Cleveland C04368 Screw Machine Drill Bit Wire 55 Hss

Product Description

The CLEVELAND C04368 is a screw machine length (stub-length) drill bit in wire gauge size 55, measuring 0.0520 inches in diameter. Built from high-speed steel (HSS) with a bright, uncoated finish, it features a standard 118-degree split point and a two-flute, right-hand spiral configuration. The short overall length of 1-5/8 inches provides added rigidity compared to jobber-length bits, reducing deflection and improving hole location accuracy in light drilling operations. Web-thinned geometry reduces thrust and helps the point engage the workpiece cleanly. This bit is installed by machinists, tool-and-die technicians, and maintenance mechanics requiring precise small-diameter holes in production or bench settings.

This bit is suited for drilling alloy steels and aluminum in screw machine, CNC, and manual drill press applications. The short flute length of 5/8 inch and 1-inch straight-cylindrical shank are designed for use in tight-clearance setups where a standard jobber bit would flex or wander. General-purpose performance makes it a practical choice for high-volume small-diameter drilling where frequent bit changes are common. Meets ASME B94.11M standards with ANSI specification designation.

Key Features

• Wire gauge size 55, 0.0520-inch diameter with diameter tolerance of +0.0000 to -0.0005 inches for consistent hole sizing
• High-speed steel construction for general-purpose drilling in alloy steel and aluminum
• 118-degree standard point angle with web-thinned, parallel web configuration for reduced entry thrust
• Short screw machine length (1-5/8 inches OAL) adds rigidity and minimizes deflection in close-tolerance work
• Right-hand cut, two-flute spiral design for efficient chip evacuation in shallow holes
• Bright, uncoated finish - compatible with cutting fluids and coolant strategies without coating interference

Compatibility

Designed as an OEM-style general-purpose screw machine drill bit suitable for use in standard drill chucks, collet holders, and screw machine spindles accepting a 0.0520-inch straight-cylindrical shank.

Installation Notes

Installation is performed by machinists or maintenance mechanics in drill press, CNC, or hand-held drilling applications. Secure the shank fully in the chuck or collet before operation and verify runout before drilling to tolerance. Use appropriate cutting fluid for the workpiece material to extend bit life. Bits of this diameter are fragile - avoid side loading and never use a dull bit, as breakage risk increases significantly at sub-1/16-inch diameters.