M.a. Ford 20604300 Carbide Drill Bit 0.043 in

Product Description

The M.A. FORD 20604300 is a screw machine length (short-length) drill bit with a 0.043 inch diameter, manufactured from solid carbide for rigid cutting performance in demanding materials. The 118-degree faceted drill point and web-thinned geometry reduce entry force and improve chip evacuation. With a standard straight-cylindrical shank and spiral flute design, this bit mounts directly into conventional drill chucks and collet holders. It is sized to wire gauge number 57 and carries a bright, uncoated finish. Right-hand cutting direction and a 3xD flute-to-diameter ratio make it well suited for precision hole production in short-run and production machining environments.

This drill bit is intended for use in screw machine operations, CNC drilling, and manual drill press work where tight hole tolerances and minimal runout are required. Primary workpiece materials include cast iron, non-ferrous metals, stainless steel, and steel. The short overall length of 1.5 inches improves rigidity and reduces deflection when drilling small-diameter holes at higher spindle speeds. Machinists and toolroom technicians working with precision components and close-tolerance bores will find the solid carbide construction appropriate for hard and abrasive materials that would rapidly wear high-speed steel tooling.

Key Features

• Solid carbide construction for extended tool life in hard and abrasive workpiece materials
• 118-degree faceted drill point with web thinning for reduced thrust and cleaner entry
• Wire gauge number 57 sizing at 0.043 inch diameter with tolerance of +0.0000 to -0.0005 inches
• Screw machine (short) length overall at 1.5 inches for improved rigidity and reduced deflection
• Straight-cylindrical shank at 0.043 inch diameter for compatibility with standard drill chucks and collets
• Bright, uncoated finish suitable for applications where coating buildup or chemical interaction is a concern

Compatibility

Designed for use in screw machines, CNC machining centers, and drill presses with chucks or collets accepting a 0.043 inch straight-cylindrical shank. Suitable for cast iron, non-ferrous metal, stainless steel, and steel workpieces as specified for M.A. FORD Series 206.

Installation Notes

Installation and use should be performed by qualified machinists familiar with small-diameter carbide tooling. Secure the shank fully within the chuck or collet and verify runout before drilling to prevent bit breakage at this diameter. Carbide is brittle — avoid side loads, interrupted cuts without proper feed rate adjustment, and impacts that can chip the cutting edge. Follow machine tool manufacturer guidelines for spindle speed and feed rate when drilling into stainless steel or hardened materials.