Thermal Drilling and Rigid Tapping Square Tube with the FlexCNC C-Series

[@NicosM51]

Cutting ? What is that for ?

[@FlexMachineTools]

It's just a 1018 mild steel square tube. We run this as part of our training program on the FlexCNC, so the piece itself does not have a purpose other than to act as a test piece, but the thermal drilling is especially useful for thin materials because the displaced material forms a collar around the hole, adding strength to the threads. This eliminates the need for inserts or extra hardware, creating a more durable connection.