Get Listed
Aluminium is a fantastic option for a massive list of applications because of its strength to weight ratio and corrosion resistance. However, it can be challenging to work with. You need to be careful to avoid problems. We want to have a closer look at how to go about tube drilling and tapping here. Read on for key tips and advice to help you get the best results. Then, if you’d prefer to arrange specialist services, you can speak to us.
The problems
Before you start, it’s a good idea to consider the problems that can happen when you work with aluminium. The most important detail is heat builds up quickly when you machine it, including drilling and tapping. If you aren’t careful it can cause galling and seizing, fusing the tool to the material.
Another key thing to keep in mind is aluminium is actually quite soft. Alloys can be significantly harder, but you still need to be careful. Notably, ensure you don’t exert too much pressure when you are working with it. That can generate more heat and you could even cause issues like deforming the tube.
What to do?
If you want to be successful with aluminium tube drilling and tapping, you need to manage the heat effectively and ensure metal chips evacuate from holes. Make sure you choose the right tooling (HSS steel is the typical recommendation) and be generous with lubrication. Plus, always remember the importance of preparation and finishing up.
Before you start drilling, prepare the aluminium tubing. It’s important to make sure the surface is clean where you will drill each hole; you don’t want any contaminants to affect the tools. In many cases it is best to begin with a punch to prevent the drill bit from wandering.
When it’s time for tube drilling, apply gentle pressure and avoid going too quickly at excessive speeds. The goal is to avoid the hole and tool overheating. Apply lubricant regularly to cool the tube and tooling. It will also help to flush out chips. To finish, you will likely need to deburr the hole before you can tap it.
Tapping is a fantastic way to finish holes, creating threads so it is easier to screw bolts in place. The ideal technique is similar to drilling, relying on using the right tools, lubrication, and working carefully. If you use a machine, you can often tap the entire hole in one. However, hand tapping takes more time and care. It is often best to do a few turns, reverse to clear chips, and proceed, applying lubricant as you go.
As we said, finishing is very important after drilling and tapping aluminium tube. The main thing is to make sure holes and threads are completely free of chips and debris. Check the threads to make sure they are the right size. Finally, you may need to seal or treat the hole/threads to protect them.
Choose outstanding tube drilling services
Working with aluminium does present challenges, especially when you need to drill and tap it. However, you can reduce the chance of issues if you work carefully. Alternatively, you can speak to us and arrange outstanding services. We’ve got plenty of experience with drilling, bending, and different types of end forming. Our convenient, high quality services ensure you have quality tubing ready for assembly.
So, get in touch if you want to arrange tube drilling services or anything else. Multiform Tubes Engineering Ltd is a dynamic company you can rely on to help with applications in a variety of industries.
For more information on The key things to know about drilling and tapping aluminium tube talk to Multiform Tubes Engineering Ltd