Link Industries released a "revolutionary" drilling tool, the 2+1 Spot-Drill-Countersink x 82°. This newly patented design strategically combines spot, drill and countersink actions in a single tool made from HSS for high-speed machining aluminum. Like most Link Industries tools made from HSS, this drill performs at carbide-like speed and feeds, with HSS toughness.

The 2+1 Spot-Drill-Countersink x 82° has a unique geometry with a 2-flute drill transition into a "1-flute" through-hole. The scallop cutting edge from the through-hole creates the countersink. Designed to support multiple-operational machining processes, the tool cuts and countersinks a hole in a workpiece in a single, streamlined motion.

By eliminating the need to switch tools throughout the machining process, companies can save time, improve accuracy and, ultimately, cut costs. Further, when companies are able to machine at an increased speed, they gain overall process capacity.

To enable faster drilling with a smoother finish, the drill is designed with a 30° helix instead of a 7-8° helix and has a self-center point and a thinner web. In addition, the tool can run at 12,000 rpm, compared to 1,200 to 1,800 rpm for a regular HSS drill.

As with most groundbreaking tool developments, the 2+1 Spot-Drill-Countersink x 82° was created to solve a customer problem. One of Link Industries' customers was experiencing repeated failures with their standard 2-flute drill. A machine builder for aluminum extrusion processing, this company had upgraded their machine from a 6,000-rpm spindle to an 18,000-rpm spindle, without understanding how the upgrade would affect their tooling.

To mitigate the problem, Link Industries engineers started researching the market and experimenting with designs. Their initial consultations with professionals experienced in aluminum machining revealed that many did not think it was possible to come up with a viable solution. Despite the challenge, the engineers researched and experimented with potential designs utilizing Inventor 3D software. After three prototypes, they hit a home run.

Jeff Veryser, the general manager of Link Industries, said, "The design of this tool highlights the value of connecting with your customers and staying in touch with their issues and needs. Link Industries' long-standing success is built on serving our customers and continually improving our processes, designs and capabilities. The unique design and efficiency demonstrated in 2+1 Spot-Drill-Countersink x 82° is a result of listening to our customer and persevering until we delivered a solution."