Knurling
Knurling is a mechanical process that creates a rough textured pattern on a surface by pressing a textured tool against a rotating surface.
Knurling provides a way to create grips without additional components. Shapes appropriate for knurling are primarily cylindrical surfaces. Usually diamond or parallel line patterns and used.
A few examples of uses for knurling include tool handles, decorative stripes, grips for threaded adjusting devices and thumb screws. Knurling is usually done on ductile metals. The tooling involved is typically a stock item.
Cost reduction options for knurling are primarily reduction of the diameter and length of the knurled surface.
Knurling Design Considerations
- Avoid very hard materials.
- Specify the desired pattern - typically straight or diamond.
- Specify the pattern density (e.g. fine or coarse).
- Indicate the area to be knurled.
- If needed specify the dimensional tolerance of the knurled surface.
