Analyzing the Potential of Drill Bits 3D Printed Using the Direct Metal Laser Melting (DMLM) Technology to Drill Holes in Polyamide 6 (PA6).

Drilling with standard twist drill bits is the most common method to create cylindrical holes. With the constant development of additive manufacturing technologies and easier access to additive manufacturing equipment, it is now possible to design and fabricate solid tools suitable for various machining applications. Specially designed 3D printed drill bits seem more convenient for standard and nonstandard drilling operations than conventionally made tools. The study described in this article aimed to analyze the performance of a solid twist drill bit made from steel 1.2709 using direct metal laser melting (DMLM), which was compared with that of a drill bit manufactured conventionally. The experiments involved assessing the dimensional and geometric accuracy of the holes made by the two types of drill bits and comparing the forces and torques occurring during the drilling of holes in cast polyamide 6 (PA6).