Some exchangeable-tip drills, like Sandvik Coromant’s CoroDrill DE10, are designed to eliminate the need for a pilot hole, thereby drastically reducing cycle times.

Recently, an automotive manufacturer faced issues with high cutting forces deforming its drill bodies, specifically while machining gearbox housing components from 47CrMo4 alloyed steel. This issue led to tool failures and increased costs. Switching to Sandvik Coromant’s CoroDrill DE10 resolved these challenges. DE10 is an advanced exchangeable-tip drill that’s engineered specifically for high-volume holemaking and is shown to boost productivity while streamlining operations, thanks to its advanced M5 tip geometry. This innovative design achieves an ideal balance between high feed rates and precise penetration, enabling the tool to deliver exceptional performance across diverse materials from steel alloys to stainless. And, as a plug-and-play solution, CoroDrill DE10 integrates easily into existing setups, making it a practical upgrade for manufacturers without having to overhaul their systems. Using a feed rate of 0.0138 in./rev (0.35 mm/rev) at a depth of cut of 2.5 times the drill diameter, the tool delivered a 17 percent productivity boost. CoroDrill DE10’s robust design and patented pre-tension clamping interface ensured exceptional accuracy, extended tool life, and minimized downtime. As gearbox designs grow more complex and production volumes continue to rise, manufacturers face mounting pressure to improve accuracy, consistency, and cost-efficiency in holemaking. Success in this area depends not only on smart machining strategies and optimal cutting parameters but also—and perhaps most critically—on selecting the right tool for the job.