subject: Deep Hole Drilling [print this page] In layman terms, deep hole drilling refers to the process of drilling holes in solid material (most importantly, in metal) where the depth of the hole is five times greater or more than its diameter. In applications such as machining bores for guns, the depth to diameter ratio can exceed 300:1.
It is by no means an easy task to bore a deep hole in hard material, while ensuring a smooth finish, maintaining the required diameter end-to-end, and keeping the bore perfectly straight.
Now imagine the complexities where irregular surfaces, concentric bores and other intricate machining specifications are involved in the project! The challenges include removal of chips from the drill or boring head; maintain diameter control and other tolerance levels; control temperature of the drilling equipment; and manage force, torque, vibrations and acoustic emissions. The process has to be carried out by experienced hands, with state-of-the-art precision tools and trained professionals in charge.
Deep hole drilling is usually carried out by three major processes or systems gun drilling, BTS/STS (single tube system) and ejector. These are differentiated by methods of coolant entry, chip removal and the diameter to be maintained. Generally speaking, for holes with diameters below 0.5", gun drilling is the preferred method. For diameters of 0.5" and above, particularly if high production rates are involved, the BTA system is ideal. The ejector system is restricted to diameters of 0.75" and above.
Ascertaining the right method for any deep hole drilling task is a critical step that depends on many variables. In the majority of cases, the drilling equipment has to be customized according to project specifications.
Aerospace, defence, petrochemicals, automotive and medical industries are the most common sectors, among many, that regularly require precision drilling/boring services. Close tolerance, high accuracy and smooth surface finishes are the common pre-requisites of every project.
Specialists in deep hole drilling, such as Hone-All Precision Limited, offer a variety of different solutions to clients with turnkey services devised to match the specific requirements of the projects. Hone-All's advanced solutions for deep hole drilling ensure that accuracy is never in question even for the most unique of projects.
