How To Use a Power Drill March 5th, 2010
The Power Drill is one of the most versatile tools in the toolbox.
As well as drilling holes it can strip paint, screw in screws and bolts, wax a car and sand wood!
What you need:
• Power Drill
• Extension Cord
• Chuck Key
• Drill Bits
• Drill Accessories
Power Supply
You need to make sure you have a sufficient power supply whether you are using the power drill insideh, on a work bench or outside. There may be times when the cord does not reach as you are working too far away from the power supply so you may need to use an extension cord to make the connection. If this is the case, always make sure that the cord is long enough so that it is not pulling on the drill.
Choosing a Drill Bit or Accessory
The majority of drill bits and drill accessories used for the power drill will have a ¼ inch shank. The shank is the part that you have to slide into the drill. The drill bit you choose depends on the work you intend to do. For example, if you are drilling into cement or brick, the carbide tipped masonry bit will be the best choice, however, if you are drilling into wood, then use a hardened steel bit. When stripping paint, a wire brush with a ¼ inch shank would be the most appropriate accessory to use.
Loosen Chuck and Slide in Bit
The drill bit chuck is located at the end of the power drill. This is what opens up and grabs the drill bit or accessory. It is opened with the chuck key. The key is included with the drill and is usually attached to the power cord or can be found on the side of the drill. Insert the key into the small hole on the side of the chuck and turn anticlockwise. Once the opening is large enough, you can slide in the shank of the bit or accessory.
Tighten Chuck
Once the bit is in the chuck tighten the chuck in a clockwise motion, ensuring it is in place securely.
Drill
Plug the drill in and hold it securely to the work piece. Use both hands if you are drilling a hole, one hand on the handle and trigger and the other on the barrel. Keep the drill perpendicular to the work piece and gently apply pressure to the trigger. Keeping firm pressure on the drill, guide the drill bit through the piece.
Top Tips
• To prevent overheating use cutting oil when drilling metals
• If you are drilling a hole a certain depth, mark the measurement on the drill bit with a piece of coloured electrical tape and stop drilling when you reach the tape
• Always wear safety goggles when operating a power drill
• Keep long hair tied back and avoid loose sleeves when using the drill
Tags;
Tools, Power Tools, Black & Decker, Hitachi, Makita
