Hertel 61698973 Screw Machine Drill Bit Letter I Hss

Product Description

The HERTEL 61698973 is a screw machine length drill bit designed for high-volume drilling in metal, wood, and plastic. Built from high-speed steel with an oxide coating, it runs a standard 118-degree point angle and a straight-cylindrical shank for use in conventional drill chucks and machine spindles. At 2.6875 inches overall length, the shortened flute geometry reduces deflection and improves rigidity compared to jobber-length bits. The two-flute spiral design clears chips efficiently during through-hole and blind-hole work. This bit is sized at Letter I, equivalent to 0.272 inches in decimal, and follows ANSI specification. Machinists, maintenance technicians, and metalworking professionals are the primary users.

Screw machine length drill bits are used in turret lathes, drill presses, CNC machining centers, and handheld power drills where a shorter, stiffer bit reduces chatter and improves hole accuracy. The 3xD flute-to-diameter ratio makes this bit well suited for shallow to moderate-depth holes in general-purpose production environments. The right-hand cutting direction is standard for conventional clockwise-rotation spindles. The oxide finish provides mild corrosion resistance and reduces friction during the cut.

Key Features

• Letter I size (0.272 inches decimal) following ANSI specification designation
• 118-degree standard point angle for general-purpose drilling in a wide range of materials
• High-speed steel construction with oxide coating for reduced friction and light corrosion resistance
• Screw machine length at 2.6875 inches OAL for increased rigidity and reduced deflection
• 1.5-inch flute length with 3xD flute-to-diameter ratio for efficient chip evacuation
• Straight-cylindrical shank compatible with standard drill chucks and machine tool holders

Compatibility

Designed as a general-purpose screw machine length drill bit compatible with any drill chuck or machine spindle accepting a straight-cylindrical shank in the 0.272-inch bit diameter range.

Installation Notes

This bit is installed and serviced by machinists and maintenance technicians. Secure the shank fully in the chuck or collet before operation and confirm the spindle is at a full stop before bit changes. Use appropriate cutting fluid for ferrous metals to extend tool life and improve hole finish. Inspect the cutting edges for wear or chipping before each use and discard bits that show signs of material fatigue.