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Baileigh DP-1250VS-HS High-Speed Variable Speed Drill Press

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Baileigh DP-1250VS-HS

The Baileigh DP-1250VS-HS is a professional-grade high-speed drill press that revolutionizes metalworking with thermal friction drilling capabilities, allowing you to create incredibly strong threaded connections in thin materials without the need for welded nuts or inserts.

Are you tired of struggling with spinning rivet nuts and weak threaded connections in thin sheet metal? The DP-1250VS-HS changes everything. This isn't just another drill press – it's your gateway to thermal friction drilling, a cutting-edge process that literally melts through metal to create bushings with three times the original material thickness. That means you can create exceptionally strong, reliable threaded connections even in materials as thin as 1mm.

Built on Baileigh's proven DP-1250VS platform, this high-speed version delivers variable speeds from 85 rpm all the way up to an impressive 4000 rpm. That upper range is what makes thermal friction drilling possible – and it opens up possibilities you've never had before. Whether you're fabricating automotive components, HVAC ductwork, furniture frames, or general metalwork, this machine tackles it all with precision and power.

The heavy-duty cast iron construction means this drill press won't flex or vibrate during operation, even when you're pushing it to maximum capacity drilling 38mm (1.5") holes through mild steel. The 115mm (4.5") wide column provides exceptional rigidity, whilst the integrated coolant system keeps your tooling running cooler and lasting longer. Plus, with the Delta® inverter control system, you get infinitely variable speed adjustment – no more settling for fixed pulley speeds that aren't quite right for your application.

A overview image showing the full machine, the Baileigh DP-1250VS-HS

Product Video

Applications

  • Thermal Friction Drilling (Flow Drilling): Create strong threaded bushings in thin sheet metal, tubes, and pipes for automotive chassis, bicycle frames, and structural components
  • HVAC Fabrication: Produce secure connection points in thin-walled ductwork and heat exchangers without compromising material integrity
  • Furniture Manufacturing: Achieve clean, aesthetically pleasing fastening points in metal furniture frames without visible welds or bolts
  • Precision Drilling Operations: Handle standard drilling tasks from 1mm to 38mm capacity in steel, stainless steel, aluminum, brass, and copper
  • Auto-Reversing Tapping: Quickly and accurately tap threads up to 19mm (0.75") in mild steel with the built-in reversing function
  • Heavy-Duty Metalworking: Tackle demanding production environments where reliability and repeatability are non-negotiable

Key Features & Benefits

  • Variable High-Speed Performance (85-4000 RPM): The extended speed range isn't just impressive on paper – it's what enables thermal friction drilling. Lower speeds give you control for standard operations, whilst the high-speed capability opens up entirely new fabrication possibilities.
  • Delta® Inverter Drive System: Unlike belt-driven drill presses with fixed speeds, you can dial in the exact RPM you need for each material and operation. This precision extends tool life, improves finish quality, and gives you consistent results every time.
  • Heavy-Duty Cast Iron Construction with 115mm Column: Zero flex means zero compromises. When you're drilling at maximum capacity or running high-speed operations, this machine stays rock-solid, delivering accuracy you can rely on.
  • Integrated Coolant System with 0.125kW Pump: Your cutting tools stay cooler, last longer, and perform better. The coolant sprays directly at the cutting point behind a safety guard, dramatically extending the life of expensive drill bits and friction drilling tools.
  • Auto-Reversing Tapping Function (19mm Capacity): Tap threads faster and more consistently without manually reversing the spindle. This feature alone saves hours on production runs and virtually eliminates broken taps.
  • Generous 530mm (20.8") Swing Capacity: ou can handle larger workpieces without struggling to manoeuvre them around the column. This extra capacity means fewer limitations on what you can fabricate.
  • Digital RPM Readout with Precision Control: No more guessing at spindle speed. You can verify and replicate exact settings for each operation, ensuring consistent quality across production runs.
  • MT4 Morse Taper Spindle: This heavy-duty taper handles serious torque without slippage, and it's compatible with a vast range of professional tooling you may already own.

What's in the Box

  • Baileigh DP-1250VS-HS high-speed drill press (fully assembled on pallet)
  • Operator's manual and setup documentation

Specifications

Power Requirements 220V, Single Phase
Motor Power 1.5 kW (2 HP)
Coolant Motor 0.125 kW

Frequently Asked Questions

What is thermal friction drilling, and why do I need the highspeed capability?

Thermal friction drilling (also called flow drilling) is a revolutionary process where a specially designed bit spins at over 3000 RPM, generating friction heat that melts through the material rather than cutting it. This creates a bushing with walls three times thicker than the original material – perfect for creating strong threaded connections in thin metals. The DP-1250VS-HS's ability to reach 4000 RPM makes this process possible, whilst the standard DP-1250VS tops out at 2000 RPM.

Can I use this for regular drilling operations, or is it only for thermal friction drilling?

Absolutely! This machine excels at standard drilling, tapping, and metalworking operations. The variable speed range from 85-4000 RPM means you can handle everything from large-diameter holes at slower speeds to small precision work and thermal friction drilling at higher speeds. Think of it as a premium drill press that also opens up new capabilities.

What materials can I work with?

The DP-1250VS-HS handles virtually all metals including mild steel, stainless steel, aluminium, brass, copper, and other alloys. For thermal friction drilling specifically, best results are achieved with materials ranging from 1mm to about 6mm thickness. Standard drilling capacity is 38mm (1.5") in mild steel.

Do I need special tooling for thermal friction drilling?

Yes, thermal friction drilling requires specific carbide friction drill bits (often called Flowdrill or Form drill bits). These are separate purchases but widely available. Many users start with standard operations and add thermal friction drilling capabilities as their needs evolve.

Is this machine suitable for production environments?

Definitely. The heavy-duty construction, integrated coolant system, and auto-reversing tapping function are specifically designed for production use. The inverter-driven system provides consistent performance, and the digital readout ensures repeatable results. Baileigh backs it with a 1-year parts warranty and lifetime technical support, giving you peace of mind for your investment.