Indexable Gun Drills

Overview

Indexable Gun Drills are advanced drilling tools designed for precision deep-hole machining, combining the versatility of replaceable inserts with the rigidity required for holes up to 100x diameter in depth. These drills feature a modular design where carbide or cermet inserts can be indexed or replaced, minimizing downtime and tool costs compared to solid carbide alternatives. The drill body, constructed from high-strength alloy steel, incorporates internal coolant channels to flush chips efficiently and maintain optimal cutting temperatures, ensuring consistent hole quality in materials ranging from aluminum alloys to hardened steels (up to 55 HRC).

Engineered for both industrial and precision applications, Indexable Gun Drills excel in achieving tight tolerances (roundness ≤0.01mm, straightness ≤0.1mm/m) and superior surface finishes (Ra ≤1.6μm). Their compatibility with standard gun drilling machines, combined with a wide range of insert geometries, makes them the preferred choice for high-volume production and complex deep-hole operations where reliability and cost-efficiency are critical.

Features

Modular Insert System:

Replaceable inserts with multiple cutting edges (3–8 per insert) reduce tool waste and allow quick indexation when edges wear, extending effective tool life by 30–50%.

Inserts available in carbide (for general machining), cermet (for high-temperature resistance), or diamond-coated (for non-ferrous metals), tailored to specific workpiece materials.

Precision Coolant Delivery:

Internal high-pressure coolant channels (50–200 bar) direct coolant to the cutting edge, enhancing chip breakage and preventing thermal damage to both tool and workpiece.

Ejector-style designs feature dual-channel flow for improved chip evacuation in deep holes (≥50x D).

Rigid Tool Construction:

Heavy-duty steel shanks with anti-vibration ribs maintain stability at high spindle speeds (up to 4,000 RPM), minimizing deflection in long-aspect-ratio drilling.

Precision-ground guide pads ensure hole straightness by maintaining consistent contact with the bore wall during penetration.

Geometry Optimization:

Variable helix angles (12°–30°) and cutting lip configurations (e.g., parabolic, straight) optimize chip formation for different materials—sharp edges for polymers, robust profiles for superalloys.

Tight insert seating tolerances (±0.002mm) eliminate play, ensuring repeatable hole dimensions across tool changes.

Industry Compliance:

Meets ISO 3685 for deep-hole drilling accuracy and ANSI B94.19 for tool holder compatibility, ensuring seamless integration into CNC machining centers.

Applications

Automotive Manufacturing: Drilling deep oil galleries in engine blocks (cast iron/Al alloys) and transmission shafts, enabling high-volume production with minimal tool changes.

Aerospace Components: Machining titanium alloy wing spars and inconel engine casings, where hole straightness is critical for structural integrity and fastener fit.

Medical Device Production: Precise deep holes in cobalt-chromium orthopedic implants and titanium dental roots, requiring ultra-smooth surfaces (Ra ≤0.8μm) to facilitate osseointegration.

Energy Sector: Fabrication of deep coolant channels in nuclear reactor pressure vessels and offshore drilling equipment, resisting corrosion and thermal stress in harsh environments.

FAQ

Q: What is the main advantage of indexable gun drills over solid carbide drills?

A: Indexable drills offer cost savings through insert replacement (only the worn tip is changed, not the entire tool) and greater flexibility for different materials via interchangeable insert grades.

Q: Can these drills be used for micro-drilling (diameter <1mm)?

A: Standard models start at 3mm diameter. For micro-applications, solid carbide gun drills are recommended, though we offer specialized indexable tools for 2–6mm diameters with ultra-precise insert seating.

Q: How do I choose the right coolant type and pressure?

A: Use synthetic coolant with 4–6% concentration for general steel; oil-based coolant for aluminum to prevent smearing. Pressure should be 80–150 bar for holes <50mm deep, increasing to 200 bar for deeper bores.

Q: Are there safety considerations for high-pressure coolant systems?

A: Yes—always use rated hoses and fittings, and ensure proper enclosure to prevent coolant spray. Regularly inspect seals for leaks, especially in high-pressure setups.