What Is a Rotary Tool?
Rotary tools are power tools that use small spindles rotating in one plane against the direction of the tool’s motor to generate power for cutting, grinding, polishing, sanding, or cleaning. The tool is named for its rotor-shaped scroll saw body that resembles a gear wheel. The term “rotary tool” refers to heavy-duty power tools that do not need an external spindle attachment. These tools are the most common type used in tool and die shops. They are reconditioned and used in manufacturing, construction, maintenance, agriculture, transportation, and other industries.
What Is a Rotary Tool Used For?
Rotary tool kits have an electric motor driving the spindle(s) through a sharpening gearbox or spur gear assembly. Most rotary tools also feature a gear-driven handpiece or chuck mounted on the spindle shaft. Rotary tools often have circular saw blades and powerful multipurpose motors that provide high speeds along with speed control. And very high power output for high-speed cutting and impact driver for grinding operations.
Rotary tools are well-balanced, and they are often associated with the use of drill bits. That rotates against the direction of the reciprocating motor to produce machine-generated pressure for drilling holes. Many reinforced rotary instruments are combined with various screwdrivers. Typically with an adjustable “Drill Bit Attachment” or “Drill Bit Holder.” The ability to hold several different types of drill bits provides versatility for drilling holes in various materials.
The spinning surface of a tool is called the “rotor.” The rotor is used for securing work to be cut or ground, either horizontally or vertically. The construction of the tool allows the tool to be used free-hand, which is especially important for grinding and polishing operations. For example, a center punch is attached to the spindle to be turned for punching through thin materials. Tips and accessorized attachments may clamp to the spindle. But tool bodies may also securely hold them in place using a collet or other designs. These accessories include:
Brand | Image | Model | Title | Price | Prime | Buy |
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Foredom | ![]() | K.2230 | Foredom 2230, SR motor, Jewelers Kit by Foredom | Prime | Buy Now | |
WEN | ![]() | 2305 | WEN 2305 Rotary Tool Kit with Flex Shaft | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
Dremel | ![]() | 8220-1/28 | Dremel 8220-1/28 12-Volt Max Cordless Rotary Tool Kit- Engraver, Sander, and Polisher- Perfect for Cutting, Wood Carving, Engraving, Polishing, and Detail Sanding- 1 Attachment & 28 Accessories - 2308361 | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
DEWALT | ![]() | DW660 | DEWALT Rotary Saw, 1/8-Inch and 1/4-Inch Collets, 5-Amp (DW660), Yellow | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
Dremel | ![]() | 3000-2/28 | Dremel 3000-2/28 Variable Speed Rotary Tool Kit- 1 Attachments & 28 Accessories- Grinder, Sander, Polisher, Router, and Engraver- Perfect for Routing, Metal Cutting, Wood Carving, and Polishing | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
GOXAWEE | ![]() | G4007 | GOXAWEE Rotary Tool Kit with MultiPro Keyless Chuck and Flex Shaft - 140pcs Accessories Variable Speed Electric Drill Set for Handmade Crafting Projects and DIY Creations | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
Hi-Spec | ![]() | DT30305-US | Hi-Spec 160W Corded Rotary Power Tool Kit & Accessories for DIY Repairs, Hobbies & Craftwork. Precision & Fine Drilling Cutting, Trimming, Grinding & Sanding | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
Milwaukee | ![]() | 2460-20 | Cordless Rotary Tool, 12.0V | Prime | Buy Now |
A “burs” attachment is very similar in appearance and function to a rotating file. A rotating burr uses uncut diamonds or cubic boron nitride (CBN) as an abrasive surface for grinding and polishing. Moreover, it is attached to a spindle-mounted chuck utilizing a collet, which grips hard tips with no play.
Types of Rotary Tools:
Rotary tools typically come in two types: drill/drivers and rotary sanders.
Drill/Driver Rotary Tools: These are common in construction projects where you need to change bits quickly during a drilling or driving process with great speed and torque. Rotary drill/drivers are typically large, heavy units used in the field to drill holes in concrete, brick, or block. Some units can be mounted on a grinder to grind floors or remove chunks of concrete. These powerful tools are often used with carbide-tipped masonry bits for drilling holes in brick, block, and stone. Drill/driver rotary tools may also be called “rotary hammer drills,” “hammer drills,” “impact drivers,” or “impact drivers.”
Rotary Sanders: These are popular with artisans and professionals because they cut the need to change sanding pad sets when switching between large surfaces and smaller detailed areas. Rotary sanders are used for sanding wood, metal, fiberglass, and plastics. The thick pads work well for leveling large areas. In contrast, the thin strips are best for working in tight spaces and detail sanding. Rotary sanders often feature “variable speed,” allowing the user to adjust the rpm of the spindle so that it matches the speed needed for a particular task. Some units also feature dust collection systems making them popular with professionals and enthusiasts who work with wood and other materials that produce dust during sanding operations.
Cordless Rotary Tools: Cordless rotary tools are a recent innovation that has become a popular alternative to corded power tools. Today, the batteries in these tools have been improved from those of early versions. They can now hold a charge for extended periods and produce more torque to make them as effective as their corded counterparts. Besides, manufacturers now offer a wide variety of spindle sizes and types. Some designs incorporate many spindles with different attachments, allowing the user to switch between them without removing the chuck or changing accessories.
In recent years, cordless rotary tools have been used for various applications, from woodworking to metalworking. These tools’ low cost and versatility make them especially attractive to hobbyists and craftspeople who work with wood, metal, and other non-porous materials that accept finish coats or other surface treatments.
Rotary tools have a gearbox that transfers the power from the motor through a small spindle to a handpiece. The handpiece has a chuck mounted on the spindle to accept drill bits. Chucks are typically secured using either a keyed or keyless system.
What Is the Difference Between a Drill and a Rotary Tool?
There are several differences between rotary tools and drills, but the main difference is that a drill is used to drill holes while a rotary tool uses its spinning surface to cut and grind. However, drills can’t be used for cutting and grinding.
There are different types of chucks (or collets) available in the market. Some keyless chucks use an eccentric mechanism that requires you to rotate your handpiece with your fingers while tightening/loosening it onto the spindle to remove or insert bits/tips.
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Conclusion:
Rotary tools are very well-balanced and can be used for various applications from drilling, cutting, grinding, polishing, etc.
The rapid speed of a rotary tool allows rapid cutting and polishing to be performed. This easy use makes the machine well suited for use by many people, including manufacture house workers and do-it-yourself enthusiasts.
Therefore, the rotary tool is a well-designed power tool to have in your workshop or garage.