How should a reamer be fed into a pre-drilled hole?

Feeding a reamer into a pre-drilled hole with one smooth, constant pressure is essential for achieving a precise and clean finish. This method ensures that the reamer maintains consistent contact with the walls of the hole, allowing it to cut evenly and effectively. A constant pressure minimizes the risk of chatter or vibration, which can lead to excessive wear on the tool or an inaccurate hole size. Moreover, this approach helps to control the cutting action, promoting better chip removal and reducing the likelihood of clogging, which can occur if the feed rate is inconsistent or too fast.

Utilizing a smooth, steady pressure also contributes to maintaining the integrity of the workpiece material, preventing any potential damage that could arise from abrupt feeding or high speeds. Consequently, this technique supports optimal tool life while achieving the desired hole diameter and surface finish.