What is friction drilling and how to use it?

One can easily judge the application of friction drilling by its name. This drilling process makes holes in the metals by using friction to heat the surface. Basically, the drill bit pushes the material in its way by producing heat through friction. In industrial terms, it is well known as flow drilling or thermal drilling.

The working principle of friction drilling is very simple and effective. It increases the cross-section if the thin tubular object and creates holes for industrial purposes. The material for the bit should be very hard and it is generally made of tungsten carbide. Tungsten carbide is the existing hardest material after diamond.

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Focusing on its invention in 1923 a Frenchman Jean-Claude de Valerie worked on making holes by using friction heat instead of machining. It didn’t get massive success as the correct material for the bit was not there for drilling. In the year 1980, friction drilling slowly gains success with the use of correct bit material.

Principle Working of Friction Drilling

Also Read: What is horizontal drilling and how does it work

Friction drilling is the simplest way to make holes in any kind of metals. The process includes imposing friction and pressure on the target area. The friction will produce enough heat and pressure will push the bit and make a hole.

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