Step drills minimise operations and tools

The B731HP and B732HP step drills from have been especially developed for the drilling of metric threaded holes complete with a 45° chamfer, making it possible to drill threaded holes in a single operation without the need for special tools saving on machining cost, lead time and inventory. Key features of the drill include the patented Kennametal HP point geometry and the TiAIN coated KC7315 grade which combine to give exceptionally high performance. Cutting speeds of up to twice that of competitive drill can be achieved, reducing production costs by up to 40 per cent. The patented HP point geometry reduces cutting pressure and ensures smooth cutting and chip ejection from the cutting zone. The subsequent reduction in cutting forces ensure consistent repeatable holes and aid the life of the thread forming tools which follow the drilling operation. The new B731HP and B732HP in KC7315 are available from stock in cutting diameters from 4.2 – 14.0 mm with a cylindrical form A shank. B731HP drills and chamfers to two times diameter, B731HP to three times diameter.