M.a. Ford. 20537500 Screw Machine Drill Bit 3/8 in

Product Description

The M.A. FORD. 20537500 is a screw machine length drill bit designed for high-precision drilling in demanding industrial and manufacturing environments. Built from solid carbide with a bright/uncoated finish, this bit measures 0.375 inches in diameter with an overall length of 3.125 inches and a flute length of 1.8125 inches. The 135-degree split point reduces walking on entry and lowers thrust force, making it well-suited for production drilling where accuracy and tool life matter. Right-hand cut with a slow spiral, parallel web, and web-thinned geometry, this bit is used by machinists and tool-and-die professionals working with tight tolerances.

This drill bit is rated for use in cast iron, non-ferrous metals, stainless steel, and steel. The screw machine length format — shorter than a jobber bit — provides added rigidity and reduced deflection, which is particularly useful when drilling in CNC machining centers, turret lathes, or screw machines where stub-length tooling is preferred. The straight-cylindrical shank fits standard drill chucks and collet holders. The 3xD flute-to-diameter ratio and slow spiral geometry promote chip evacuation in interrupted cuts and gummy materials.

Key Features

• Solid carbide construction for extended tool life in hard and abrasive workpiece materials
• 135-degree split point reduces entry walking and lowers required thrust force
• Slow spiral flute promotes chip clearance in stainless steel and cast iron
• Web-thinned, parallel web geometry improves cutting efficiency and reduces heat buildup
• Bright/uncoated finish maintains dimensional accuracy for close-tolerance work
• Diameter tolerance of +0.0000 to -0.0005 inches ensures consistent hole sizing

Compatibility

Designed for use in cast iron, non-ferrous metal, stainless steel, and steel workpieces. Fits standard drill chucks and collet holders accepting a 0.375-inch straight-cylindrical shank. Part of M.A. FORD. Series 205, covering the 0.3500 to 0.4000 inch diameter range.

Installation Notes

Installation and use of this tooling should be performed by qualified machinists or toolroom professionals familiar with carbide drill bit handling. Carbide is brittle — avoid side loading, interrupted feeds, or over-tightening in the chuck, as these can cause chipping or breakage. Confirm spindle speed and feed rate are appropriate for the workpiece material before engaging the cut. Coolant-through is not supported by this bit; use flood or mist coolant at the entry point when drilling stainless steel or cast iron to manage heat.