Millwright Level 1 Practice Exam

What is the primary use of a reamer?

1. Drilling large holes

2. Producing smooth, accurate holes

3. Turning external surfaces

4. Cutting threads

The correct answer is: Producing smooth, accurate holes

The primary use of a reamer is to produce smooth, accurate holes. Reamers are specifically designed to finish holes that have been previously drilled, ensuring they meet precise diameter specifications and surface finishes. This process enhances the dimensional accuracy and provides a finer finish than what standard drilling can achieve. Reamers are utilized in machining operations where the quality of the hole is critical, such as in fitting parts together with close tolerances or when preparing holes for bolts or other fasteners that require a smooth surface for proper engagement. The cutting edges on a reamer remove only a small amount of material to refine the hole's dimensions and improve its surface finish, making them particularly valuable in precision engineering. In contrast, the other options pertain to different machining processes. For example, drilling large holes refers to the primary function of drill bits, while turning external surfaces relates to the use of lathes. Cutting threads is typically done with taps or dies, not reamers. Each of these tools serves distinct purposes in machining tasks.