DFM – Hole Design Strategies

The video emphasizes the significance of drilling in part design and manufacturing, especially in CNC machining, where drilling is a fast, reliable, and cost-effective way to create precision features. The speaker explores key considerations such as length-to-diameter ratios for drills, deflection issues when entering or exiting angled surfaces, and how machine limitations, like spindle travel, can impact deep drilling. He also discusses strategies for avoiding burrs and deflection in cross-holes and angled drilling surfaces, using techniques like counterbores and flat-bottom drills to manage tool engagement. The speaker touches on the use of step drills, small hole drilling, and thread limitations in tapping operations, highlighting the importance of thread engagement depth and avoiding common pitfalls like drilling too close to walls or leaving unnecessary threads in through-holes. He concludes by discussing flat-bottom holes, counterbores, fasteners (especially flathead screws), and reaming for dowel holes, stressing the importance of proper tool selection and order of operations to ensure manufacturability and part longevity.

https://www.youtube.com/@adamthemachinist