Are Drill Bushes also used as Location Bushes?

Drill bushes are primarily designed to guide drill bits

Yes, drill bushes can also be used as location bushes in certain applications. Bushes when used for location purposes, are used in conjunction with a location pin. When used together, the two components form a very precise system for locating and aligning workpieces or components during machining, assembly, or inspection processes.

Drill bushes are primarily designed to guide drill bits. The very properties that make them excel at drill alignment, make them suitable for use as location bushes as well. The cylindrical shape, accurate tolerances, chamfered entry point and concentricity, ensure accurate alignment and positioning of workpieces within a jig or fixture.

When using drill bushes as location bushes, the following is advised:

Size and fit OD

Ensure the outer diameter of the drill bushes tolerance and the corresponding hole fit are machined to press fit. This will ensure proper alignment and stability.

Size and fit ID

The inside diameter of most standard drill bushes is machined to drill limits F7. The corresponding alignment pin, dowel pin or location pin must be machined to the desired tolerance required to achieve the essential alignment accuracy. tolerance required to achieve the essential alignment accuracy.

Material selection

Depending on the specific requirements of your application, you may need to choose a drill bush made of a material that is suitable for both guiding the cutting tool and providing the necessary precision for location purposes. Hardened steel is used for drill bushes due to its durability and accuracy. Bushes manufactured from bearing steel provide greater resistance to wear.

Using drill bushes as location bushes, leverages their precise dimensions, tolerances and cylindricity to establish consistent and repeatable positioning of workpieces in jigs or fixtures.