What is a pillar drill and how does it work?
Elijah King
Updated on April 07, 2026
What is a pillar drill and how does it work?
A Pillar Drill is a machine that has a drill bit fixed to a sliding column which, through the action of a rotating handle, can be lowered and raised to perform a drilling action.
Why is it called a pillar drill?
The larger version of the machine drill is called the pillar drill. This has a long column which stands on the floor. This can do exactly the same work as the bench drill but because of its larger size it is capable of being used to drill larger pieces of materials and produce larger holes.
What can a pillar drill make?
A pillar drill helps you deliver a neat job. A pillar drill lets you set the drill depth down to the millimeter. You can also control the RPM. That means you can drill any material at the right speed.
What are the safety rules for using a pillar drill?
HEALTH AND SAFETY RULES:
- Only one person at a machine at one time.
- Tie long hair back.
- Know how to turn machine off.
- Wear safety goggles.
- Tuck in loose clothing and roll back sleeves.
- Wear apron to protect clothing.
- Make sure the drill bit is securely in chuck.
- Clamp workpiece in suitable work vice.
What kind of machine is a pillar drill?
You’d be suprised how many people don’t actually know. By definition: A pillar drill is a free standing machine that uses a motor to rotate a drill bit. This drill bit then can be used to cut holes of different diameters in different types of material. e.g. wood, plastic or metal.
What’s the difference between a pillar and bench drill?
Pillar drills utilize a column and a base plate that attach to the drill, making for a safe and sturdy place to drill wood or other materials. Pillar drills are sometimes confused with bench drills, which are smaller and more portable drills that can be moved to various surfaces.
Can a pillar drill fit on a table?
The pillar drill can be small enough to fit onto a table (bench pillar drill) or as big as a human. Enjoy.Explore.Expand.
What to wear when operating a pillar drill?
When operating a pillar drill, it is important to: Safety goggles, dust masks and gloves must always be worn when operating a pillar drill, as shards of debris can fly from the surface, potentially causing harm.
How do we use a pillar drill?
How to Use a Pillar Drill Safely Read the entire instruction manual, and make sure you understand all the instructions. Familiarize yourself with the machine before you actually use it. Ensure the material on which you are using the pillar drill is suited for the machine. Note the position of the emergency stop button before you begin your job.
What are the parts of a pillar drill?
– Base. The base is is used to support and stabilize the column of the pillar drill. – Table. The table supports the the working material object and can be adjusted to accommodate the size of the workpiece. – Column. – Spindle.
How is a pillar drill used?
A pillar or column drill is used to manually drill holes in metal panels, blocks, boards and woods. The bench drill is a standard tool to be found in every industrial operation. It is used for quick, small-scale processing jobs.
What is pillar type drilling machine?
Pillar type drilling machine is a tool that is used for drilling precisely situated holes or gaps to an exceptionally exact profundity. It’s such a beneficial expansion to the home workshop and you will end up bringing different varieties of employments to this amazingly correct, simple to use stationary drill.