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WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT - HAND DRILLS

V. Ryan © 2001 - 2009

In the workshop you probably use a ‘hand drill’ and a ‘ratchet brace’ as part of practical work. These are used for drilling a range of sizes of hole and they are very useful especially if machine drills are not available. The hand drill generally holds drill sizes from 1mm to 9mm whilst the brace will hold larger drill bits called ‘forstner bits’ and ‘auger bits’. These larger bits can be used to drill ‘blind holes’ (holes that do not go the entire way through material).
When using these drills, always hold them so that they are vertical and turn the handles in a clockwise direction. The common mistake is to turn the handles anticlockwise as this makes it almost impossible to drill even the smallest holes. Also, put scrap material underneath the material to be drilled so that the bench is not damaged by the bit as it ‘bursts through the other side.

RATCHET BRACE

HAND DRILL

SAFETY

1. Clamp down the work to be drilled.
2. Hold the brace or hand drill vertically.
3. Turn the handle clockwise
4. Place scrap material underneath the material to be drilled.
5. If you feel it is necessary - wear goggles.
6. Do not drill too quickly, take your time.

1. Draw a ratchet brace and hand drill and label the most important parts.
2. Explain how you would safely use these pieces of equipment.
3. Demonstrate the use of either of these drills to a group of pupils, emphasising safety.

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