Description and uses
The drill press allows the operator to consistently drill straight, true holes in wood. It can be used to drill through or, with a stop, to drill “blind” holes.
With the machine turned off, place the drill bit in the drill chuck and hand tighten, making sure that the jaws of the drill chuck are not clamping down on the cutting portion of the bit. Tighten the drill chuck with the chuck key. Remove the chuck key before you turn on the drill press. Make sure the tool is turning true by briefly turning on the drill.
When drilling through holes, place a piece of scrap wood under your material so you don’t drill into the table. Line up your work piece and securely clamp it to the drill press table. Switch the drill on and lower the cutting bit by rotating the handle towards you. Do not force the machine. For thicker material, a “pecking” action is needed. Raise and lower the tool in and out of the hole to clear material from the hole while drilling. After you have drilled through and removed your material, clear the drill table of all debris. Once you are done drilling, remove and return the bit.
Further considerations
- The table of the drill press can be raised and lowered, rotated, and tilted. Make sure all the table clamps are tightened before you turn on the power.
- Verify location of on off switch and/or emergency power disconnect.
- The drill press is equipped with a depth stop adjustment, enabling you to cut holes to equal depths.
- Longer pieces may require a work support.
- Generally, increasing the bit size increases the danger of the bit seizing. Some bit styles such as spade (chisel) bits are especially prone to seizing. Ensure that your work piece is properly clamped and that you are using the correct speed for your type of operation. When in doubt, ask the workshop technician for assistance.
Drill press hazards
The drill press is a powerful tool. Never drill freehand. Always clamp the work piece. A drill bit can become seized in the work piece causing it to rotate with the spindle and can cause serious injury.
If the chuck key is not removed immediately after locking or unlocking a bit, it could be thrown off the rotating spindle and cause serious injury.