Reaming is a high-precision hole finishing process using multi-edged tools. High penetration rates and small depths of cut enable high surface quality, excellent hole quality and tight 

dimensional tolerances.

Initial considerations for the reaming operation

When performing a reaming operation, there are several factors that need to be considered that affect the life of the reamer tool:

cutting depth

Cutting speed and feed

Workpiece material

Bounce

Offset

Coolant pressure and concentration

Intermittent cutting

Workpiece clamping

Geometry and grade

Tool length

Correct handle

General tips on reaming

In order to achieve optimal use of a reamer, it must be made to "work." A common mistake is to leave too little stock when preparing the hole for reaming. If insufficient stock is left in the 

hole before reaming, the reamer will rub, quickly showing signs of wear and causing a reduction in diameter. Also important to performance is not leaving too large a cutting allowance in the 

hole.

Choose the best reamer type for your application as well as the best reaming speed and feed. Make sure the pre-drilled holes are the correct diameter.

The workpiece must maintain high rigidity and the machine tool spindle must not move.

The chuck must be of high quality. If the reamer slips in the chuck with automatic feed, the reamer may break.

Keep tool overhang from the machine spindle to a minimum.

To extend tool life and ensure cutting fluid reaches the cutting edge, use recommended lubricants. Since reaming is not a strong cutting process, water-soluble oil diluted in a ratio of 40:1 can 

usually achieve satisfactory results. When dry machining, jet blasting can be used on gray cast iron.

Do not allow the reamer's chip flutes to become clogged with chips.

When resharpening a reamer, check center-to-center concentricity. In most cases, only the guide cone will need to be regrinded.

Keep your reamer sharp. Frequent resharpening ensures good economy, but it must be understood that only the bevel and taper lead of the reamer can be resharpened and not its land. 

Therefore, only these leads need to be reground. Regrinding accuracy is important for hole quality and tool life.