Importance of Pillar Drill Guarding

The pillar drill, also called a column drill, is a machine tool that allows parts to be machined by different methods: perforating, drilling, spotting and reaming. On this type of machine it is possible to work metal parts of different dimensions, but it is commonly used to machine small parts.

What is a pillar drill?

The pillar drill or column drill is one of the most widely used machine tools in machine shops thanks to the large number of operations it can perform. This machine is characterised by performing two combined movements to operate: the rotary cutting movement, which is performed by the machine; and the feed movement, which is rectilinear and vertical and is performed by the part to be machined. This part, in turn, is clamped to the table.

This machine tool works because its motor is responsible for driving the spindle through a series of pulleys that run on a very strong belt. While this is happening, one of the rotating arms of the lever built into the machine must also be turned by hand to drive the feed.

The risk of machine tools

All machine tools pose a risk to workers, which is why it is important for them to be used properly and in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, for preventive maintenance to be carried out and for operators to wear suitable clothing and equipment. This not only protects operators but also prevents the machine from developing faults that could lead to an emergency stop of production.

Why is pillar drill guarding important?

A pillar drill can pose risks to operators if it is not used properly; in addition, as we mentioned earlier, if specific recommendations are not followed, the drill may develop faults and, as a result, need repair and stop the production line. But what are the risks of a pillar drill?

• Ejection of particles and fragments of material (swarf).
• Entanglement of the upper limbs caused by the objects being machined, by the drill bit or by both. It can also be caused by the belts and pulleys of the machine while the head speeds are being changed.
• Knocks and cuts from objects and cutting tools, as well as from the part being machined.
• Falling materials while they are being handled.
• Accidents involving personnel.
• Exposure to harmful gases and substances, as well as to dust particles and chemicals used for drilling, such as cutting oil.
• Exposure to electrical contact.
• Exposure to noise and vibration.

Having covered the risks involved in drilling, it is important to point out that the operator must have the necessary qualifications to use this machine tool, but must also be equipped with suitable work clothing (PPE) to be well protected. In addition, the following must be taken into account:

• Do not hold the part with your hands while it is being drilled.
• Check that the drill's head covers are properly in place, that is, that they are not raised. If they are, put them back properly and secure them.
• Keep the work area tidy and clean, and remove all items that are not needed for this machining.
• Keep an eye on the clamping of the part, particularly when large drill bits are used.
• Check that the machine is not running if you want to change the part.
• Remove swarf with a special brush and only when the machine is not running.
• The drill must have an emergency stop button within the operator's reach and a protective screen.
• The electrical circuit must be earthed and have an electrical cabinet with a residual current device.
• Use the pillar drill guarding measures available, such as protection to prevent the motor from overheating.
• Choose the right drill bit for the machining and check its condition before using it. Replace or sharpen it when necessary.

Pillar drill protective screen

When a pillar drill is used in the workshop, it is most advisable to fit a protective screen to the machine. By following the necessary recommendations and precautions, and with these guards, you can prevent accidents that put operators at risk and stop production.

This accessory serves to increase safety on machines and work equipment while they are in use. Protective screens are easily fitted to the machine tool and effectively protect against the hazards of ejected material and of contact with the cutting tools, as well as splashes, fluids and dust particles.

In addition, these screens help to prevent clothing from getting caught in the machine or the operator's hand from coming into contact with the machine's mechanisms while it is running.

These screens can be made of polycarbonate or aluminium and the choice depends on the type of use they are put to. Both protect the drill and the operator effectively.