Drill Press

How To

Video / Tutorial

Instruction

  1. What it does best:
    • Makes round holes of varying depths and diameters
  2. Allowed Materials:
    • Wood, foam, MDF, most plastics.
    • Ask for assistance with drilling metal
    • Other materials possible, inquire with TA/Staff member
  3. Basic use:
    • Choose the correct drill bit from the cabinet to the left of the machine and install it carefully and completely into the drill chuck
    • Consult the speed chart above the drill cabinet and manually adjust the speed using the levers on the lefthand side of the drill press
    • Adjust the table of the drill press to the optimal height for your drilling operation. Make sure it is locked in place before drilling.
    • When drilling, secure your material to the table while drilling. Wood and foam can be held by hand. Metals and most plastics should be clamped in place.
  4. Safety Reminders:
    • Stock must be held firmly in place before drilling . NEVER allow your material to move while it is engaged with the rotating bit
    • Fingers must NEVER be within 2 inches of the rotating drill bit or any moving part of the drill press.
    • When positioning your stock on the work table always have the longer section of stock situated to the lefthand side.
    • Never leave the chuck key in the drill chuck after use
    • Verify that the bit you are using is appropriate for the material you are drilling
    • Verify that the speed is set correctly on the drill press for both the material and bit size you are using
    • All round stock must be secured firmly in place in a vise before drilling. To drill in the center of round stock ask a Lab staff member for assistance
    • Always drill into a perpendicular surface with twist drills. If drilling into an angled or uneven surface ask a TA or supervisor for assistance.
  5. Finishing:
    • Remove the workpiece and any offcuts from the table.
    • Clean the saw and remove any debris from the table and surrounding area.
    • Leave the drill chuck key in the bottom drawer of the drill cabinet

Required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

  • Eye Protection: Safety glasses
  • Ear Protection: None required
  • Respiratory Protection: None required
  • Body Coverings: None required, and gloves are never allowed when using power tools

Engineering Controls

  • Clamps to secure the material in place