M.a. Ford 20604200 Screw Machine Drill Bit 0.042 in

Product Description

The M.A. FORD 20604200 is a screw machine length (stub-length) drill bit ground from solid carbide stock. It carries a 0.042 inch diameter with a 118-degree faceted point angle and a web-thinned geometry that reduces thrust on entry. The two-flute regular spiral design clears chips efficiently in short, confined drilling cycles. At 1.5 inches overall length with a 0.375 inch flute, this bit is built for high-precision, low-deflection work in CNC and manual screw machine operations. The bright uncoated finish suits applications where coating interaction with the workpiece is a concern.

This drill bit is designed for drilling cast iron, non-ferrous metals, stainless steel, and steel. The short overall length and straight-cylindrical shank make it a standard choice in screw machine setups, gang-drill fixtures, and precision CNC drilling stations where rigidity and hole location accuracy are critical. Machinists, tool-and-die workers, and precision metalworking shops are the primary users of this style bit.

Key Features

• Solid carbide construction for rigidity and wear resistance in hard and abrasive workpiece materials
• 118-degree faceted point angle with web-thinned geometry reduces entry thrust
• Two-flute regular spiral flute configuration promotes chip evacuation in short-cycle drilling
• Bright uncoated finish — no coating interaction with workpiece material
• Straight-cylindrical shank with 1.125 inch shank length fits standard drill chucks and collets
• Diameter tolerance held to +0.0000 to -0.0005 inches for precise hole sizing
• Coolant-through not required; compatible with flood or mist external coolant delivery

Compatibility

Designed for use in screw machines, CNC drilling centers, and precision drill press setups accepting a straight-cylindrical shank at 0.042 inch diameter. Rated for cast iron, non-ferrous metal, stainless steel, and steel workpieces per M.A. FORD Series 206 specifications.

Installation Notes

A licensed machinist or qualified metalworking technician should install this bit in a properly sized collet or drill chuck, ensuring the shank is fully seated and runout is within acceptable limits before operation. Secure the workpiece and verify spindle speed and feed rate are appropriate for the workpiece material and bit diameter before engaging the cut. At 0.042 inches diameter, carbide is brittle — avoid side loading, interrupted cuts without proper feed control, and re-chucking a bit that shows visible edge damage. Follow shop safety procedures and applicable OSHA machining standards when operating drilling equipment.