crucial factor that affects the accuracy of your brushless magnetic drill is the way you secure the workpiece. If the workpiece moves or vibrates during the drilling process, the bit may wander off and create inaccurate holes. Therefore, it's important to clamp or hold the workpiece securely in place before drilling.

You can use different types of clamps or vise grips to hold the workpiece. Make sure that the workpiece is fixed tightly enough but not too much that it may damage the material. Also, ensure that there is no interference between the clamp and the drilling machine's movement.

5. Keep the Bits Sharp

Last but not least, keeping the bits sharp is crucial to ensure the accuracy of your brushless magnetic drill. When the bits are dull, they tend to wander off, leaving ragged edges and imprecise holes. Sharpening the bits regularly will help you maintain a consistent cutting edge and prevent any wobbling.

To sharpen the bits, you can use a bench grinder or a diamond wheel sharpener. Remember to follow safety precautions when working with sharp objects. Also, check the manufacturer's recommendations on how often to sharpen the bits and how to do it correctly.

In conclusion, increasing the accuracy of your brushless magnetic drill requires attention to detail and proper handling. Ensure proper alignment, choose the right speed, use proper cutting fluid, secure the workpiece, and keep the bits sharp. By following these tips and techniques, you can achieve greater precision and accuracy in your drilling projects.