Fitting Tiny Bits in Drill Collet
by number8wire in Workshop > Tools
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Fitting Tiny Bits in Drill Collet
To drill component holes in PCBs very small drill bits are required. The one I usually use is only 0.8mm diameter.
It;s a problem finding a collet small enough to hold bits of this size and when you do it's even more frustrating trying to keep the bit straight while tightening it.
I've found a simple way to fit these tiny bits into larger rotary tool collets and it keeps the bit straight too!
It;s a problem finding a collet small enough to hold bits of this size and when you do it's even more frustrating trying to keep the bit straight while tightening it.
I've found a simple way to fit these tiny bits into larger rotary tool collets and it keeps the bit straight too!
Materials
Besides a rotary tool (such as a dremel) the following is required:
- A collet (the smallest one that came with mine holds bits as small as about 1mm)
- A drill bit (the pesky small 0.8mm bit I use)
- Heat shrink (small diameter)
Simply cut a small length of heat shrink and shrink it on the shaft of the bit.
This makes the shaft slightly wider and gives the collet something to grip.
The first time I used it the bit centered itself easily and worked perfectly.
This makes the shaft slightly wider and gives the collet something to grip.
The first time I used it the bit centered itself easily and worked perfectly.