M.a. Ford. 30204300 Circuit Board Drill Bit No. 57

Product Description

The M.A. FORD. 30204300 is a solid carbide circuit board drill bit engineered for precision drilling in printed circuit board fabrication and similarly demanding small-diameter applications. It carries a wire gauge size of No. 57, equal to 0.0430 inches (1.09 mm) in diameter, with a 130-degree drill point angle optimized for clean entry and minimal workpiece deflection. The fast spiral flute design with a 35-degree helix angle promotes efficient chip evacuation in deep or confined bores. The shank diameter is 0.125 inches (1/8 inch). This bit is installed and used by machining professionals, PCB fabricators, and precision manufacturing technicians.

This bit is suited for drilling cast iron, non-ferrous metals, alloy steel, carbon steel, stainless steel, high-temperature alloys, and titanium. Its compact overall length of 1.5 inches and 0.400-inch flute length make it appropriate for CNC drilling centers, benchtop PCB drill presses, and precision machine shop applications where tight tolerances and small-diameter bores are required. The tapered web configuration adds rigidity and reduces walking at entry.

Key Features

• Solid carbide construction for hardness and wear resistance in demanding materials
• No. 57 wire gauge size at 0.0430 inches (1.09 mm) diameter for precision small-bore applications
• 130-degree drill point angle for clean, low-thrust entry
• Fast spiral flute with 35-degree helix angle for effective chip removal
• Tapered web configuration increases bit rigidity and reduces deflection
• Right-hand cutting direction, uncoated finish, 2-flute design

Compatibility

Designed as a Series 302 replacement drill bit for use in CNC and manual drilling equipment accepting a 0.125-inch (1/8-inch) straight shank. Compatible with primary workpiece materials including cast iron, non-ferrous metal, alloy steel, carbon steel, stainless steel, high-temperature alloy, and titanium.

Installation Notes

Installation is performed by machinists and CNC setup technicians. Ensure the machine spindle and collet or chuck are powered down and fully stopped before inserting or removing the bit. Verify collet or chuck size matches the 0.125-inch shank diameter before clamping. Solid carbide bits are brittle — avoid side loading, using them as levers, or dropping them on hard surfaces, as chipping or fracture can result.