A Gun Drill is a specialized type of drill utilized for creating deep and accurate holes, originally designed for drilling gun barrels — thus the name. It is extensively employed in sectors such as automotive, aerospace, mold making, and medical devices.
Structure
- Single Cutting Edge: Facilitates chip removal and diminishes vibrations.
- Guide Pads: Aid in maintaining straightness and enhancing surface finish.
- Internal Coolant Channel: Allows high-pressure coolant flow within the tool to cool and eliminate chips.
- Long, Thin Drill Tube: Particularly suitable for drilling deep holes — up to 100 times the diameter or more.
Advantages
- Ideal for deep hole drilling.
- Produces precise holes with smooth surfaces.
- Effective removal of chips with internal coolant system.
- Commonly utilized for gun barrels, engine components, molds, and surgical instruments.
Excellent Deep Hole Capability
Gun drills can drill holes over 100 times the diameter (D) and are ideal for deep, narrow, and precision bores.
High Hole Accuracy
Gun drills provide superior straightness, roundness, and coaxiality, typically achieving IT8–IT10 tolerance levels.
Smooth Surface Finish
Surface roughness can reach Ra 0.4–1.6 µm with gun drills, reducing the need for additional reaming or honing.
Efficient Chip Removal
Gun drills feature internal high-pressure coolant that flushes chips out smoothly, preventing clogging and overheating.
Stable and Low Vibration Drilling
Guide pads on gun drills stabilize the tool and reduce tool deflection, making them suitable for long and precise holes.
Long Tool Life (with proper use)
When used with correct speeds, feeds, and coolant, gun drills can maintain sharpness over long runs. They are available with carbide-tipped or solid carbide options.
Applicable to Various Materials
Gun drills are effective on steel, aluminum, copper, titanium, plastic, and other metals or composites.
Automation-Friendly
Gun drills can be used in CNC machines, gun drilling machines, or modified lathes, making them versatile and compatible with automation processes.
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Applications of Gun Drills
Gun drills find their utility in various industries and scenarios where there is a need for deep, straight, and precise holes. Let's explore some common applications in different industries: