Knurls and Knurling Tools
These lines are created by a manufacturing finishing process known as knurling. Knurling helps to create any combination of vertical, horizontal, or crisscrossing lines on the surface of a workpiece. Knurling can be done either using a machine like a lathe or by hand using the right tools.
How does knurling work?
Knurling tools have a “V-shaped” tooth. It’s created by displacing the material on the workpiece. When the knurling tool is pressed against the surface of the rotating workpiece, it creates the required pattern.
Knurling Tools Patterns & Application
- Straight – horizontal or vertical lines, Diagonal lines, and Diamond patterns
Knurling has a huge range of daily applications and is primarily used for:
- Decorative purposes
- Serration surfaces that are keyed or locked together in unit assemblies
- To improve the grip of hand tools
- Usage in Automotive Industry, Aerospace Industry, and Mechanical Labs.
- In making Barbell Bars, Control Knobs, and Mechanical Pencils.
Consumers love having a textured finish rather than a smooth finish. This is one of the main reasons why knurling is used on a product, to enhance its aesthetics. It creates an attractive pattern on the surface of the workpiece.
Besides aesthetics, knurling is also used for other practical purposes like improved grip. Hand tools like hammers, wrenches often have a knurled handle to improve stability and performance while using it. Here’s an example. Consider a hammer with a smooth handle. The smooth surface is prone to slipping easily, leading to accidents. On the other hand, consider a hammer with a textured handle. The knurled handle protects against slippage, helping users have a steady grip.
Hand Vs Machine Knurling
Knurling can be done either by machine or hand. Hand knurling uses a rolling roll that creates the desired pattern on the workpiece. Machine knurling uses a lathe to cut the desired pattern on the workpiece.
Hand knurling is the most basic knurling process and doesn’t require large machines. It can be completed with a simple roller tool. Hand knurling creates the patterns primarily uses pressure. When the worker runs the knurling tool across the surface of the workpiece, it creates a textural indention on the object. Machine knurling, on the other hand, creates the texture by chipping away a small portion of the material of the workpiece.
Check out the knurling tools from Alok Tools:
Quick Acting Knurling Tool
This is a knurling tool that is easy to set up. It minimizes the pressure on the lathe, crossfeed, or center screw. The depth of the knurling impression can be set based on the production work. It creates medium diamond-patterned knurls in the following size:
¾” x 3/8” x ¼”
Besides our quick-acting knurling tool, we also offer knurling tool holders and spare knurls for knurling tool holders.
If you require more info on our range of knurling tools or need help finding the right set of knurling tools, drop in an email to sales@utl.co.ke, and our team will get back to you with the required information.