Reamer Terminology

Machine Chucking Reamer - Used primarily in machines such as turret lathes, transfer lines, numerical control, etc. for production reaming.

Hand Reamer - Used primarily by hand utilizing wrench and driven by the square. Excellent for tool and die work, machine and repair shop. May be machine driven in some cases.

Shank - The part of the reamer which is held and driven.

Neck - The section of reduced diameter between the body and the shank.

Diameter - The diameter over the body of the reamer measured at the point.

Chamfer - The leading cutting edge of the reamer, usually 45º.

Clearance - The relief on the outside diameter of the reamer, usually running to a theoretically sharp edge or cylindrical margin as the material to be reamed dictates.

Flutes - Helical or straight grooves cut or formed in the body of the reamer to permit chip flow and form lands for proper clearance.

Overall Length - The length from the extreme end of the shank to the extreme end of the body section. Does not include conical point when used as in structural reamers.