SMART CUT® Micro & Minature Diamond Core Drills

These drills are designed for ultra-hard and brittle materials, including glass, optical glass, silicon, ceramic, piezo, sapphire, and other crystalline materials.

Yes, SMART CUT Diamond Core Drills are versatile and can be used for both drilling precise holes and extracting core samples from various materials.

The drills come in a range of sizes, with outside diameters ranging from 0.5mm to 3.2mm. Inside diameters and drill depths are matched accordingly.

The outside diameter tolerance is +/- 0.03mm or +/- 0.01mm, and the inside diameter tolerance is – 0 / + 0.01. This precision ensures accurate drilling.

These drills use a sintered (metal bond), which offers durability and a strong bond between the diamonds and the matrix

The lifespan varies based on usage and material but typically ranges from hundreds to over a thousand holes.

Yes, custom specifications can be produced upon request, allowing for tailored solutions for specific drilling needs.

Thru-hole coolant is recommended whenever possible. Flood cooling may be suitable in certain situations, but it is less effective in swarf removal and cooling.

The diamond size ranges from 200 mesh (80 microns) to 1,000 mesh (15 microns), allowing for a balance between drilling speed and finish quality. Diamond size used varies with diameter of the drill with smaller diameter drills having finer diamond sizes, and larger diamond drills having larger diamond sizes. We can customize diamond size to fit your particular application.

It’s important to use the recommended coolant method to prolong drill life and maintain performance. Also, ensuring the drill is correctly mounted and aligned can reduce wear and tear. And periodically dressing to maintain efficient drilling speed and diamond crystals exposed.

Yes, they can be used on standard drilling machines, but ensure the machine can accommodate the specific mounting type and operate within the required precision.

While there’s always a risk when drilling hard, brittle materials, these drills are designed to minimize cracking and damage, especially when used with proper techniques and coolant.

Yes, these drills are ideal for both industrial-scale operations and precise laboratory work, thanks to their durability and precision.

The diamond depth, which ranges from 4mm to 10mm, indicates the depth of the diamond-embedded segment. This depth impacts the drill’s longevity and its ability to maintain cutting efficiency over time.

The run out/concentricity, measured at 0.02-0.03mm, ensures the drill rotates evenly, leading to more precise holes, reduced risk of drill breakage, and overall better performance.

Using a slow, steady feed rate, maintaining consistent coolant flow, and avoiding excessive pressure are key techniques to optimize performance and prolong the drill’s life.

Material hardness, drilling speed, pressure applied, coolant used, and frequency of use are key factors that can affect the lifespan of these drills.

These drills are not recommended for use on ferrous metals. We can produce core drills using CBN (cubic boron nitride) instead of diamond that would help reduce amount of heat generated when drilling the tough materials. Diamond can be used but the effectiveness will not be as efficient compared to using CBN abrasive inside these core drills.

While possible, it’s not recommended due to the precision required. These drills are best used with stable, stationary drilling setups to ensure accuracy and safety.

Yes, they are designed for both high-precision tasks and repetitive, high-volume applications, provided the drills are used within their operational specifications.

Repairability depends on the extent of the damage. Minor wear might be addressable, but significant damage often requires replacement. Consult us for repair and retipping services.

Proper mounting, alignment, and using equipment with precise adjustment capabilities are key to maintaining concentricity.

Yes, SMART CUT Diamond Core Drills can be used for depth-controlled drilling, especially when used with precision drilling equipment that allows for depth settings.

these diamond core drills are ready to use right out of the box. These is no break in process or procedure that is needed.

Regular cleaning with appropriate solutions to remove debris and coolant residues is recommended. Store the drills in a dry, cool place and handle them carefully to avoid damage.

These drills are commonly used in industries like electronics, optics, semiconductors, materials research, and any other industry requiring precision drilling in hard materials.

The diameter of the drill determines the size of the hole it can create. Smaller diameters are used for precise, fine drilling, while larger diameters are used for bigger holes.

 Yes, these drills are suitable for use on CNC machines, as long as the machine can accommodate the drill’s specifications and mounting requirements.

Common troubleshooting steps include checking for correct drill and material alignment, ensuring appropriate coolant flow, verifying speed settings, and inspecting the drill for wear or damage.

Store the drills in a dry, dust-free environment, away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight. Proper storage can significantly prolong the life of the drills.

The inside diameter tolerance affects the precision of the hole size. Tighter tolerances result in more accurate hole sizes, which is crucial in precision applications.

 If the drill is not cutting efficiently, check for dullness, ensure proper coolant use, verify the material type being drilled, and adjust the drilling parameters accordingly.

These drills are designed for ultra-hard and brittle materials and may not be suitable for metals. Consult with the manufacturer for drills specifically designed for metal applications.

The choice of coolant is crucial as different materials may react differently to heat and stress during drilling. Using the correct coolant ensures optimal drilling performance and prevents material damage.

Yes, these drills are suitable for educational settings where precision drilling is taught or required, such as in material science or engineering courses.

Drill speed affects the quality and accuracy of the hole. Too fast may lead to overheating and material damage, while too slow may result in inefficient drilling. Optimal speed ensures a balance between efficiency and quality.

Accurate alignment requires a stable drilling setup, precise measurement tools, and careful setup procedures. Follow the drilling machine manufacturer’s guidelines and use appropriate jigs or alignment tools as needed.

Always use appropriate personal protective equipment, ensure a stable and safe working environment, and follow health and safety guidelines for handling sharp tools and dealing with drilling debris.

Material thickness affects the drill’s performance and the required drill depth. Thicker materials may require slower drilling speeds and more attention to heat dissipation.

These drills are designed for circular holes. For non-circular shapes, different tooling or techniques would be required.

The drill depth is limited by the drill’s length and design. The specifications include maximum drill depths, which should be adhered to for optimal performance. The drill depth is usually in proportion to diameter of the diamond core drill.

Yes, follow the equipment manufacturer’s guidelines for changing drills, ensuring that the replacement drill is properly mounted and aligned for safe and effective operation.

Yes, these drills can be used with robotic drilling systems, provided the system can accommodate their specific size and mounting requirements.

Higher diamond concentration typically offers longer life and a smoother finish, while lower concentration may allow for faster cutting but shorter drill life.

While these drills are designed for ultra-hard materials, drilling materials like diamond or carbide may require specialized drills. Consult with us for guidance on these specific applications.

In the event of drill bit breakage, immediately stop the operation, safely remove the broken pieces, and inspect the equipment for damage. Assess the cause of breakage to prevent future occurrences.

Yes, their high precision and quality make them ideal for use in precision engineering applications where exact tolerances and finishes are required.

Excessive runout can lead to holes that are larger than the drill’s nominal diameter, and can also cause uneven wear on the drill, reducing its life and precision.

The maximum material thickness these drills can handle effectively is determined by the drill depth specification. Exceeding this depth can lead to reduced effectiveness and potential damage to both the drill and the material.

The angle of entry affects the initial contact between the drill and the material. A perpendicular entry is generally recommended for precision, while angled entries require specialized setups to maintain accuracy.

Yes, these drills can be used for enlarging holes, but it requires careful alignment and control to ensure precision and avoid damage to both the drill and the material. Usually flat bottom type of drills are used for that application.

Regular cleaning, dressing, proper storage, and using them within their specified operational limits are key maintenance practices. Avoid dropping or mishandling the drills to prevent damage.

For the best hole quality, use the correct drill size and type for the material, maintain a stable drilling setup, use appropriate coolant, and drill at the recommended speed and feed rate.

Drilling on irregular surfaces can be challenging and requires a stable setup and possibly a specialized guide or jig to maintain accuracy.

Avoid using these drills in extreme temperatures, as it can affect both the material being drilled and the drill itself. Ensure the drilling environment is stable and within a reasonable temperature range.

The interior finish of holes drilled with these diamond core drills is typically smoother and more precise compared to other drilling methods, especially in hard and brittle materials.

If the drill becomes stuck, stop the drilling process immediately and carefully attempt to reverse the drill out. Avoid applying excessive force to prevent breaking the drill.

 Yes, these drills can be used in both vertical and horizontal drilling setups, as long as the drill is properly aligned and securely mounted.

Using the drills at excessively high speeds can lead to overheating and rapid wear, reducing their lifespan. Conversely, too low speeds can result in inefficient drilling and unnecessary pressure on the drill.

Signs include a noticeable decrease in drilling efficiency, difficulty in achieving clean and precise holes, visible wear on the drill bit, and increased vibrations during drilling.

 Drilling in a vacuum environment requires specialized equipment and considerations for drill cooling and debris removal. Consult with technical experts for guidance on such setups.

The mounting type affects how the drill is secured to the drilling equipment. The right mounting ensures stability and precision, and should be compatible with the drilling machine used.

Yes, their precision and ability to drill small, accurate holes make them suitable for microfabrication applications, particularly in electronics and materials research.

For shallow depths, precise control over the drill’s penetration is crucial. Using a drill press with depth stop settings and operating at lower speeds can help achieve accurate results.

Material density affects the drilling speed, feed rate, and coolant flow required. Denser materials typically require slower speeds and higher feed rates, along with efficient cooling.

Yes, but it requires careful consideration of the drill parameters for each layer’s hardness. Consistent coolant flow and controlled feed rates are essential to manage the transition between layers.

The right coolant reduces thermal stress and removes debris effectively, which can significantly extend the drill’s lifespan. Using inappropriate coolant can lead to premature wear or damage.

When drilling at high speeds, ensure the drill is well-cooled, the material is securely clamped, and the drill is properly aligned. It’s also important to gradually increase to high speeds to prevent shock to the drill and material.

Drilling in thin films or membranes requires extremely precise control and the right drill size to prevent material damage. Consult with us for recommendations on such applications.

Post-drilling treatments like deburring or polishing may be required, depending on the application and material. These treatments ensure the quality and functionality of the drilled holes.

Yes, these drills are suitable for composite ceramics. However, the specific drilling parameters should be adjusted based on the material’s properties.

The inside diameter of the drill determines the size of the core sample. It’s important to select a drill with an inside diameter that matches the required core sample size.

When drilling in extremely brittle materials, use lower feed rates, ensure stable support for the material, and maintain consistent coolant flow to prevent cracking or chipping.

 While it’s possible to use these drills in hand-held drill presses, stationary equipment is recommended for greater stability and precision, especially for very small or precise holes.

The outside diameter tolerance impacts the accuracy of the hole size. Tighter tolerances ensure that the drilled hole closely matches the specified diameter, which is critical in precision applications.

These drills are designed for creating smooth holes. Creating threaded holes in hard materials typically requires additional specialized tools tools which we produce as well. Contact us for assistance

Assess the quality by examining the hole’s diameter accuracy, smoothness of the walls, and the absence of cracks or chips. Use precision measuring tools for accurate assessment.

Drilling angled holes in curved surfaces is challenging and requires specialized setup and equipment. Consult with technical experts for guidance on such specific applications.

Yes, with extreme precision and the right setup, these drills can be used for delicate materials like optical fibers. However, specialized techniques and handling are required to prevent damage.

For repeated drilling, ensure the material is stable and not overheated. Regularly check the drill for wear and adjust drilling parameters if necessary to maintain consistency and quality.

Proper drill alignment is crucial for achieving accurate hole locations and dimensions. Misalignment can lead to off-center holes, irregular shapes, or damage to the material. This is specially true for very small diamond core drills

Yes, but it’s important to manage heat effectively through appropriate coolant use and drilling parameters, as materials with high thermal conductivity can quickly dissipate heat, affecting drilling efficiency.

It’s generally recommended to proceed in gradual depth increments, especially for deeper holes, to allow for debris removal and prevent excessive heat buildup.

These drills are designed for standard, straight holes. Creating undercuts or non-standard profiles typically requires specialized tooling or techniques.

A smoother surface finish can aid in achieving more precise and clean holes, while a rough surface may require adjustments in drilling speed and pressure to maintain accuracy.

For crack-prone materials, use lower feed rates, ensure adequate support for the material, and apply consistent, gentle pressure. Also, using the appropriate coolant is crucial to prevent thermal stress.

Consistent hole diameters require regular monitoring of drill wear, maintaining stable drilling conditions, and replacing the drill once it shows signs of significant wear.

Yes, their precision and ability to drill hard, brittle materials make them suitable for medical device manufacturing, where exact dimensions and clean holes are critical.

Safety precautions include using protective eyewear and gloves, ensuring a stable drilling setup, and being aware of the high temperatures that can be generated during drilling

To manage vibrations, ensure the drill and material are securely mounted, use the correct drilling speed, and apply steady, controlled pressure. Excessive vibrations can indicate misalignment or an unsuitable drilling speed.

While they may be used for some advanced materials, it’s important to understand the specific properties of the material and adjust drilling techniques accordingly. Consult with experts for materials like nanocomposites.

Diamond core drills typically have a lower wear rate when used correctly, especially compared to standard drills, due to their hard diamond cutting surfaces and robust construction.

Yes, these drills are well-suited for automated manufacturing processes, especially where precision and repeatability are crucial. Ensure the automated system is compatible with the drill specifications.

 The material hardness determines the required diamond grit size and bond type. Harder materials typically require a finer grit and a stronger bond to ensure effective drilling and longer drill life.

While diamond core drills are versatile, extreme drilling angles may require specialized equipment and setup for accurate and effective drilling.

While primarily designed for drilling, with the right setup and appropriate drill sizes, they can potentially be used for detailed work or engraving on hard materials.

The appropriate drill speed varies depending on the material’s hardness, thickness, and the desired finish. Refer to the our RPM’S guidelines and start with a lower speed, gradually increasing as needed.

Diamond core drills have good chemical resistance, but it’s important to use compatible coolants and be aware of any chemical interactions with the materials being drilled.

Yes, these drills are suitable for precision drilling in aerospace components where high accuracy and quality are essential. Ensure the drill specifications match the requirements of the aerospace materials.

In low-temperature environments, ensure the material and drill are not overly brittle. Adjust the drilling speed and pressure accordingly to account for potential changes in material properties.

The feed rate depends on the drill size, material hardness, and desired hole quality. For deeper holes, a slower feed rate may be necessary to prevent overheating and ensure effective debris removal.

Yes, their precision and ability to drill hard materials make them ideal for material science research, where controlled and accurate drilling is required.

First-time users should familiarize themselves with the drill specifications, start with lower speeds in the recommended rpm’s range and slower feed rates, and gradually adjust as they become more comfortable with the drill’s performance.

Diamond core drilling offers mechanical precision and is generally more cost-effective for bulk material removal compared to laser drilling with less surface deformation and stress to the materials. Specially when drilling deeper holes. However, laser drilling might provide better control for extremely small or complex features.

Dressing of diamond core drills can be done by drilling into dressing stone several times to wear away the metal layer in order to exposé the diamond crystals and sharpen the diamond crystal at the same time.

Diamond core drills are durable and long-lasting, reducing the need for frequent replacements. This durability can lead to less waste and a lower environmental impact over the tool’s lifetime.

Proper alignment involves carefully mounting the drill in the machine, checking for any runout or misalignment, and making necessary adjustments to ensure the drill is perfectly centered and stable

Yes, their precision makes them suitable for the fabrication of electronic components, especially when drilling is required in hard or brittle materials like ceramics or certain composites.

Larger diamond grit sizes typically allow for faster drilling but may result in a rougher finish, while finer grit sizes drill slower but produce a smoother finish.

Store the drills in a dry, stable environment away from extreme temperatures and humidity. Protective cases or holders can prevent physical damage and contamination

Thicker materials require more careful management of drilling parameters, such as speed and coolant flow, to ensure efficient drilling and prevent overheating or excessive wear.

Yes, these drills are well-suited for drilling in geological samples where precision and minimal sample disturbance are required.

Safety protocols include wearing protective gear, ensuring stable and secure drilling setups, and being aware of the high rotational speeds and potential for flying debris.

The diamond core drill design, particularly the relief/clearance between the steel tube and diamond section, greatly impacts how effectively debris is removed from the drilling site, which is crucial for maintaining drilling efficiency and preventing overheating.

Drilling advanced materials like graphene or carbon nanotubes requires specialized techniques. Consult with material experts and us for the suitability and optimal drilling parameters.

The primary lubrication for these drills comes from the coolant used during drilling. Using the right coolant is essential for both lubrication and temperature control.

Higher quality diamonds typically provide better cutting performance, longer life, and more consistent results. The quality of the diamonds is a key factor in the overall performance of the drill.

Drilling at oblique angles is possible but requires careful setup to ensure accuracy and prevent the drill from slipping or causing material damage.

Monitor drilling performance and efficiency regularly. Visible signs of wear, decreased drilling speed, or a reduction in hole quality

To reduce heat generation, use adequate coolant flow, drill at the recommended speed, and avoid excessive feed rates. Ensuring sharpness of the drill also helps in reducing heat by improving cutting efficiency.

 While primarily designed for hard, brittle materials, with careful setup and appropriate parameters, these drills can be used on thin metal films on hard substrates. Consult with us for specific guidance.

Excessive feed pressure can lead to drill breakage or damage to the material. Conversely, insufficient pressure can result in inefficient drilling. It’s important to find a balance that allows efficient cutting without overstressing the drill or material.

High RPMs can increase the risk of overheating, while low RPMs may lead to inefficient drilling. It’s crucial to adjust the coolant flow and feed rate accordingly and to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for optimal RPMs.

 For vibration-sensitive materials, use a stable drilling setup, appropriate drill speeds, and secure clamping to minimize vibration. It’s also helpful to select a drill with a design that inherently produces less vibration.

The appropriate diamond depth depends on the material’s hardness and abrasiveness, as well as the desired drilling lifespan. Harder, more abrasive materials typically benefit from a deeper diamond layer for extended durability. As they wear the diamond section much faster.

For temperature-sensitive materials, use coolants that maintain a consistent temperature and effectively remove heat from the drilling area. It’s also important to ensure that the coolant does not chemically react with the material.

Drilling in composite materials with mixed hardness requires careful selection of drilling parameters to account for the different material properties. Consult with the us  for advice on handling such materials.

The interior diameter tolerance directly affects the diameter tolerance of the core size and the uniformity of the core samples, if extracted. Tight tolerances are crucial for applications where dimensional accuracy is critical.

After use, clean the drills with an appropriate solvent to remove debris and coolant residues. Dry them thoroughly before storage, and handle them carefully to avoid any damage to the cutting edges.

Creating holes with a tapered profile typically requires specialized drill bits designed for that purpose. Standard diamond core drills are designed for creating straight, cylindrical holes. Consult with us for required tools for that application.

The outside diameter tolerance influences how precisely the hole will fit with other components, especially in applications requiring tight assembly tolerances. More precise tolerances lead to a better fit and alignment. More precision tolerances are available upon request at additional cost

Yes, diamond core drills can produce a high-quality surface finish inside the hole, but the finish quality also depends on the material being drilled and the drilling parameters used

The optimum diamond size and concentration depend on the material hardness, the required drilling speed, and the desired hole quality. Consult with us for recommendations based on your specific application.