10 Types of Essential Tools For Precision Machining

1. Calipers 

Accurate measurement is a critical aspect of precision machining, and calipers are one of the essential tools used to achieve this. With the ability to measure internal diameters, external diameters, and depths of workpieces, calipers are efficient and reliable tools for machinists. There are various types of calipers available in the market, including Spring Calipers, Lock-Joint Calipers, and Inside Calipers, each designed to meet specific requirements. Among the various types of calipers available, Vernier Calipers, Dial Calipers, and Electronic Calipers are the most popular among professionals. These calipers are favored for their ease of use, as the displayed measurements (in/mm) are easy to read. Additionally, their jaws can be easily adjusted to fit the objects being measured, making them versatile and efficient tools for precision machining.

2. Dial Indicators

Dial Indicators are precision measuring instruments that are specifically designed to measure small linear distances or alignment of workpieces. They offer high accuracy in both linear and angular measurements. Dial Indicators are extremely accurate and can indicate even the smallest movements or deviations in an object. With their high precision, they are widely used in various industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and aerospace. The Dial Indicators are engineered with different ranges, graduations, and dial readings to meet different specific machining requirements. The Dial Indicators are user-friendly and can be easily configured to meet specific requirements.

3. Micrometers

Most machinists use micrometers to measure workpiece length, depth, and thickness accurately and precisely. Micrometers are usually handheld devices that are engraved with a measurement scale.  Inside Micrometers and Outside Micrometers are the most common types of Micrometers used by professionals. They are available in a wide range of sizes in imperial or metric sizes. 

4. Drill Bits

A drill bit is used to drill holes in a variety of materials such as ceramics, wood, metal, plastic, and concrete. The drill bits come with various sizes and shapes to meet different machining requirements. There are various types of drill bits that are made of different materials, including high-speed steel and cobalt steel. What you are drilling will determine the type of drill bit material to use.  The drill bits are normally used together with drill tools such as a drill driver or bench drill, to carry out the drilling job. Drill bits are rotated at high speed and moved in and out along their axis by the chuck of the drilling tool, providing a hammering function depending on the power tool used.

5. Clamps

Although there are different types of clamps available in the market, they all serve the same fundamental purpose of firmly clamping and fastening the workpiece onto a surface to support various machining tasks. Clamps are versatile tools that find common use in workshops and factories. They come in various sizes and designs, ranging from light-duty C-clamps to heavy-duty F-clamps, to cater to different job requirements.

6. Combination Square

The Combination Square is a versatile tool for marking and measuring that every discerning machinist should have in their toolbox. The Combination Square is a commonly used tool for accurately and quickly measuring 90° and 45° angles, as well as the length and depth of the workpiece. The majority of Combination Squares comprise a rule or blade for reading measurements and marking. Some combination squares consist of a protractor head to set and mark angles. Due to its versatility, lightweight design, and high visibility, the Combination Square is the preferred choice for most machinists.

7. Deburring Tools

Handheld Deburring tools are used to quickly and easily remove burs, fillings, debris, and excess metals from the rough edges and holes of workpieces. These Deburring tools are made of high-quality steel for durability and ease of use, providing fast, efficient, and economical solutions for removing burs and fillings, resulting in a smooth surface on your workpiece. Ideal for any sawing, cutting, and drilling tasks.

8. Sanders

Sanders are highly used for polishing, smoothing, or finishing on a variety of surface materials such as wood, metal, or plastic. Sanders are equipped with abrasive sanding papers that are attached to speed up the finishing and polishing process with their power and high speed of rotation. The Sanders are designed with a conveniently located on/off switch for easy one-handed operation. There is a wide selection of sizes and designs of Sanders from various brands.

9. Taps and Internal Threading Tools

Taps and internal threading tools are used to create screw threads inside the workpiece. A tap is a threading tool used to form and cut threads in the female portion of a mating pair which create the threads inside a hole. (e.g. Nut). Taps are available in a wide selection of sizes (in/mm) and different types of thread, such as NPT, BSP, and BSPT, to meet various requirements.

10. Dies and External Threading Tools

Dies and external threading tools are used to create screw threads on the external surface of the workpiece. A die is used to form and cut the screw threads in male portion of a mating pair (e.g bolt). Dies are available in a wide selection of sizes (in/mm) and different types of thread, such as NPT, BSP, and BSPT, to meet various machining requirements.