Arbors

About Arbors

Arbors are precision-engineered components that provide the essential connection between drilling equipment and cutting tools. Also known as drill chuck arbors or spindle arbors, these machined adapters allow drill chucks to be securely mounted onto machine spindles, pillar drills, and magnetic drilling machines. Available in various configurations including Morse taper and threaded connections, arbors ensure accurate alignment and secure tool holding during drilling operations. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks quality arbors from trusted manufacturers including Rohm and Rotabroach, designed to meet the demands of professional tradespeople and serious DIY enthusiasts.

Whether you're working with standard workshop drilling equipment or specialised magnetic drills with annular cutters, selecting the correct arbor specification is fundamental to achieving professional results. Quality arbors are manufactured from high-grade steel and precisely ground to exacting tolerances, ensuring minimal run-out and maximum concentricity during operation. From full-sized industrial drill chuck arbors to compact adapters for mini cutters, the right arbor selection directly impacts drilling accuracy, tool life, and workplace safety.

Applications

Arbors are essential components used across various trades and industries:

• Engineers and Machinists: Mounting drill chucks on pillar drills, lathes, and milling machines in workshop and manufacturing environments
• Fabricators and Metalworkers: Connecting drill chucks and annular cutters to magnetic drilling machines for structural steelwork
• Maintenance Fitters: Equipment repair and precision drilling in industrial facilities
• Steel Erectors: Using magnetic drills with various cutter types on construction sites
• Tool Room Technicians: Configuring and maintaining drilling equipment in production settings
• Pipeline Installers: Drilling precise holes in metal ducting, pipework, and pressure vessels
• Agricultural Engineers: Repair and fabrication work on farm machinery
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home workshop owners with pillar drills requiring proper tooling setup

Choosing The Right Arbors

Selecting the correct arbor requires careful consideration of several key factors:

Machine Spindle Type: Identify your equipment's spindle connection, whether Morse taper (MT1, MT2, MT3, etc.) or threaded spindle. Check your machine manual or measure the existing arbor to determine the correct specification.

Chuck Connection: Ensure the arbor matches your drill chuck's mounting system, whether JT (Jacobs Taper) or threaded connection. The arbor must be compatible with both the machine spindle and chuck fitting.

Application Requirements: Consider whether you need a standard drill chuck arbor for general drilling or specialised arbors for mini cutters and annular cutting systems used with magnetic drills.

Quality and Precision: Professional-grade arbors from manufacturers like Rohm offer superior precision machining with minimal run-out, essential for accurate work. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks arbors ground to tight tolerances for professional applications.

Length and Clearance: Ensure adequate clearance for your intended applications without excessive overhang that could cause vibration during operation.

Safety Information

Proper Installation: Always ensure Morse taper arbors are fully seated with the tang properly located. Clean both the arbor taper and spindle socket thoroughly before installation to prevent ejection during operation.

Regular Inspection: Check arbors for wear, damage, or burring that could affect grip or cause run-out. Replace damaged arbors immediately as they compromise safety and work quality.

Correct Removal: Use a proper arbor drift tool for removal—never hammer directly on an arbor, as this can damage both the arbor and machine spindle.

PPE Requirements: Always wear safety glasses when operating drilling equipment, and secure loose clothing and long hair to prevent entanglement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a Morse taper and a threaded arbor?

A Morse taper arbor uses a precisely ground tapered shank that wedges into a matching socket by friction, common on pillar drills and industrial equipment. Threaded arbors screw into a threaded spindle and are often found on magnetic drilling machines. Each system requires the correct matching arbor type for safe operation.

How do I identify which arbor size I need?

Check your machine's specification plate or manual for the spindle taper size (MT1, MT2, MT3, etc.) or thread specification. If unavailable, measure your existing arbor or consult the equipment manufacturer. Using incorrect sizing is dangerous and won't hold securely during operation.

Why is my drill chuck wobbling with a new arbor?

Wobble or run-out typically results from dirt on mating surfaces, incorrect taper size, worn machine spindle, or damaged chuck. Thoroughly clean the arbor taper and spindle socket, checking for burrs or damage. If problems persist, the machine spindle or chuck may require professional assessment.