In Toral, we are experts in Manufacture of parts in series, both small and for large production series. To achieve this, we have machinery always ready to allow us to create not only simple pieces, but also the most complex ones. One of the Machine tools What we use is the column drill. Why this machine?

What is the drill press?

He column drill It is the stationary version of the conventional (manual) drill. It is a fixed machine, characterized by its vertical position. The drill itself is held in place by a column and, in addition, it has a base which is where the piece to be machined is placed. Thanks to their versatility, these machines allow the machining of different parts, including in series, when the tools appropriate.

Due to their system, column drills allow for holding the piece and doing very precise work, because they exert a uniform and constant pressure during machining time. The main objective of the column drill, like the conventional drill, is to make holes and cuts on the part to be machined.

But if a conventional drill can make holes, why use a vertical one? The differences between the two are considerable. The conventional drill does not provide stability, as does the vertical or column drill. Therefore, the precision varies considerably. Furthermore, the vertical drill has the particularity of being one of the most powerful when it comes to making holes and cuts in the most difficult materials. Bottom line: a drill press offers more professional work.

Vertical drill operation

This machine consists of a base, a bank either table, the column, he spindle and a head, the latter is driven by a motor. The machine head has a series of cranks manual action and move the spindle vertically; therefore, the movement is parallel to the axis of the spine.

One of the characteristics of this machine is that it requires a series of combined movements in order to carry out the work of machining. To operate, the machine makes a rotatory motion. You also need a forward movement (rectilinear and vertical), which is executed by the part to be machined. For the piece to move and get closer to the head, it is necessary that the work table be regulated.

He machine motor It is responsible for driving the spindle. To do this, use a series of pulleys which are placed around a ribbon. On the other hand, the engine also has the task of make the piece rotate on its own axis, at the same time that levers are activated that produce the forward movement.

We cannot ignore the cutting tool. In the case of drills, the drill bits, which can be of different lengths and diameters. The bit should fit snugly in the chuck and be securely fastened to prevent movement. The table is then adjusted to a specific height and centered. In the event that you want to make holes with a inclination, then it is the table that must move following a specific entry angle.

Afterwards, there is only hold the piece to the work table and start the engine. At this moment, the drill bit rotates on its own axis, while the piece moves in a forward motion for machining. It should be noted that column drills have a mechanism of depth graduation; This system allows establishing an exact measurement of the depth of the holes. This provides precision to the machining.