Review of 12 types of best drilling machines: how to choose which one to buy

How does a drilling machine work?

To quickly and easily drill precise holes of the required diameter in wood, metal or other materials, a conventional drill is not always enough. In some cases, it is impossible to do without equipment such as a drill. This equipment will allow you to make holes, both blind and through, in almost any material. The machine is used for:

• hole processing;
• accommodation;
• countersinking;
• thread.
• drilling;

The main advantage of any drilling machine is that it allows you to easily make very precise holes that a conventional drill cannot make well. For example, it is not always possible to produce them according to precise markings.

KR Series Radial Drilling Machine

Each radial drilling machine is a block with a massive base plate equipped with grooves for clamping the workpiece in a vice. The base itself can be attached to the workbench so that the machine remains in one place throughout the work. The machine also has a drilling unit, which has a spindle and a chuck in which the drill used is fixed. Diameter may vary. The drill rotates due to the operation of an electric motor, which has a special drive for the spindle. There are also various controls - buttons to turn on the machine, change speed, etc. The machine must be equipped with safety guards or shields to prevent chips from falling onto the operator while drilling.

Tell! Most modern drilling machines also have various additional features that often increase comfort of use and make work easier. This could be, for example, a laser marker.

Operations performed

Using drilling equipment you can do everything related to making a hole:

• Drilling is the rough creation of a hole in solid material.
• Reaming is an increase in the diameter of a previously created hole.
• Countersinking is a semi-finish processing of a hole in order to increase its accuracy.
• Reaming is the finishing of a hole that comes after countersinking.
• Countersinking is the creation of recesses for the heads of bolts, screws and rivets.
• Countering is the finishing treatment of the flat bottom of the recess, comes after countersinking.
• Threading – creating a threaded surface.

In what mode do you plan to work?

Most often in a home workshop there is only a 220 V connection. Therefore, you need a machine with the same supply voltage. The 380 V mains voltage is a big advantage. There is no power loss when using three-phase motors. Several machines can be connected, whereas in a two-phase network, several powerful machines cause voltage fluctuations in the network.

So, having answered the questions, you can already imagine your future car. Whether household or professional, for large or small holes, for wood or metal, large or small parts. All you have to do is think about the convenience and see if it is suitable for your workshop. On the website VseInstrumenty.ru you can find equipment for work and hobbies of all sizes and with any characteristics. You will find all this in our catalog.

Types of Drilling Machine

Drilling machines can be classified according to several parameters. For example. There are universal and specialized devices. They can also be divided by type of control into automatic, semi-automatic and manual. However, let's take a closer look at the types of machines depending on their use for a particular type of work.

Diagram of a vertical drilling machine

Table. Types of drilling machines.

Radial drilling machine - schematic diagram

Advice! When choosing a machine, you should be guided primarily by the size of the holes that need to be made.

Drill production

Content

1. Drill manufacturing technology
2. Materials for the manufacture of metal drills Coatings that improve drill performance

In this article we will tell you everything about the production of drills. You will learn:

what technology is used to make conventional twist drills;

what materials are used for production;

on what equipment the main technological operations for the production of metal drills are performed;

What are the features of heat treatment and welding?

Photo No. 1: making a metal drill

Kinds

All drilling machines are divided into different types:

• Radial drilling. The spindle moves relative to the machine, and the workpiece itself moves along the spindle. Processing and clamping of heavy workpieces is many times easier.
• Vertical drilling rig. The group has a mandrel that is positioned vertically in the structure. Designed for single and small-scale production.
• Boring machine for feeders. It operates at high speed and is designed primarily for woodworking (eg furniture processing).
• Milling and turning. It is multifunctional and combines several very useful functions and capabilities. The milling and lathe works well with cast iron and steel parts, as well as aluminum and brass alloys. In general, it is used to process fairly strong and serious alloys and metals that other types of drills cannot handle.

Safety precautions

PROHIBITED:

1. Start work without checking for serviceability and grounding;
2. Start work activities without special clothing;
3. Work without safety glasses or headgear.

To avoid injury, follow these guidelines:

1. Overalls should fit snugly to the body;
2. Do not clutter the machine with unnecessary items;
3. Do not use a broken tool;
4. Do not try to stop the chuck during the cutting process;
5. Check the fastening of the drill in the chuck;
6. Wait until the machine stops, after which you can leave the workplace;
7. Under no circumstances should you adjust the part while the machine is running.

How to choose a drilling machine for your home workshop?

How to choose the right drill if you decide to create a mini-workshop in the garage or plan to perform a number of works in the country or at home? To choose the optimal model, you need to consider several factors.

The first factor to consider is the size of the workshop space and the planned method of work. As a rule, in domestic conditions such a machine is not used constantly, but from time to time. Sometimes, however, continuous operation of the machine is required. As a rule, in such cases, a household or semi-professional option that does not have much power is sufficient. A professional machine should only be considered if it will be used actively every day. This machine is more expensive, but has high performance. And this usually allows you to make holes of a fairly large diameter.

Holes made with a drill are precise and neat.

Important: If your home machine is used mercilessly, it will quickly break down. The simplest options, as a rule, are not designed for heavy loads during the day.

In short, first answer the question of how often the device will be used: more than 2 hours a day (continuous use) or less (repeated - short-term use, usually in this case the device is used for only a few minutes). Remember that household appliances should “rest” for 5 minutes every 20 minutes.

Another important criterion is power. If the device will be used constantly, its power should be more than 600 W, and preferably at least 1000 W. For household use, a device with a power of up to 600 W is sufficient.

Important! Machines rated for 220V are slightly weaker than machines rated for other ratings.

Drill bits for a drilling machine
Next, you should consider the size of the holes being created. Homemade options are unlikely to allow the use of a drill with a diameter of more than 16 mm (there are rare exceptions). On the other hand, the professional version may suggest 60 mm. For small holes, you need to purchase a modest machine for a drill up to 6 mm - it will be more accurate.

It is important to consider what material you are going to work with. For example, machines can create holes in metal, wood, or plastic. Remember, however, that to work with wood or sheet metal you need a machine with at least 600 watts of power, and for making holes in thick solid metal you need at least 1000 watts.

The depth of the holes also matters. It depends on the spindle stroke. This value is important if you have to work with thick workpieces. Therefore, the thicker the workpiece, the more powerful the machine should be and the longer the spindle stroke should be.

Also think about the size of the car. Therefore, if you work in a small space (for example, a garage), choose a small, compact device. It is also advisable that it is not too noisy during use.

As a note. Desktop machines are the smallest. However, they usually do not allow the use of drills larger than 16 mm in diameter and not very powerful. However, they are lightweight and relatively quiet. The optimal choice is a vertical type machine. It can be installed on almost any workbench and secured to it using a special leg.

Radial drilling options allow you to drill at the desired angle. It's worth taking a look at them.

JET JDP-8L compact class bench drill 0.35 kW 230 V

Security is an important parameter. The machine must be equipped with guards and protection. They prevent chips from falling on the operator during operation.

Additional features deserve special attention. Different machine models may have different additional features. But each of them will make the car more expensive. So think about whether you need them or whether it is better to buy the most basic machine to save money. Possible useful features include:

• Backlight;
• Tilt of the desktop for working at an angle;
• Milling;
• Speed ​​switch.
• laser viewfinder;
• reverse;

A good choice of machine is one that has a vice to hold the workpiece securely. It's good if they are included. You can also choose a model with suitable grooves and install the vise yourself. Using a vise is a must to get the most accurate holes.

Features of drill manufacturing, additional methods for improving tool performance

We will talk about the features of performing the most important operations included in drill manufacturing technology, and describe the methods that are used to improve the basic characteristics of tools.

Heat treatment

It is very important. The wear resistance of the tool and the quality of the steel directly depend on the correctness of the heat treatment.

Hardening is carried out in baths with molten salts or in furnaces (electric and gas). In some cases, equipment with a vacuum or a reducing atmosphere is used to make drills.

For tempering, oils, alkalis, salts and water are used. Often the workpieces are cooled in air.

Note! Heat treatment modes are of particular importance. Therefore, all processes are controlled automatically.

Resistance butt welding

Performed on special electric welding machines. There are three technologies.

Continuous flash welding without heating. The technology is highly productive. The disadvantage is the high consumption of metal for melting and upsetting.

Heated intermittent flash welding. Takes a little longer. Metal consumption is significantly reduced.

Heated resistance welding. Almost no metal is consumed, but the operation requires highly qualified workers.

The second method is most often used.

Photo No. 3: contact butt welding

Additional methods for improving the basic characteristics of drills

Let us list the technologies that are used in the manufacture of drills to further improve their properties.

Cyanidation. The surfaces of the working parts are saturated with nitrogen and carbon. Cyanidation increases the strength of tools by 2–3 times.

Sulfidation. The surface layers of drills are saturated with sulfur. Sulfur compounds reduce friction and increase the wear resistance of tools by 1.5–2 times.

Steam treatment. After this, the instruments are placed in oil. Black oxide films form on surfaces. The strength of drills that have undergone this treatment is doubled.

Parameters influencing choice

As mentioned above, the purpose of the machine is to drill holes. However, every wood drilling machine has its limitations. First of all, it should be said about the possible drill diameters. This parameter is the most important and is subject to significant limitations present in every machine. Regardless of type and purpose. If the machine will be used at home, the recommended diameter is 16 mm, but there are exceptions.

A mini-drill that can drill holes up to 6mm in diameter is often required for work related to the manufacture of printed circuit boards. The cost of pleasure is quite low, so manufacturers talk about the accuracy of such machines.

It should be understood that the quality of the workpiece assembly determines the accuracy obtained during drilling. Choose machines that can be equipped with a vice or other reliable device for holding the workpiece. The best choice is a cross table.

Drill manufacturing technology

The technological process for manufacturing spiral drills for metal with conical shanks consists of the following sequence of operations.

1. A piece of workpiece for the tail section.
2. Cutting the workpiece for the working part.
3. Cleaning the ends of the tail section.
4. Cleaning the ends of the working part.
5. Cleaning the workpiece using a sandblasting machine.
6. Welding.
7. Annealing.
8. Peeling the bead at the weld.
9. Straightening the workpiece after welding.
10. Trimming the end from the shank side.
11. Drilling and countersinking the center hole from the shank side.
12. Turning of the outer center from the side of the working part.
13. Turning of the working part in diameter, preliminary and final.
14. Taper turning of the shank, preliminary and final.
15. Turning the shank for the foot and trimming the end.
16. Foot milling.
17. Spiral groove milling.
18. Milling the back of the tooth.
19. Heat treatment and cleaning using a sandblasting machine.
20. Polishing of spiral grooves.
21. Center grinding.
22. Grinding the shank to a cone.
23. Grinding the working part along the diameter with a reverse cone.
24. Drill sharpening.
25. Control and branding.

Equipment for the machine

To make your machine as useful as possible, it is important not only to choose the machine itself, but also to purchase the right accessories for it. For example, the vice itself, if it is not included in the kit. It is best to purchase the screw version, which provides maximum clamping and high accuracy. This type of vice usually has no play. They can be mounted on the machine table. By the way, a vice can also have a number of functions - for example, the ability to rotate and lock in almost any position.

There are universal disadvantages. They are more expensive than screw terminals, but unlike them they can be installed both vertically and horizontally.

Drilling vice

Important: The vice is not intended for clamping workpieces more than 10 cm wide or long.

Clamping jaws are used to hold large workpieces. If you need to clamp a pipe or ball, a prism is needed. If you want to drill without marking, you can use drill guides to guide the drill and prevent it from moving sideways. The result is very precise holes that are even more precise than directional drilling.

Taps for drilling machine

What else could you possibly need? These can be thread cutters, countersinks, reamers and much more. Each of them is used for different types of work: for example, taps are used for cutting internal threads. You should purchase these if you plan to do this job.

Materials for making metal drills

In Russia, materials such as high-speed steels and hard alloys are used to make metal drills. Let's list the common brands of the first.

P9 and P18. Steel with similar characteristics. The first contains 9% tungsten, and the second - 18. Drills made from these steels drill well, do not overheat and last a long time.

Р6М5 (foreign analogue - HSS steel). Metal drills made of this high-speed steel are most often found. It contains 6% tungsten and 5% molybdenum. Tools made from this material are used to process:

Р6М5К5 (foreign analogue - HSS-Co steel). This alloy contains not only molybdenum and tungsten, but also 5% cobalt. Drills made from R6M5K5 steel are stronger than analogues made from an alloy without the addition of cobalt. These tools are used to process:

Carbide drills differ from tools made from high-speed steel by being more durable and durable. 4 types of alloys are used for production.

tungsten-free (based on TiC, TiCN with a nickel-molybdenum binder).

Coatings that improve drill performance

In the production of metal drills, two types of coatings are applied to the working parts and shanks to improve their properties.

Titanium nitride. The hardness of the surface layers of such drills increases by 2300 HV. Thermal resistance increases to 600°.

Titanium nitride alloyed with aluminum. The hardness of the surface layers of such drills increases by 3000 HV. Thermal resistance increases to 900°.

Photo No. 2: drill coated with titanium nitride

Drills with such coatings are used to process:

parts made of hard and improved alloys;

billets made of malleable and gray cast iron, in which the graphite inclusions are spherical.

If maximum reliability and wear resistance are important to you, buy these tools. You will find detailed information about choosing metal drills here.

Best Inexpensive Drilling Machines

Inexpensive drills are bought mainly for household purposes. These are mainly models that connect to a 220 V network. They do not have record power and rich functionality. But these machines will help their owners in construction or repair. Experts have identified the following models.

Einhell BT-BD 701

A universal household drill is the Chinese Einhell BT-BD 701. According to experts, the distinctive feature of this model is its high quality design, which makes it a winner in the rating. With a power of 630 W, the equipment copes not only with drilling soft materials, but also with processing large metal parts. The device is characterized by its low weight (35 kg), which allows the machine to be moved to the material if necessary. The drill operates from a 220 V network, and the spindle speed can be adjusted from 220 to 2450 rpm.

Users speak positively on thematic forums about the ease of use, the presence of a vice in the kit, and the rigidity of the frame. The disadvantage of the drill is its loud noise and modest drill capabilities (3-16 mm).

Advantages:

• powerful engine;
• 12 gears;
• presence of a vice;
• rigid frame.

Flaws:

• racks with thin walls;
• Unreliable fastening of the protective screen.

Enkor Corvette-47 90470

The domestic development “Anchor Corvette-47” is not inferior to the leader of the rating in a number of indicators. This includes 12-speed control, light weight (36 kg), and a reasonable price. And after the noise level, this model looks better. But here there is a certain loss in engine power (550 watts). This affects the capabilities of the drilling rig. With its help, you can work with wooden or plastic parts, or, in extreme cases, drill soft types of metal. Experts note the small size of the machine, which allows it to be installed on a workbench or table. The budget model does not have such modern options as laser or reverse.

The main disadvantage of the drill, according to users, is the rapid heating of the electric motor. Therefore, drilling (10-15 minutes) will have to be performed alternately with other work.

Advantages:

• low chuck runout;
• low noise level;
• conical cartridge.

Flaws:

• vibration when turned on;
• fast engine heating.

SPEC SSV-500-16 SPEC-3262

We also included another domestic development made in China in our rating. The third place is occupied by the drill SSV-500-16 SPEC-3262. Many Russian masters had the opportunity to try it out, assessing its strengths and identifying its weaknesses. Firstly, this model lags behind the leaders in power (500 W). Experts deducted points for the weak frame and rapid engine heating.

On the positive side, you can appreciate the low price and light weight (20 kg). The model is made neatly and looks the same in reality as in the advertising photographs. Working with the device is quite simple and convenient, and when drilling you can get fairly accurate hole dimensions. The drill is ideal for a home workshop or garage where the workload is small.

Advantages:

• lightweight and compact;
• low price;
• ease of use.

Flaws:

• fragile design;
• No protective screen.

Jet JDP-8L

The Jet JDP-8L model stands out among household drills with the most affordable price. The Swiss manufacturer managed to offer Russian customers a favorable price thanks to the organization of production in China. Experts noted the cast iron base of the machine, which makes it stable and reliable. The weight of the model remained minimal (19 kg). The drill is slightly inferior to its competitors in terms of power (350 W), and the maximum drill diameter is limited to 13 mm.

To select the optimal drilling mode, only 5 spindle speeds are required. A useful option is a drilling depth limiter. The manufacturer has provided the ability to adjust the tilt of the table by changing its height. Users consider the weak point of the tool to be the presence of backlash.

Advantages:

• low price;
• lightness and compactness;
• cast iron base.

Weak sides:

• Strong blow of the pen;
• Awkward trigger;
• weak engine.

Drill factories

The production of high-quality metal drills is established at a huge number of factories in Russia and abroad. Products under the following brands are popular.

Ruko. The company specializes in the production of cross-sharpened drills. Types of spraying vary. The products combine high quality and reasonable cost.

Haisser. The carbide drills from this brand are some of the best in the world. The products are expensive.

Bosh. Specializes in the production of drills with SDS shanks.

"Bison". One of the best Russian manufacturers.

SEKIRA. This is our own brand. We produce drills of various types and sizes. The characteristics of all products meet the requirements of GOSTs. You can purchase our products at the lowest price.

Study the catalog, select the drills you need and place your order. We will deliver metal-cutting tools on time.

The best types of premium drilling machines

This is already professional equipment designed to solve relatively complex problems, including mass production. To do this, it must be sufficiently reliable and efficient.

PROMA BY-3216PC/400

An interesting example from the Czech Republic, operating on a three-phase network and therefore intended mainly for factories, factories and other small businesses.
If there is no overload, it will last for many years. Peculiarities:

• rotation speed – 125-1975 rpm;
• maximum drill diameter – 32 mm;
• spindle pin stroke – 150 mm;
• dimensions – 1060x640x1510 mm
• weight – 260 kg;
• engine power – 1500 W;

Advantages:

• reinforced base 310x380 provides an additional work table;
• the sieve protects the operator from chips;
• has lighting and cooling;
• up to 8 speeds.
• With automatic feeding;

flaws:

• Not suitable for household use;
• Requires 380 volts.

Euroboor ECO 100/4 D

Possibly the best vertical metal drill, or at least one of them for sure.
Compact and very light for its class, but powerful, with spiral knives up to 32 mm in diameter and ring knives, it effectively solves a wide range of tasks up to 10 cm thick. It is also possible to process oversized parts. Operating parameters:

• rotation speed – 42-620 rpm; engine power – 1900 W;
• engine power – 1900 W
• weight – 28 kg
• dimensions – 365x190x510 mm.

Advantages:

• The base rotates - in the longitudinal direction by 20 0 and in the angular direction by 30 0;
• 4 speeds;
• powerful magnet with a magnetic force of 3 tons for perfect fixation;
• can also be installed on large objects.

Flaws:

• Too expensive for home use.

JET IDP-15BV 230V

American made table drill for professional use, ideal for quickly cutting holes in cast iron and steel.
It can be powered from the mains, which expands the range of its applications. The manufacturer provides a 2-year warranty on all its models. Peculiarities:

• Rotation speed – 450-2000 rpm;
• Maximum drill diameter – 20 mm;
• Spindle pitch – 85 mm;
• dimensions – 1780x425x214 mm.
• weight – 50 kg;
• engine power – 750-1100 W;

Advantages:

• a transparent plastic screen protects against sparks, dust, and shavings;
• Durable 73mm support tube effectively absorbs vibrations;
• Adjustment is carried out as smoothly as possible thanks to the control board;
• The table can rotate around the column either counterclockwise or clockwise.

Flaws:

• Relatively high wear.

MESSER MDM-32

Powerful, self-adjusting, easy to learn and easy to operate, this machine from South Korea exemplifies modern performance.
Options:

• Speed ​​– 100-830 rpm;
• Engine power – 1550 W;
• Weight – 15 kg;
• Dimensions – 300x280x480 mm.

Pros:

• buttons and knobs within operator reach;
• relatively deep penetration of the tool – up to 55 mm;
• There is a reservoir for coolant.

Cons:

• Only 1 speed.

Dewalt Dwe1622k

A true leader among our best bench drills for the home, garage, and industry.
Since it can be used anywhere, it is quite compact and can be powered from a 220-230 volt network without any problems. Equipped with a magnet, it holds the workpiece securely. Without heating the workpiece, it ensures fast processing. Peculiarities:

• rotation speed – 350-450 rpm; engine power – 1200 W;
• engine power – 1200 W;
• maximum drill diameter – 50 mm;
• weight – 14.55 kg.

Advantages:

• there is an automatic supply of coolant;
• LED lighting allows you to work even in the dark;
• it is protected against overvoltage;
• After an emergency shutdown, it does not restart when power is restored.

Flaws:

• One of the most expensive models.

What to consider when choosing?

We have described more than one really good drill for the home; the rating of the best models for a workshop or enterprise also includes quite a few options. So which one will be the best choice? You should purchase a model that meets the following parameters:

1. Power – if you plan to use the equipment frequently and get high performance from it, the power should be at least 600 W.
2. Hole diameter - at home you hardly need to make it larger than 16 mm, but in factories and factories you often have to make sections of 50-60 mm.
3. Ease of use - the more compact and lighter the machine, the more speeds it supports, the more ergonomic it is, the more convenient it is to use, but also the easier it is to troubleshoot.
4. Security – make sure the option you like has a transparent screen and cannot be turned on by itself.

We hope you can now make your decision easily. And if you have any questions, contact us: we will tell you which domestic drill is better, Optima, ZUBR or DILD, which are the best American, German, Chinese models and give them to you at a competitive price.