Motor Power and Speed

One of the most important elements of the Flowdrill process is the use of specified rotational speeds or RPMs. The Flowdrill process requires higher speeds than conventional drilling methods. Speed requirements are influenced by the hole diameter, material thickness, and the type of material.

  • Rotational speed requirements range from 1000 to 3500 RPMs.
  • Motor power requirements range between 1.5 and 3.5 kWs.
    

 

 
   
Feed

Feed is the rate that the Flowdrill advances into the material. Manual, Steady or Variable feed rates can be applied depending on the machine’s capabilities. Flowdrill has tables to help you determine the optimal feed values depending on your material type and thickness.
 
Axial Force

Axial Force is the downward pressure exerted on the material as the Flowdrill advances into the workpiece. Thin materials may bend or collapse under excessive pressure. Adequate support must be provided to prevent deformation. A pre-hole or a Fluted Flowdrill may also be used to facilitate the initial entry into the workpiece with reduced axial force.

 

    
 
     
Toolholders

The MC2 and MC3 Toolholders insure the optimum clamping of the Flowdrills and prevent rotational slippage while the tool is turning at high speeds. Multiple prongs in the Collet securely hold the Flowdrill in a 360° clamping system. The Toolholders use a built-in aluminum cooling disc designed specifically to diffuse heat that travels up the spindle. The Toolholders use a standard tapered shaft that will fit most standard drilling systems. A cylindrical shaft is also available for CNC machines.

 
 
 

Lubrication

To optimize the quality and precision of the hole, lubrication needs to be applied prior to each perforation. Lubrication can be done by hand or with automatic spraying systems.

   
 
   

Preholes

Preholes can be used to reduce the axial force or to reduce the total length of the formed bush. Using a prehole also produces a smooth finish in the bushing’s lower edge. Reduced axial force may be required to avoid bending thin materials (less than1.5mm).
 
 

Recommended Practices for Optimum Results

  • Use of equipment with the recommended power and speed specifications
  • Use of recommended Toolholders
  • Regular inspection and adjustment of the clamped Flowdrill tools
  • Proper setting of the start (zero) and final positions
  • Use of recommended feed speeds according to the type and thickness of material
  • Proper lubrication of the Flowdrill tool
  • Secure and normal or perpendicular clamping of the workpiece