Introduction
Reamers are tools designed to create accurate and smooth holes in materials such as metal, plastic, wood, and more. They are commonly used in manufacturing and repair industries, where precision is crucial. There are several types of reamers available, each with its own unique design and purpose. In this article, we will discuss the different types of reamers used in various applications.
Taper Reamers
Taper reamers are designed to create tapered holes that gradually widen towards one end. They are commonly used in automotive, aerospace, and machining industries to produce tapered holes for bolts, pins, and other components. These reamers typically have a tapered shank that fits into a machine tool, and a cutting end with straight or spiral flutes that removes material. Taper reamers can also be used for deburring and finishing purposes.
Straight Flute Reamers
Straight flute reamers, also known as hand reamers, are tools that are designed to be used by hand. They have a straight shank and a cutting end with straight flutes that remove material. These reamers are commonly used in repairing or enlarging holes, particularly in softer materials such as plastic, wood, and soft metal. Straight flute reamers are available in various sizes and shapes, and can be customized for specific applications.
Chucking Reamers
Chucking reamers are designed to be used with a drill press or lathe. They have a straight shank that fits into the machine’s chuck, and a cutting end with straight or spiral flutes that remove material. Chucking reamers are commonly used in manufacturing applications where high precision is required, such as in the production of automotive or aerospace components. They are available in a wide range of sizes and designs, including straight, helical, and diamond-tipped.
Adjustable Reamers
Adjustable reamers, also known as expansion reamers, are versatile tools that can be adjusted to fit a range of hole sizes. They have a straight shank and a cutting end with a number of blades that can be expanded or contracted using a screw mechanism. Adjustable reamers are commonly used in repair and maintenance applications where a variety of hole sizes need to be accommodated. They are available in different shapes and materials, including high-speed steel and cobalt steel.
Diamond Reamers
Diamond reamers are cutting tools that use diamond particles to remove material from the workpiece. They are commonly used in the aerospace and medical industries for precision machining of hard materials such as ceramics and composites. Diamond reamers are designed to create ultra-smooth, burr-free holes with high dimensional accuracy. They are available in various sizes and can be customized for specific applications.