Start with the board, operation and full tool dimensions
To choose a PCB drill bit, define the board material and hole requirement first. Then specify cutting diameter, flute length, shank and overall length together. Confirm the geometry and machine compatibility before selecting trial conditions.
1. Identify the board and finished-hole requirement
Record the laminate grade, board thickness, copper construction and intended stack. A finished plated-hole dimension is not automatically the drill diameter: the relevant production process must determine any required allowance. Ask the process owner to confirm the actual tool size.
2. Distinguish the four tool dimensions
- Cutting diameter: the specified diameter of the cutting section.
- Flute length: the length of the fluted section, which must be reviewed against the working depth and process.
- Shank diameter: the dimension used to match the tool to its holder or collet.
- Overall length: the end-to-end dimension of the tool.
Our PCB drill bit dimensions guide shows catalogue examples and explains why these dimensions are not interchangeable.
3. Choose the appropriate family
Use standard PCB drills as the reference family for conventional drilling enquiries. If the application calls for a reduced-body geometry, compare the full drawing with an undercut drill. Slots and routed profiles need their own operation brief rather than an assumption that any drill can make the feature.
4. Check the machine and support arrangement
Provide the machine model, spindle operating range, holder or collet details, tool seating arrangement and drilling cycle. Include the board support, entry and backing materials if they are relevant. A different drill does not remove the need to resolve mechanical setup issues.
5. Define the trial before changing production
Agree the inspection method and acceptance criteria for hole condition, location and tool wear. Keep the board, machine settings and inspection method consistent when comparing tools. Record any parameter changes; do not treat a trial on one material or machine as a universal setting.
Copy this quotation checklist
- Board material and board / stack thickness.
- Tool family or current drawing reference.
- Cutting diameter and required flute length.
- Shank diameter and overall length.
- Machine, cycle and current operating conditions.
- Quantity, required delivery timing and intended inspection.
- Photographs or a concise description of any current issue.
Selection questions
Is the longest flute the safest choice?
No single flute length is automatically the right choice. Select it against the working depth, geometry and setup rather than assuming that extra length is beneficial.
Can the same catalogue diameter have different flute lengths?
Yes. The standard drill catalogue includes, for example, a 0.10 mm cutting diameter with 1.5 or 1.8 mm flute lengths. Confirm the complete combination when ordering.
Send your PCB tool specification to discuss the appropriate family and quotation details.
Discuss your application
Share the board material, tool dimensions and the issue you are seeing.
Prepare an enquiry ↗