Covington Parts - Drill Tubes

Item Name:

Covington Parts - Drill Tubes

SKU:

COVRDT603

Description:

Drill tubes are hollow diamond core drill bits used with a gem drill to cut clean, round holes through glass. They are constructed as a tubular cutting head designed to remove a core as it drills, which helps reduce cracking compared to forcing a solid bit through the material. In lampworking, drill tubes are commonly used after annealing to add stringing holes for pendants and beads, to open up holes in thicker sculptural components, or to create precise openings for cold connections and hardware.

How it is used:

Use the drill tube in a compatible gem drill and run it with water as a lubricant and coolant. Start the hole gently with light pressure to establish a seat, then let the diamond edge do the work while keeping the glass supported. Periodically lift to flush slurry and prevent heat buildup, and finish the breakthrough carefully to avoid chipping on the exit side.