Can Drills Be Sharpened Using A Wheel?

Drills are one of the most commonly used tools in any workshop or construction site. They are used to create holes in various materials such as wood, metal, and plastic. Over time, the drill bits can become dull, making it difficult to create clean and precise holes. This is where sharpening comes in. There are various methods of sharpening drills, with one of the most popular being sharpening using a wheel.

What is Sharpening Using a Wheel?

Sharpening using a wheel involves using a grinding wheel to sharpen the drill bit. The wheel is made of abrasive material such as silicon carbide or aluminum oxide and is rotated at high speeds. The drill bit is held against the wheel, and the abrasive surface grinds away the dull edges, leaving a sharp cutting edge.

Can All Drills be Sharpened Using a Wheel?

Not all drills can be sharpened using a wheel. Only twist drills, which are the most commonly used types of drills, can be sharpened using a wheel. Other types of drills such as masonry, wood, and spade drills cannot be sharpened using a wheel.

Advantages of Sharpening Using a Wheel

There are several advantages of sharpening drills using a wheel. These include:

Cost-effective: Sharpening using a wheel is a cost-effective way to keep drill bits sharp and in good condition. It is much cheaper than buying new drill bits every time they become dull.
Time-saving: Sharpening using a wheel is a quick process that can be done in a matter of minutes, saving time and increasing productivity.

Increased lifespan: Sharpening drills using a wheel can increase the lifespan of the drill bits, making them more durable and long-lasting.
Improved performance: Sharpened drill bits perform much better than dull bits, creating cleaner and more precise holes.

How to Sharpen a Drill Using a Wheel

Sharpening a drill using a wheel is a simple process that can be done in a few easy steps:

Secure the drill bit in a vise or clamp to prevent it from moving during the sharpening process.
Select the correct grinding wheel for the drill bit size and material. Use a fine-grit wheel for small drill bits and a coarse-grit wheel for larger drill bits.
Hold the drill bit against the wheel at a 60-degree angle and rotate it clockwise, ensuring that the entire cutting edge is sharpened.

Repeat the process until the entire cutting edge is sharp and clean.
Use a honing stone to remove any burrs or rough edges left by the grinding wheel.

Conclusion

Sharpening drills using a wheel is a cost-effective and time-saving way to keep drill bits sharp and in good condition. While not all drills can be sharpened using a wheel, twist drills, which are the most commonly used types of drills, can be sharpened using this method. Sharpened drill bits perform much better than dull bits, creating cleaner and more precise holes. By following a few simple steps, anyone can sharpen their drills using a wheel and extend the lifespan of their drill bits.

Frequently Asked Questions: Can Drills Be Sharpened Using A Wheel?

1. What type of wheel can be used to sharpen drills?

There are two types of wheels that can be used to sharpen drills – bench grinder and diamond wheel. Bench grinder wheels are cheaper and widely available, but diamond wheels are more expensive and deliver better results.

2. Can all types of drills be sharpened using a wheel?

Most types of drills can be sharpened using a wheel, but there are some exceptions. For example, masonry drills and carbide-tipped drills should not be sharpened using a wheel as it can damage the drill bit.

3. Is it necessary to dress the wheel before sharpening drills?

Yes, it is necessary to dress the wheel before sharpening drills to remove any debris or unevenness on the wheel surface. This ensures that the drill bit is sharpened evenly and does not get damaged during the process.

4. What is the recommended angle for sharpening drills using a wheel?

The recommended angle for sharpening drills using a wheel is between 118 and 135 degrees. This angle ensures that the drill bit is sharp enough to cut through the material without getting damaged or broken.