Adjustable Reamers
Adjustable reamers are precision cutting hand tools that are suited for smoothing the inside of holes once bored.
Here at Cromwell, we stock a range of adjustable reamers from quality cutting tool brands like Dormer so you can be assured of both quality and choice.
What is an adjustable reamer?
A versatile and handy tool, adjustable reamers are designed to smooth the bore of a hole after drilling. They are mostly employed when precision with sizing the hole is needed.
Why adjustable reamers?
They have an advantage over solid reamers as they feature both adjustable and replaceable blades meaning they can cover a limited range of hole sizing. They come in several dimension parameters with smaller sizes for smaller holes and larger sizes for reaming larger holes. Their adjustability also gives them an advantage over traditional solid reamers as sharpening a solid reamer reduces its diameter, over time this will mean the tool is less accurate and will need replacing. With an adjustable reamer you can adjust the blade after sharpening and when the blade is worn out, it can be replaced without replacing the whole tool, making them more cost effective.
When are adjustable reamers used?
Adjustable reamers are most commonly used in metalworking, where precision is key for parts to be accurately slotted together. By smoothing the bore hole, you can ensure the right fit first time.
Considerations when choosing an adjustable reamer
• Length - Depending on the depth of the hole that you wish to smooth, you will need to find the appropriate length of reamer.
• Material - adjustable reamers are most commonly manufactured from HSS (High Speed Steel), but are also available in different materials depending on your required application.
Adjustable reamer jargon buster
We want to make it easy for you to shop our range of adjustable reamers, so we've outlined and explained some key terms below.
What is an expansion reamer and is it the same as an adjustable reamer?
An expansion reamer differs from an adjustable reamer in several ways; expansion reamers possess an internal tapered plug that can only be adjusted a small amount, whereas adjustable reamers have a much larger scope of adjustment and are done so via the nuts on either end.
FAQs
How do I sharpen an adjustable reamer?
Adjustable reamers don't lend themselves to hand sharpening, so to sharpen the blades you will need a cutter grinder. This will keep the cutting edges concentric, and ensure that all the blades cut evenly.
How do I use an adjustable reamer?
Adjustable reamers are simple tools to use. Firstly, you'll need to select the size parameter that is suitable for the hole you wish to ream, then you'll need to adjust the blade to the correct size for the hole. This is done using an adjustable wrench, simply turn the nut at the end of the reamer clockwise and the other nut anti-clockwise to set the blade size. Ensure your blade is set right before you lock them into place and be sure not to overtighten.
Attach a t-handle wrench over the square end of the reamer and tighten until secure. Be sure to oil the blades before reaming the hole. Once aligned with the hole, turn the reamer clockwise and be sure to maintain turning in the same direction and be sure to apply more cutting lubricant every few turns. When it comes to sizing the hole correctly, less is more. Use thin cuts and readjust the blades until the hole is the required size.
As always you should wear eye protection and ensure that the workpiece is securely held in place before reaming.