Drill Press

From Fat Cat Fab Lab

FCFL has a Duracraft DP-514 drill press.

Safety

A dangerously simple tool.

  • Check for loose clothing and hair anywhere near the bit and your workpiece.
  • Wear safety goggles. Bits break and chips fly.
  • Know the tool, your material, the drill bit and appropriate speed or ask someone who does.
  • Double check that the chuck key is removed.
  • Keep the drilling table and workspace clear.
  • Clamp your workpiece, unless you are using a small bit on a large graspable workpiece of soft material.
  • Confirm the bit goes through the center of the drill table or the drill depth does not reach the table.
  • Confirm the bit is turning straight in the chuck not wobbling or bent.
  • Keep hands and fingers at least 3" away from any cutting or turning edge.
  • On deep cuts, raise the bit frequently to clean the chips out of the hole.
  • Ease up on the feed as the drill breaks through the work

Safety starts with you.

  • Be aware of your mental state.
  • How are you feeling?
  • Are you tired/hungry/frustrated?
  • Are you in a hurry?
  • Are you unsure about what you are doing?

These are the conditions that accidents usually happen in.