Darex (www.darex.com) — the USA-based manufacturer of drill-sharpening equipment that is represented in the UK by sole agent 1st Machine Tool Accessories Ltd, Salisbury (www.1mta.com) — has released an automatic four-axis machine that is both faster and more accurate than the previous version. Designated XPS-16+, it can process two-flute high-speed steel, cobalt, carbide and coated bits from 3 to 16mm in diameter; it can also create any point angle from 90 to 150deg as standard.

Moreover, the unit can sharpen split-point geometries and complex four-facet point drills — and automatically hone carbide drills to ensure that they achieve the highest levels of cutting precision. Meanwhile, the CNC system allows users to customise point styles and save the program for future use.

Further improvements over the previous model include more stored drill files; users can now save up to 100 geometries. The latest machine also allows users to choose between no-split, X-split, R-split and the new split-only option. Finally, the start of the grind position has been revised to ensure more-efficient abrasive use for longer wheel life.