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The Different Types of Boring

Boring is the process of enlarging a previously-drilled or cast hole using a single-point cutting tool or boring head. Drilling is done to create an initial hole in the part and boring to make the existing hole larger.

Awls, gimlets, and augers are used in boring and drilling. An awl is the simplest hole maker as it pushes material to one side without removing it. On the other hand, drills, gimlets, and augers have cutting edges that detach material to leave a hole.

Horizontal Boring produces a highly accurate cylindrical surface while enlarging the existing opening. There are three main types — table, planer, and floor. The table type is the most common, and, as it is the most versatile, it is also known as the universal type. The drilling and milling work can be done on a horizontally clamped workpiece. A movable column is used to carry the spindle headstock with the workpiece receptacle. 

Vertical boring is often large in size and uses a rotating piece attached to a horizontal table. Vertical boring mills can perform turning, boring, facing, tapering, and cutting of internal and external threads. It is used in various applications, including locomotive tires, machine tool tables, water turbine runners, machining turbine casing, ring gear blanks, and flanges for large pipes. 

Line boring, also known as align boring, is a machining process. The task involved here is to create perfectly straight and aligned bores. 

Jig Boring is used when holes of exact and precise diameter and location are required. A Vertical Jig Boring Machine offers sensitive adjustments to the table and the cutting tool position working within tolerances within ±.005 mm (±0.0002 inches).

Universal DeVlieg provides innovative and cost-cutting tool holding and high precision boring solutions to the machine tool industry, servicing a diversified customer base. The combination of over 32,000 active part numbers, over 10,000 standard items, and our technical support staff deliver design engineering expertise that is unmatched in the industry. To learn more about Universal DeVlieg, contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 877.308.3077 or visit at universaldevlieg.com.