What is the primary purpose of reaming?

The primary purpose of reaming is to finish a hole with precision and accuracy. Reaming is a machining process that follows drilling and is specifically used to achieve tighter tolerances and improved surface finish on a pre-drilled hole. The reaming tool, known as a reamer, removes a small amount of material, which enhances the size and surface characteristics of the hole, ensuring it meets specific dimensional requirements.

In the context of aerospace applications, where precision is critical for components that must fit together flawlessly and bear loads under various conditions, reaming plays an essential role in maintaining strict tolerances and ensuring the integrity and performance of assembled parts. The process also serves to correct any minor inaccuracies from the initial drilling process, further contributing to the reliability and durability of the end product.

While enlarging a hole might seem relevant, reaming is generally not intended for significant enlargement but rather for refining the size and quality of an already drilled hole. Therefore, focusing on finishing with precision makes this approach crucial in aerospace manufacturing.