Popular Woodworking 2002-10 № 130, страница 54

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The drill press is a somewhat under-appreciated machine in most shops. While it doesn't see constant use, when you need one they're invaluable. To drill a quantity of consistent, accurate and similar holes (like about 200 shelf pin holes in a bookcase) the drill press is your best buddy. And they serve as nice spindle sanders if you add a simple attachment.

Drill presses are probably one of the least expensive machines in a shop, pound-for-pound and feature-for-feature. Whether you opt for a smaller benchtop model, a well-appointed benchtop model, or one of the beefy floor models, it's going to be a good deal.

SETUP & USE

BENCHTOP VS. STATIONARY Interestingly enough, this is one category where you can get almost the same exact machine features in either a benchtop or a floor design, though the capacity is often greater on floor-model machines. The added benefit of stationary machines is the increased height from table to quill, but that isn't something that every woodworker needs. You might benefit more by using the area under the benchtop drill press for storage. MOTOR Essentially an accurate drill, it doesn't take a very large motor to make a competent drill press. One-half horsepower is adequate, though if it's affordable, larger motors will offer more torque for the bigger bits.

VARIABLE SPEED Using bits at their proper rated speeds will improve performance as well as tooling life span. Most drill presses require moving the belts manually to change the speed. The easier the belts are to reconfigure, the more likely you'll take the time to change the speed. STOPS There are two types of depth stops normally used on drill presses. Either a threaded shaft with jam nuts or an internal limiter that stops the handle motion are available. Both work and are more of a personal preference. Some models will offer both systems for even more options and flexibility. OSCILLATING MOTION Each year, new oscillating models are added to the drill press lines.These add a valuable feature to any drill press, making it a more versatile machine.

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Setting the Speeds

There aren't a lot of things to know about using a drill press. Probably the most important thing is using it at the proper speed. To get the best performance (and life span) out of a bit, it should be used at a particular speed. In general, smaller twists or brad point bits (under ^s" in diameter) should be run faster, anywhere from 2,000 to 3,000 rpm. Mid-size bits (h" to ³/4") in the 1,500 rpm range, and anything larger should spin at 1,000 rpm or slower.

Spade and Forstner bits fall into a slightly different category,

with smaller

bits (V4" to ⁵/₈")oper- ^ ating best around 2,000 to 2,400 rpm, and larger bits (up to running around 1,500. Larger Forstner bits(l¹/2" to 2") should be operated in the 500 rpm range.

Other Helpful Thoughts

Most drill press operations are similar to using a corded or cordless drill. If you are drilling all the way through a piece, use a backing board to keep the hole from tearing out on the backside. Go slow and let the bit do the cutting. Make sure the bit is perfectly perpendicular to your work before drilling.

One thing that is peculiar to a drill press is the tendency with the higher torque to catch a piece and spin it out of your hand. Whenever possible, attach a fence to the table to keep the piece from spinning, or clamp the wood to the table. The torque can be impressive, so don't underestimate it.

Speaking of fences, most drill presses include tables that were actually designed for metalworking. One upgrade to improve drill press use for woodworkers is an auxiliary table with attached, adjustable fences. We've included plans for one that we've used happily in the Popular Woodworking shop for years on page 36. PW

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Recommends

OCCASIONAL USER

• Grizzly G7943. For the basic benchtop drill press, this model answers all the needs for a very low $180.

• Grizzly G7945 or G7946. Either the benchtop or floor model of this radial drill press offers greater capacity than a standard drill press and still only runs $150 and $180.

• Delta DP250 & DP350. The

only benchtop drill presses offering variable speed without changing belts. Well worth the $130 or $200.

SERIOUS HOME WOODWORKER

• Grizzly G7944. This is a great price ($200) for a 14" floor-model drill press, and it's a good machine, too.

• Delta 17-965. A step up in size to this I6V2" unit makes it a pro-shop option at a good price ($400).

ADVANCED WOODWORKER OR PROFESSIONAL

• Grizzly G7948. We say "pro" here because of the capacity. At 20", this baby can handle all your needs for a still unbelievable $425.

These tools have been tested or used by

the editors of Popular Woodworking

and have earned their recommendation.

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Popular Woodworking October 2002