In machining and workshop applications, drill chucks are basic holding devices used to clamp tools such as drill bits, centre drills or reamers quickly, conveniently and economically.
Watch Temak Teknik’s video below detailing the use of drill chucks on CNC and drilling machines and the selection criteria:
Key Features and Types
- Fast, Keyless Changeover: Drill chucks allow drill bits within certain diameter ranges (e.g. 1–13 mm or 1–16 mm) to be clamped and released conveniently, without the need for additional collets or reduction sleeves [00:37].
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Types of Drill Chucks
- Keyed / Geared Drill Chucks: Models tightened using a chuck key on the side. Commonly used on pillar drills and hand drills [00:19].
- Precision / CNC-Type Drill Chucks: Versions with a wrench slot or tightened directly by hand, used on CNC machining centres to increase torque and achieve higher runout accuracy [00:11].
Correct Use and Limitations
- Three-Point Clamping Principle: Drill chucks hold the tool with three internal jaws [01:00].
- No Side Cutting (Not Suitable for Milling Cutters): Lateral cutting operations must never be performed with an end mill or reamer fitted in a drill chuck [00:49]. Radial (lateral) forces damage the jaws and cause the tool to run out or be ejected [01:12]. Drill chucks are designed only for axial (drilling) forces.