Chicago-latrobe 48232 Screw Machine Drill Bit 0.5in Hss

Product Description

The CHICAGO-LATROBE 48232 is a heavy-duty screw machine length drill bit designed for high-production drilling in cast iron and steel. Built from high speed steel (HSS) with a coated finish, it carries a 135-degree split point that reduces walking and cuts through hard stock with less feed pressure. The parallel web and web-thinned geometry improve chip clearance and reduce torque demand at the spindle. At 3.75 inches overall length with a 2.25-inch flute, this stub-style bit fits standard drill chucks without overhang and handles interrupted cuts in tight setups. It is used by machinists, pipefitters, and general metalworkers running screw machines, drill presses, or hand-held power tools on production and maintenance work.

The 48232 is sized at 0.5 inches (1/2 inch) diameter with a straight-cylindrical shank and a right-hand spiral flute. Primary target materials are cast iron and steel, making it suited for mechanical, HVAC, plumbing, and structural fabrication applications where consistent hole quality in metal is required. The tight diameter tolerance of plus 0.0000 to minus 0.0010 inches ensures clean, on-size holes that meet close-fit fastener and reamer-prep requirements. The Series 2159 meets NAS 907 and ISO standards, which is relevant for aerospace-adjacent and industrial maintenance shops that document tooling compliance.

Key Features

• 135-degree split point reduces walking on hard stock and lowers required feed pressure
• Web-thinned, parallel web design improves chip evacuation and reduces spindle torque
• High speed steel construction with coated finish for extended tool life in cast iron and steel
• Tight diameter tolerance of plus 0.0000 to minus 0.0010 inches for consistent hole sizing
• Screw machine (stub) length at 3.75 inches overall reduces deflection in tight clearance setups
• Meets NAS 907 and ISO specifications for shops requiring documented tooling standards

Compatibility

Designed for drilling cast iron and steel in screw machine, drill press, and hand-held power tool applications. Straight-cylindrical shank fits standard 1/2-inch drill chucks and collet systems. Series 2159 geometry is intended for heavy-duty production and maintenance drilling where stub-length rigidity is required.

Installation Notes

Installation and use of this drill bit should be performed by qualified machinists or tradespeople familiar with metal-drilling operations. Secure the workpiece fully before drilling and verify chuck tightness before spindle engagement. Use appropriate cutting fluid or coolant for the target material to maintain edge life, as coolant-through is not available on this bit. Follow OSHA and shop-specific PPE requirements including eye protection and proper guarding on all rotating equipment.