Flow Drilling Services

Flow drilling and tapping is an innovative and cost-efficient alternative to traditional fastening methods, such as weld nuts or nut-serts. It involves using a Flow Drill, which is slowly pressed into the material as it rotates at high speed. This process creates friction and heat, causing the material to “flow” and create a strong and uniform fixing, ultimately increasing the surface area that can be tapped without weak points.

Flow drilling works by utilising a Flow Drill that is pressed into the material while rotating at high speed. The friction and heat generated during this process cause the material to deform and create a strong, uniform fixing. This method increases the surface area available for tapping without introducing weak points

Tapping works by using a specialised tool called a tap, which is inserted into a pre-drilled hole. As the tap is rotated, it cuts and forms threads inside the hole. This process creates internal threads that match the specifications of the tap, allowing for the secure insertion of screws, bolts, or other threaded fasteners into the material.

The benefits of The Laser Cutting Co.’s flow drilling and tapping services include:

• Stronger fixing using existing material available.
• Zero waste production.
• Reduction of over 50% in production time and costs.
• Complete accuracy with a tolerance of +-0.25mm.
• No risk of alternative fixings spinning or breaking, both during the tapping stage or with the completed part/product.

Flow drilling and tapping can be applied to a variety of materials, including:

• Mild Steel
• Stainless Steel
• Copper
• Brass
• Bronze
• Aluminium

At The Laser Cutting Co., sizes range from M2 to M30, including BSP sizes, in material thicknesses from 0.5mm to 10mm. This flexibility allows for a wide range of applications across different industries.

For more information regarding our flow drilling and tapping services, contact The Laser Cutting Co. today.

Flow drilling and tapping form a key part of The Laser Cutting Co.’s Smart Design Production. This innovative approach not only guarantees accuracy and reliability of parts but also allows customers to benefit from up to 50% reductions in production time and costs, resulting in a more efficient production line.

Flow drilling creates threads by pressing a rotating tool into the material, utilising heat and friction, while tapping involves cutting threads with a threaded tool inserted into a pre-drilled hole.

Yes, they often work in conjunction. Drilling precedes tapping when creating holes for threaded connections.

For a free quote, get in touch with our team at The Laser Cutting Co. today.