Millwright Level 1 Practice Exam

What should you do as the drill breaks through the workpiece while using a sensitive drill press?

1. Increase the pressure

2. Stop the drill immediately

3. Ease up on the pressure

4. Switch drill speed

The correct answer is: Ease up on the pressure

When a drill breaks through a workpiece on a sensitive drill press, the correct action is to ease up on the pressure. This practice helps to prevent the drill bit from binding or grabbing unexpectedly, which can lead to the drill becoming dislodged or causing damage to the workpiece or equipment. When the drill penetrates through the material, the resistance suddenly decreases, and if pressure is maintained, it could lead to an uncontrolled reaction. Easing up on the pressure allows the drill to transition smoothly from cutting through the material to being free of it, ensuring greater control and safety during operation. This action helps to minimize the risk of damaging the drill bit or workpiece while also enhancing user safety. It’s important to note that other actions, such as increasing pressure, stopping the drill immediately, or switching drill speed, can result in adverse outcomes. Increasing pressure can lead to a sudden grab, causing the drill and workpiece to be forcibly disengaged. Stopping the drill immediately may create a situation where the bit could break or become stuck. Switching drill speed may not address the immediate need for careful handling as the drill exits the material, and can potentially confuse the operation process.