Is It Possible To Drill With A Screwdriver

Is it possible to drill with a screwdriver

If you have a model that has two modes of operation. drilling and a screwdriver. Usually professional models have such capabilities, for example Makita DF347DWE. It is not necessary to use a model that does not have a drilling mode, the engine may burn out, since drilling requires higher revolutions to reduce the load.

Charging the screwdriver

The most important part of the operation of the tool, on which the duration of the device’s operation largely depends. How to charge a screwdriver battery depends on its type. The most common lithium-ion batteries. Such a battery with its compact dimensions quickly charges and has no memory effect. The main disadvantage is a quick discharge in the cold and a high price.

Older models have nickel-cadmium batteries. They are cheap, reliable, but have a memory effect. That is, if you do not completely discharge them before charging, then gradually the battery capacity will decrease.

How much you need to charge the battery depends on its type and capacity. Li-Ion batteries gain charge most quickly. The battery of a household screwdriver takes an hour to charge. The same capacity Ni-Cd battery will be charged for 7 hours.

How do you know if a screwdriver is loaded? The charger has an indicator, for example, for the DeWalt 572576-01 model, it is on the right. The red light is on. the battery is charging, the green light. can be used. You can also focus on your own experience. By the charging time and the nature of the screwdriver’s work, you can judge the charging of its battery.

If you have a model with a nickel-cadmium battery, then you should know how to swing a screwdriver battery, which will inevitably decrease its capacity after several years of use. And if you use the tool incorrectly, that is, do not bring the battery to full discharge before charging, then faster.

In order to restore capacity, you need to know how to discharge a screwdriver battery correctly. And this means a smooth decrease in the charge, by connecting a twelve-volt light bulb with a power of 25.40 watts to it. After a complete discharge, charge the battery to the eyeballs and then discharge it again. Repeat the procedure at least 5 times. The capacity cannot be fully restored by such a procedure, but the operating time of the screwdriver can be significantly increased.

Equipment installation

The screwdriver can be equipped with drills or nozzles for twisting and unscrewing screws. When the required bit is selected, it is necessary to rotate the chuck sleeve counterclockwise until its jaws are separated by a distance sufficient to insert the drill shank or screw bits between them. Then the clamp is made in the reverse order. There are two types of cartridges:

• The clamp is made without a key, but only by rotating the cartridge case by hand;
• Requiring pressure with a special key, which is inserted into the recess in the chuck and rotates it, leaning against the toothed rim, for example, as in the Dnipro-M 1/2 ″ x20 gear chuck.

How to remove a chuck from a screwdriver, for example, to lubricate it or replace it if it does not fix the bit poorly. In modern models, the chucks are screwed onto the shaft and for reliability they are locked with a screw with a left-hand thread. This is how the cartridges are attached in Makita, Bosch and other screwdrivers. It is necessary to unscrew the screw and unscrew the cartridge by turning counterclockwise. Detailed instructions on how to do this are available in the documentation for the tool.

Is it possible to cut a thread with a screwdriver

It is possible, but with reservations. Firstly, small diameters, up to 10 mm. You will definitely not thread a ¾ ”pipe. Secondly, only internal. You will not install the die on the screwdriver. Third, skill is required. A slight misalignment and that’s it, either break the tap or just ruin the thread. Minimal cutting effort!

Preparing the screwdriver for work

To bring this device into working condition it is necessary:

1. Pull it out of the case and inspect for visible damage. cracks on the case, etc. Do not use the tool if found.

2. After inspection, dock the battery to it, and then make sure that there is enough charge to start work. If the battery slowly rotates the tool spindle, you need to remove the battery and put it on charge (see below for how to recharge the battery), and instead connect another battery to the tool.

3. After making sure that the battery has accumulated a sufficient charge, the required attachment is installed in the screwdriver, depending on the nature of the work (screwing screws or drilling) and the size of the screws. We will tell you in detail about the installation of the nozzle further, but here we focus on the fact that for the safety of work during installation or replacement of the nozzle, the battery must be removed so as not to accidentally turn on the screwdriver.

4. Using the knobs on the instrument, select:

• The operating mode is drilling, working with screws, in some models there is also an impact mode, for example, the Bosch GSR 180-LI.
• Rotation speed of the nozzle (if the tool model has several stages of rotation, for example Makita DF347DWE); direction of rotation. for drilling and screwing screws clockwise, for unscrewing screws. against.

5. If you are going to drill to a certain depth, then in the models of screwdrivers where there are limiters on the drilling depth, you must set it.

Remember that the correct preparation of the tool is the key to working safely with it.

How to use a screwdriver correctly and safely

Working with this tool is intuitive. But you need to know certain subtleties that reduce the risk of injury and tool breakage. So, how to tighten the self-tapping screw with a screwdriver safely:

1. Carefully read the instructions BEFORE using the instrument for the first time, and not after something unpleasant has happened.

2. Correctly select the maximum torque at which the safety "ratchet" will work and no force will be transmitted to the shaft. The tool is of course designed for maximum effort. But, firstly, constant work at the maximum reduces the service life. Secondly, the likelihood increases that the screwdriver can pull out of your hands. Thirdly, by learning how to correctly determine the maximum torque, you will reduce the likelihood of damage to the surfaces where you screw the screws. This is especially true for polished and fragile surfaces. For example, in the Bosch GSR 10.8 model, the maximum torque is 30 Nm, but you can also set 5 Nm.

3. Choose the right operating mode. It is not necessary to drill in the screwdriver mode, and even more so to tighten the screws in the drilling mode, where the speed is higher. The tool may simply be snatched from your hands.

4. Do not forget to control the direction of rotation. We tighten the screw. the cartridge should rotate clockwise, we unscrew it. against.

5. Do not change any cutting mode settings on the fly! This threatens to break the screwdriver and is unsafe.

Above we talked about the rules of safe work relating directly to the screwdriver. Now about the general organization of work with this tool:

• Work only with safety glasses and preferably with protective gloves, especially if you are drilling materials that can crack and "shoot" sharp fragments.
• Before drilling, make sure that there are no electrical cables and other utility lines in the area.
• When tightening and loosening screws, as well as drilling small holes in diameter, do not lean on the screwdriver. The screw or drill bit may break and injure you.
• Household and professional screwdriver models have different continuous operation times. In any case, it is! And it’s not worth bringing the instrument to a hot state.
• After work, you need to disconnect the battery, remove the attachment, wipe the tool from dust.

Design features and characteristics

The construction of a screwdriver consists of the following elements:

The device consists of various parts, the well-coordinated work of which ensures the performance of the desired functions.

• Pistol grip (for leading hand operation);
• Electrical engine;
• Coupling;
• Cartridge for fixing nozzles;
• Limiter. a button that starts and adjusts the rotation;
• Gear (reducer), from which rotation is transmitted from the engine to the shaft;
• Battery for supplying power and constant voltage to the motor.

The power source of the power tool is of 2 main types:

• Rechargeable. Autonomous due to internal battery.
• Network. Requires mains power when using. Such a power tool is much more powerful and cheaper than a cordless type.

The rechargeable type of device must be charged in a timely manner so that it does not fail at the most crucial moment.

The battery type loses its performance when discharged, so each time you should charge the tool according to the instructions before use. Network screwdrivers do not have this problem, since they are cabled to the network. For drilling concrete, the device is equipped with a hammer drilling function with a switch for the direction of rotation of the head. obverse and reverse. The second mode is used for dismantling. To drill holes in concrete, the models have a torque adjustment function. This is necessary to prevent the slot and replacement bits from becoming unusable.

Polishing

To polish the body, headlights of a car or other surface using a screwdriver, you need additional attachments. polishing wheels. Circles made of cord or leather are used for preliminary cleaning. Felt tips are used for both cleaning and final polishing.

• The surface to be polished is washed from dirt and dust;
• Dry;
• Apply an abrasive compound to the polishing wheel;
• Sequentially treat all areas with smooth movements without strong pressure.

In the process, the circle is periodically cleaned of paste residues using a clean rag. It takes a long time to polish and the battery may be discharged. If the device becomes very hot, you need to turn it off and wait a while before resuming operation.

Practical advice from the masters

It is important to use tools and fixtures correctly. A set of drills with different performance characteristics is prepared. Concrete walls are faced with wood, tiles, stone, which will require different drills. Before work, make sure that there is no wiring under the plaster in the place of drilling.

Before drilling, pay attention to important points:

• For holes deeper than 10 cm and more than 12 mm in diameter, use a puncher;
• Work begins at a reduced speed, the impact function is turned on when the rod deepens by 5 mm;
• Holes for dowels are drilled 10 mm longer than the plastic case.

Diamond drills are more expensive than victorious ones and are used only without turning on the percussion mechanism. They need to be cooled every 10 minutes, this must be done without water, only in air.

Dewalt DCD985M2

The difference between this screwdriver is:

• Powerful impact mechanism (drilling 13/60 mm in concrete, 16 mm in stone);
• 3-speed gearbox, the speed of which is adjustable by the consumer;
• For the torque mode, you can select 1 desired combination of 22;
• The speed block built into the tool gives additional control over the process;
• LED illumination;
• Specially designed chuck to drill a variety of materials;
• Functionality (closely related to technical characteristics);
• Compatible with fasteners to drill metal / wood / stone / concrete.

Conclusion

After you have familiarized yourself with the purpose, rules of operation and the main types of this tool, you can safely start using it. Remember that strict adherence to the instructions and the implementation of safety measures will help extend the life of the tool and protect you personally. Store the implement in a special box that children cannot access.

Before buying, consult with the seller, indicate to him the purpose of your purchase. The most optimal one will be selected for you. And the model you want. Product vary according to manufacturer / mechanical properties / composition. Under the right storage conditions / following the rules of operation, the tool will serve for several years. Pay attention to the terms of the warranty and possible repair of the warranty product.

Work rules

The rules for working with a concrete tool are not complex and do not set a clear framework. Remember safety measures, do not expose yourself and your structure to danger.

• Pre-charge the tool (be sure to observe the charging times indicated in the instructions for purchase. If you do not follow these rules, the tool can quickly become unusable);
• Install the required nozzle into the tool;
• Click on it to set the cartridge in motion;
• Use reverse to change chuck or drill;
• Try not to subject the weapon to shock, strong mechanical impact, this can spoil its quality characteristics;
• After use, wipe, clean and place in a dry place out of the reach of children.

Device and purpose

The screwdriver is used for various construction and repair work, but its main function is to quickly screw in and tighten fasteners: self-tapping screws, screws, bolts, screws.

It helps you tackle a lot of tasks in significantly less time than using a screwdriver.

Budget screwdrivers of low and medium power are used in the assembly, installation and dismantling of furniture, equipment, the construction of frame structures (partitions, walls, suspended ceilings) and other objects. Powerful hammering tool handles hole drilling.

In addition to the standard operations listed in the instructions for the screwdriver, it can be used for other tasks. With the help of a mixer nozzle, they are kneaded with thin solutions. Through a special adapter, connect the device to an ice drill to quickly make holes.

Most screwdrivers are made of plastic, which reduces the overall weight of the tool. Inside the case are located:

• Engine. Depending on the type of device, it can be electric or pneumatic. The former are powered by a network or accumulator, the latter are powered by a compressed air tank or compressor.
• Reducer. Gear mechanism that transmits rotary motion from the motor to the spindle.
• Regulator clutch. Connected to the gearbox, it is used to adjust the screwing depth and torque.
• Starting capacitor. He starts the engine.
• Chuck. Bits, drills, socket heads are inserted into it. The most common quick-clamping three- or four-jaw.
• Power supply (battery) and / or power cord.

On the case there is a control panel with a power button, a speed switch. To work in the unscrewing mode, reverse is used. Additionally, the screwdriver can be illuminated, a fuse.

Tips on how to use a screwdriver correctly

A screwdriver is a tool designed to tighten fasteners. If you have drills and special attachments, it can also be used to perform some other operations.

• Device and purpose
• How to work in twist mode?
• Can I drill?
• Polishing
• Operating tips
• Instrument care instructions

Can I drill?

It is possible to use a tool instead of a drill only if such a possibility is indicated in the technical passport of the device.

However, soft materials such as drywall can be drilled even with a low-power screwdriver.

To do this, instead of a bit, you need to insert a drill into the chuck to work with gypsum board.

To remove the drill or other bits, you need to unscrew the chuck by hand or wrench. You also need to move the sleeve to the appropriate position, usually this mode shows the drill icon. The attachment is placed at right angles to the marked surface. It is not recommended to deviate. this will complicate the drill stroke, increase the diameter of the hole being made.

To drill a concrete or brick wall, tiles, you will need a tool with a high rotation speed (from 1200 rpm) and a large torque. Impact screwdrivers do the job more efficiently and faster.

How to work in twist mode?

Before starting work, you need to prepare the tool. If it is running on battery power, you need to put it on charge.

The next step is setting the bit. To choose the right nozzle, you need to take into account the size of the fastener head and the type of slot. Bits differ in type and diameter:

• Slotted. Most commonly used. Designed for tightening countersunk head screws with a slot for a flat screwdriver, screws. Tip width varies.
• Cross. With their help, self-tapping screws, countersunk head screws are twisted and unscrewed. The tip has 4 radial diagonal ribs.
• Hexagonal. It is used for fasteners, the head of which has hexagonal recesses. Screws and screws of this type are used in the assembly of furniture and appliances.
• For bolts and nuts. A nozzle with a tip with a hexagonal recess inside. With it, the tool is used as a wrench, screws, screws, bolts are tightened.

There are other attachments, but they are less commonly used. How to change or even remove a bat? Having determined which bit is needed, insert it into the cartridge. The installation method depends on the type of cartridge. In a quick-release nozzle, insert it as follows: twist the chuck counterclockwise until the distance between the cams increases. Push the end of the nozzle between them, turn the cartridge clockwise so that the cams close and securely fix the part.

In a screwdriver equipped with a turnkey chuck, the process of changing the nozzle is more complicated. First, a key is inserted into a special hole on the device, rotated counterclockwise to loosen the clamp. Insert the bat, fix it by turning the key clockwise.

The next step is to test the functionality of the tool. If the screwdriver is powered from the mains, connect it to an outlet. Press the start button, check if the bit scrolls. The rotation speed is adjusted using the same button, weakening or increasing the pressure. Insert the tip of the bit into the recess on the head of the fastener, press the start button.

If you need to unscrew the self-tapping screw or screw, switch the reverse button.

Operating tips

To work effectively with a screwdriver, you need to set the correct torque. When working with soft materials (drywall), switch it to the minimum mode, when drilling or screwing fasteners into hard surfaces. to the maximum. Before changing the mode, you need to turn off the device and wait until the engine stops completely.

To prevent dust from flying into your eyes when drilling into the ceiling, you can put a plastic or paper cup on the drill. All dirt will collect in it, and it will be easier to control the progress of work.

Polishing

To polish the body, headlights of a car or other surface using a screwdriver, you need additional attachments. polishing wheels. Circles made of cord or leather are used for preliminary cleaning. Felt tips are used for both cleaning and final polishing.

• The surface to be polished is washed from dirt and dust;
• Dry;
• Apply an abrasive compound to the polishing wheel;
• Sequentially treat all areas with smooth movements without strong pressure.

In the process, the circle is periodically cleaned of paste residues using a clean rag. It takes a long time to polish and the battery may be discharged. If the device becomes very hot, you need to turn it off and wait a while before resuming operation.