A drill press is a stationary or bench-mounted power tool used for drilling precise holes in various materials, such as wood, metal, or plastic. It consists of a motor-driven spindle that holds a drill bit, which is lowered into the workpiece by manually operating a lever. The drill press offers greater accuracy and control compared to handheld drills, making it ideal for tasks requiring precision.

Makerspace Equipment

Tool Operation Overview & Safety

• General Safety Considerations

  • The workpiece must always be secured in place before drilling.  The user must exercise good conservative judgement to decide whether additional tools such as the fence, clamps or other stabilizing fixtures are needed for any particular operation.

  • When using your hands to secure a workpiece, ensure your fingers maintain an adequate safe distance from the spinning tool.

  • While long hair must always be secured and along with loose clothing while in the woodshop, these precautions are especially important when using the drill press.

• Assembling the bits

  • Insert the bit into the Jacobs chuck as far as possible while ensuring no portion of the flute geometry extends within the jaws.

  • After hand tightening the Jacobs chuck collar, use the chuck key to  tighten the collar in at least two hole positions

• Set the table height to ensure clearance of the work and any clamps necessary while minimizing the total required quill extension to complete the operation

• Use the depth limit stops to define the maximum depth the drill bit can achieve.

• Set the spindle to a speed appropriate for the tool being used and the material being cut. 

  • Speed adjustments must be made while the machine is moving

  • The drill press speed guide can provide rough guidance on speed settings but the user should always make adjustments appropriate to the situation.

• Periodically raise the bit out of the partially completed hole in a “pecking” motion to maximize chip clearance from the hole and minimize tool-damaging  heat buildup.

  • Larger diameter bits require more frequent chip clearance.

  • Harder materials require more frequent chip clearance.

  • Tools with partial fluting such as Forstner bits require more frequent chip clearance.

• Upon completion of an operation, remove all tools, clamps, etc. and return them to their storage locations.  Clean off the working area of any chips to ready the machine for the next user.

Access & Hazard Information

Standard Access

 Members are allowed to use this equipment only with dedicated assistance or supervision from a Makerspace staff member.

Hazard Class 3

1. Hazards: Minor injuries that can be resolved with first aid kit or ice pack, but potential for serious lacerations and minor amputations that require medical attention

2. Power: Greater than 0.5 HP, greater than 10-amp, 120 VAC, greater than 24V DC

3. Examples: Powerful portable tools and light industrial tools. 3D printers/processes with toxic/corrosive wash steps, CNC interlocked/enclosed mill, lathe, waterjet

4. Access Requirements: Members must attend a training session and pass written and hands-on exams. Improper use will be punished with a verbal warning, a note in the members file, mandatory retraining, and potiential loss of access to the space.

5. Supervision Requirements: The Makerspace must be open and a makerspace staff member must approve use of the equipment each time it is used. Staff may deny access or place additional restrictions on the use of this equipment on a per-use or per-person basis.