CNC gundrilling plays a vital role in industries in which deep, precise bores are non-negotiable, from aerospace components to medical implants and high-performance automotive parts. But even the most advanced CNC machine is only as effective as the tooling it uses. The choice of gundrill - carbide, BTA, or another specialist design - can make the difference between smooth, efficient production and costly rework.
When selected and applied correctly, the right tooling not only boosts accuracy and consistency but also drives productivity and reduces waste.
In this article, we’ll explore how CNC gundrilling operations can be optimised for superior outcomes.
Selecting The Right Tooling: Materials, Coatings, And Geometry
Choosing the right tooling starts with a clear understanding of the material properties and the specific requirements of the hole being drilled. For most CNC gundrilling applications, solid carbide gundrills are preferred for their hardness, wear resistance, and ability to maintain cutting edges at high speeds. They are ideal for hard metals, small diameters, or precision-critical applications.
In contrast, BTA gundrills are designed for larger diameter holes and higher-volume production. Using an internal coolant system, they are better suited for applications in which swarf removal and temperature control are essential for optimum results.
BTA gundrills also offer the added benefit of quick tip change overs as opposed to time lost re-grinding carbide tips resulting in greater capacity and reduced lead times and costs.
Tool coatings, such as TiN (titanium nitride) and TiAlN (titanium aluminium nitride), or diamond-like coatings enhance tool life by reducing friction and heat build-up, especially when drilling stainless steels, superalloys, or non-ferrous metals. Drill geometry, specifically point angle, flute design, and clearance, must also align with the material type and tolerance requirements.
Tool Selection Based On Application
For softer materials such as aluminium, uncoated or polished carbide tools may suffice, whereas tougher alloys demand coated drills with reinforced geometries. In the aerospace and medical sectors, where bore straightness and surface finish are critical, selecting ultra-precise carbide gundrills is key to achieving the required tolerances.
When dealing with high production volumes, it’s essential to balance tooling cost with durability and regrind potential. At Hone-All, we have extensive experience helping manufacturers to navigate these trade-offs - selecting tooling solutions that minimise downtime, extend tool life, and maximise overall yield.
Maintenance And Process Optimisation Tips
To get the most out of your CNC gundrilling tools, it’s important to implement the following best practices:
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Regularly monitor tool wear and regrind tools when appropriate to extend their lifespan.
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Use proper fixturing and where possible, contra rotation to prevent vibration and drill wander.
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Ensure clean, high-pressure coolant is consistently delivered to the cutting zone to aid chip evacuation and reduce heat.
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Track runout and concentricity to avoid premature tool failure and poor bore quality.
Outsource Your Gundrilling To The Experts At Hone-All
At Hone-All, we’ve spent decades refining deep-hole drilling. Our engineers work closely with our customers to select the most effective tooling, optimise cutting parameters, and implement practical strategies to enhance precision and productivity. Our hands-on expertise ensures CNC gundrilling operations run reliably and efficiently, delivering consistent results, minimal waste, and longer tool life.
For a free, no-obligation quotation for your next project, please get in touch today.
