Reaming is a precision cutting process used to slightly enlarge an existing hole while significantly improving the accuracy of its diameter and the surface finish of its walls. The tool used for this operation is called a reamer. Unlike drilling or boring, reaming removes only a small amount of material and is considered a finishing operation. Typically, the reamer operates at half the spindle speed (RPM) used during drilling to ensure better control and surface quality(“What Is Reaming & How To Ream A Hole – WayKen,” 2022).
Moreso, it is a finishing process that uses a multi-edged rotary cutting tool known as a reamer to slightly enlarge and refine the surface of pre-drilled holes. The cutting edges of the reamer remove a thin layer of material, enhancing both the dimensional accuracy and surface finish of the hole. This process is essential in precision engineering where tight tolerances and high-quality finishes are required(Reaming, n.d.).
In drilling, a successful reaming process can make all the difference in a project’s long-term stability and cost-effectiveness. What’s one key factor you’ve found helps in ensuring a smooth and accurate reaming operation?
Reference:
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Reaming: How It Works, Applications, Advantages, and Disadvantages. (n.d.). Retrieved September 24, 2025, from https://www.xometry.com/resources/machining/what-is-reaming-in-manufacturing/
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What is Reaming & How To Ream A Hole—WayKen. (2022, November 25). Rapid Prototype Manufacturing in China – WayKen. https://waykenrm.com/blogs/what-is-reaming/
