Chicago-latrobe 48532 Screw Machine Drill Bit 0.5 in Hss

Product Description

The CHICAGO-LATROBE 48532 is a screw machine length drill bit designed for general-purpose drilling in production and maintenance environments. It measures 0.5 inches in diameter with an overall length of 3.75 inches and a flute length of 2.25 inches. The bit is manufactured from high speed steel (HSS) with a bright uncoated finish and features a standard 118-degree split point with web thinning for improved centering and reduced thrust on entry. The straight cylindrical shank and two-flute spiral design make it compatible with standard drill chucks across a range of machine tools. Machinists, tool-and-die workers, and maintenance technicians are the primary users of this bit.

This bit is suited for drilling into cast iron, non-ferrous metals, and steel in both shop and field settings. Its screw machine length profile, shorter than jobber length, provides added rigidity and reduced deflection in turret lathes, screw machines, and drill presses where chuck clearance is limited. The general-purpose grade and ISO-standard geometry make it a reliable choice for repetitive production drilling as well as one-off maintenance tasks.

Key Features

• 0.5 inch diameter with diameter tolerance of +0.0000 to -0.0010 inches for consistent hole sizing
• 118-degree standard point angle with web thinning for reduced entry thrust and improved centering
• High speed steel construction provides durability across cast iron, non-ferrous metals, and steel
• Screw machine length body (3.75 inches overall) delivers greater rigidity and reduced deflection versus jobber length
• Bright uncoated finish suitable for general-purpose applications where specialized coatings are not required
• Right-hand cut with regular spiral flutes for efficient chip evacuation

Compatibility

The 48532 is part of CHICAGO-LATROBE Series 157 and is designed for use in standard drill chucks on screw machines, turret lathes, drill presses, and hand-held drill motors. Primary workpiece materials include cast iron, non-ferrous metals, and steel.

Installation Notes

Installation and use should be performed by qualified machinists or maintenance technicians familiar with machine tool operation. Secure the straight cylindrical shank fully into the drill chuck and verify runout before cutting. Ensure the workpiece is clamped or fixtured to prevent movement during drilling. Follow applicable shop safety protocols, including eye protection and appropriate speeds and feeds for the workpiece material.