Frequently Asked Questions

Alignment and Accuracy: My machine is not as accurate as when it was new, why is this happening?

If you have noticed a decrease in accuracy, attaching a vacuum system will help your machine stay accurate far longer than would be possible without it. Although Darex machines are made of the most durable material possible, it is possible to wear it out. First clean out your machine using compressed air. If this does not solve your problem then contact Darex customer service to explore further options.

Because the products are designed with different uses in mind the operations of the machines are different to accomplish different goals.

Unscrew the chuck knob, opening the chuck jaws just far enough to remove the drill bit from the chuck. Using the palm of your hand, lightly push down on the top of the jaws until they all bottom out in the chuck jaw retainer slots. The jaws will travel and secure the drill bit evenly now. The chuck is ready to use. It may be necessary to repeat these steps each time you sharpen a drill bit.

On the V290 the height of the wheel is critical to achieve correct drill geometry, each machine is different so we set the height using lasers. When a new motor is installed the height must be reset using these lasers to ensure accuracy, so you must send it back for us do this.

Remove the drill and look inside the chuck to make sure that the chuck jaws are seated properly. If not then Unscrew the chuck knob, opening the chuck jaws just far enough to remove the drill bit from the chuck. Using the palm of your hand, lightly push down on the top of the jaws until they all bottom out in the chuck jaw retainer slots. The jaws will travel and secure the drill bit evenly now. The chuck is ready to use. It may be necessary to repeat these steps each time you sharpen a drill bit. Clean out your chuck by spraying out the inside with compressed air, it is necessary to do this periodically as grit may build up inside the chuck.

Drill Doctor, Work Sharp, & Darex Sharpeners sold in the United States and Canada are designed and manufactured for 115V 60 Hz power supplies only. We assemble and ship product for a specific region’s power needs to many distributors around the world. We want to make sure you have the correct product to safely and effectively sharpen your tools.

Using a 115V machine in a location that uses 230V power sources not only voids your warranty, but also increases the chance of failure and reduces the life and performance of your tool. We want you to purchase the proper tool so you can experience the optimal performance and life of our tools.

 

Why is this important?

 

First some clarification:

  • A Transformer reduces or increases AC voltage
  • A Converter converts current from AC to DC
  • An Inverter converts current from DC to AC

Using a simple plug adapter and no other transformation or conversion from 230v to 115v leaves the unit running on twice the rated voltage—the motor runs very hot, very fast and for a very short time before it destroys itself. A plug adapter allows the US-plug to fit into your receptacle, but doesn’t impact the power provided to the unit.

Our products do not have a ‘smart cable’ like you would find on a laptop that has a built in power supply to take input current/voltage and transform it to lower voltage. That Power Supply converts from AC to DC current at the low voltage (1-24vDC) input needed for a laptop battery or similar device.

A transformer (not a complete power supply), plugged into single phase 230v, can drop the voltage to the 115v range, but doesn’t account for the difference from US frequency at 60 Hz and Internationally at 50 Hz and may not regulate the voltage or provide sufficient amperage well depending on the quality of the device. Running on 50 Hz puts a greater strain on the motor, so while the correct voltage may be supplied to the unit, the frequency isn’t correct to get full performance (reduced power = lower efficiency = extra heat = destroyed unit). The voltage may also not be precise, out of a transformer and the 115v motors are designed to run in a specific range. High or low voltage will likely cause failures.

Forgive the long winded explanation but we want you to have a proper functioning tool that you are satisfied with now and long into the future.

The Darex V290 is not designed to sharpen cobalt drills or any thick webbed drills so the machine will not correctly sharpen these types of drills no matter what setting it is on. If you are still having problems please contact Darex customer service for help.

First adjust the depth of the point split by moving the lever under the splitting port to compensate for your problem. If the lever on your machine has come loose you will need to re-set the lever. To do this first align and sharpen a drill and leave it in the chuck, next remove the red ring on the top of the point split port. Now split your drill, if the drill is over split then you will need to put your fingers into the point split port (make sure the machine is unplugged) and turn the nut inside of the port to the left counter clockwise. If your drill is under split then you will turn the nut inside the splitting port to the right clockwise. After you have made a small adjustment re align and sharpen your drill, then re-split the drill. If the split is still incorrect continue to make small adjustments to the nut until your drill is split correctly. Once you have the nut set in the correct position move the lever under the point split port to the center and replace the red ring. If you are experiencing problems with this process please contact Darex customer service for assistance. If your machine was purchased before 2004 you may have a bent base casting, in this case contact Darex customer service for a replacement.

This problem is due to the design of the machine, your high speed steel drills will still function properly, however it is not recommend to sharpen cobalt or any thick webbed drills on the Darex V290 because of this issue.

Use the alignment paddle to adjust the amount of relief. Moving the paddle to the plus side will increase the amount of relief, moving it to the minus side will decrease relief. Different drills may require different settings to achieve the same relief, some experimentation might be required to find the correct settings for your drill. It is also important to remember that as you sharpen a drill the web size changes so it may be necessary to adjust the settings to compensate for this.

Make small adjustments on your relief settings, and check the effect on your drill. If the problem persists, contact Darex customer service for advice.

Most Darex orders are shipped using UPS ground service. If you would like change this be sure to mention your desired changes when ordering.

You can order a new instruction manual for your V290 by calling 1800-547-0222 the cost is $10, or you can download and print out a new one from our website for free.

Please contact Darex Corporation, we will fix or replace damage caused by shipping as soon as possible.

Contact UPS for an inspection. The UPS representitive will inform you about the options available for making a claim.

Please contact Darex customer service as soon as possible and we will correct any mistakes we have made on your order.

Attachment Problems: I can’t get correct relief using the brad point attachment what's wrong?
If you are having problems with relief using the brad point attachment make sure to keep the following in mind: When adjusting the relief using the brad point attachment you must adjust it to the opposite direction from what is indicated. For example if you want to increase the amount of relief then adjust it to the negative side, if you want to decrease the amount of relief then move the setting to the plus side.
Increase the angle of your split and re-sharpen the drill, be sure to make small adjustments when doing this. If the problem persists contact Darex for more advice.
There are several reasons this could be happening: Check to make sure that your drill is not bent; even the smallest bend will produce oversized holes. Next check to make sure that your tool holder is holding the drill tight. If you are still having problems next check to make sure that your drill is split correctly, an over split drill can cause oversized holes. Next make sure that you have correct relief on the drill, if not then make small adjustments to your relief setting until you get properly sized holes. If none of these solutions are working then re-grind your drill making sure that you use even pressure when sharpening both sides of the drill because even a slight difference in the material takeoff could cause oversized holes.

Drill Doctor, Work Sharp, & Darex Sharpeners sold in the United States and Canada are designed and manufactured for 115V 60 Hz power supplies only. We assemble and ship product for a specific region’s power needs to many distributors around the world. We want to make sure you have the correct product to safely and effectively sharpen your tools.

Using a 115V machine in a location that uses 230V power sources not only voids your warranty, but also increases the chance of failure and reduces the life and performance of your tool. We want you to purchase the proper tool so you can experience the optimal performance and life of our tools.

 

Why is this important?

 

First some clarification:

  • A Transformer reduces or increases AC voltage
  • A Converter converts current from AC to DC
  • An Inverter converts current from DC to AC

Using a simple plug adapter and no other transformation or conversion from 230v to 115v leaves the unit running on twice the rated voltage—the motor runs very hot, very fast and for a very short time before it destroys itself. A plug adapter allows the US-plug to fit into your receptacle, but doesn’t impact the power provided to the unit.

Our products do not have a ‘smart cable’ like you would find on a laptop that has a built in power supply to take input current/voltage and transform it to lower voltage. That Power Supply converts from AC to DC current at the low voltage (1-24vDC) input needed for a laptop battery or similar device.

A transformer (not a complete power supply), plugged into single phase 230v, can drop the voltage to the 115v range, but doesn’t account for the difference from US frequency at 60 Hz and Internationally at 50 Hz and may not regulate the voltage or provide sufficient amperage well depending on the quality of the device. Running on 50 Hz puts a greater strain on the motor, so while the correct voltage may be supplied to the unit, the frequency isn’t correct to get full performance (reduced power = lower efficiency = extra heat = destroyed unit). The voltage may also not be precise, out of a transformer and the 115v motors are designed to run in a specific range. High or low voltage will likely cause failures.

Forgive the long winded explanation but we want you to have a proper functioning tool that you are satisfied with now and long into the future.

First make sure that the machine is plugged into an outlet with power. Next check to make sure that the E-stop button is released, if not then release it. If you are having trouble releasing the E-stop it may be because the E-stop nut is loose and in the wrong position.
First make sure the machine is plugged into a 115v outlet with power. If your machine is plugged in correctly and still not turning on check the internal wire connections to make sure they are working. If there is still a problem then contact Darex customer service as soon as possible.
The 118° and the 135° laser etched numbers on the Alignment Port and the Split Point Port are independent settings of each other and of the actual Point Angle setting. These numbers represent a point of reference. You can adjust these ports in any setting that will produce acceptable drill geometry.
Increase the amount of relief and re-sharpen the drill. Make sure to make small adjustments. Verify your MTO is calibrated and that you are not grinding excessive amounts of material from the end of the drill. Clean or change your grinding wheel. If you are still having problems please contact Darex customer service.
You can order a new instruction manual for your XT by calling 1800-547-0222 at minimal cost, or you can download and print out a new one from our website for free go to www.darex.com and click on Support..
If your machine was purchased prior to 2004 you may have a bent base casting contact Darex customer service to return the machine for an evaluation.
Contact your local UPS office to file a claim, if it is determined that the damaged was caused before shipping then contact Darex customer service to fix this problem.
Alignment and Accuracy: The alignment looks like a Drill Doctor, why doesn't it work like one?
Because the products are designed with different uses in mind, the operations of the machines are different to accomplish different goals

Drill Doctor, Work Sharp, & Darex Sharpeners sold in the United States and Canada are designed and manufactured for 115V 60 Hz power supplies only. We assemble and ship product for a specific region’s power needs to many distributors around the world. We want to make sure you have the correct product to safely and effectively sharpen your tools.

Using a 115V machine in a location that uses 230V power sources not only voids your warranty, but also increases the chance of failure and reduces the life and performance of your tool. We want you to purchase the proper tool so you can experience the optimal performance and life of our tools.

 

Why is this important?

 

First some clarification:

  • A Transformer reduces or increases AC voltage
  • A Converter converts current from AC to DC
  • An Inverter converts current from DC to AC

Using a simple plug adapter and no other transformation or conversion from 230v to 115v leaves the unit running on twice the rated voltage—the motor runs very hot, very fast and for a very short time before it destroys itself. A plug adapter allows the US-plug to fit into your receptacle, but doesn’t impact the power provided to the unit.

Our products do not have a ‘smart cable’ like you would find on a laptop that has a built in power supply to take input current/voltage and transform it to lower voltage. That Power Supply converts from AC to DC current at the low voltage (1-24vDC) input needed for a laptop battery or similar device.

A transformer (not a complete power supply), plugged into single phase 230v, can drop the voltage to the 115v range, but doesn’t account for the difference from US frequency at 60 Hz and Internationally at 50 Hz and may not regulate the voltage or provide sufficient amperage well depending on the quality of the device. Running on 50 Hz puts a greater strain on the motor, so while the correct voltage may be supplied to the unit, the frequency isn’t correct to get full performance (reduced power = lower efficiency = extra heat = destroyed unit). The voltage may also not be precise, out of a transformer and the 115v motors are designed to run in a specific range. High or low voltage will likely cause failures.

Forgive the long winded explanation but we want you to have a proper functioning tool that you are satisfied with now and long into the future.

Yes, we offer a chuck with a modified Jaw that will accommodate a larger shank. Contact Darex for details.
Do not close down the chuck jaws without a drill bit inside. The jaws will ride up unevenly and grip the drill bit non-concentric. Unscrew the chuck knob, opening the chuck jaws just far enough to remove the drill bit from the chuck. Using the palm of your hand, lightly push down on the top of the jaws until they all bottom out in the chuck jaw retainer slots. The jaws will travel and secure the drill bit evenly now. The chuck is ready to use. It may be necessary to repeat these steps each time you sharpen a drill bit.
The Adjustment Material Take Off Button is out of calibration, rotate button counter clockwise to decrease material take off.
Clean your CBN and Diamond wheel every 100 grinds. For details refer to your instruction manual
The drill was not tightend securely in the chuck after alignment. When the drill made contact with the grinding wheel, the drill slipped back away from the wheel. Realign the drill making sure the drill is secure in the chuck.
The chuck knob was not tightened enough after alignment and before grinding. – Grit build up inside the chuck can cause the drill to slip, you will need to clean your chuck. See details in your operation manual. – Wheel is loaded up with grit and needs to be cleaned, See Cleaning instructions in operation manual. – Drill bit shank is larger or slighly larger than body of drill. – Chuck springs/Jaws and or body of chuck are worn and need replaced.
Use the Alignment paddle to change the amount of heel relief desired. Sliding the Alignment paddle toward the Plus sign will increase the heel relief. If you slide the Alignment paddle toward the Minus sign, heel relief will be decreased. Each number represents increments of a degree. Example: By setting the alignment paddle to +1 you will increase heel relief by a measurement of degree, not by one degree. If your drill starts to look rounded at the tip and the opposite cutting lip is hitting as it cams around, you have increased the relief setting too far to the + direction. Make sure to maintain consistent inward pressure while sharpening make sure that the grinding is complete before removing your drill. You may have the material removal knob set to high. Decrease the amount of material set to be removed and re-sharpen the drill. Clean or replace your grinding wheel.
Use the alignment paddle to adjust the amount of relief. Moving the paddle to the plus side will increase the amount of relief, moving it to the minus side will decrease relief. Different drills may require different settings to achieve the same relief, some experimentation might be required to find the correct settings for your drill. It is also important to remember that as you sharpen a drill the web size changes so it may be necessary to adjust the settings to compensate for this.
Make small adjustments on your relief settings, and check the effect on your drill. Check your material take off calibration, at 1 you should remove approximately .005 material from the end of the drill. Excessive MTO will change the timing of the cutting edge and cause negative releif. If the problem persists, contact Darex customer service for advice.
Most Darex orders are shipped using UPS ground service. If you would like change this be sure to mention your desired changes when ordering.
Please contact Darex customer service as soon as possible and we will correct any mistakes we have made on your order.
CBN – approximately 1000 – 2000 Diamond – approximatley 500 – 750
The wheels on Darex machines are designed for long-term use and yours may just be dirty. Remove the wheel and use an oil-less solvent such as automotive brake cleaner to clean it. Then replace the wheel and continue sharpening. If your wheel is truly worn out you will notice a change in the grinding sound and may start to experience burnt or slightly discolored drill points. In this case contact Darex customer service or order a new part online.
After grinding the end of the End Mill a small amount of material is left in the middle of the end mill what is wrong?
The edge of the grinding wheel has broken down and a radius has formed. Using a rotary wheel dresser, dress the face of the wheel back past the radius until you have a crisp wheel edge.

Drill Doctor, Work Sharp, & Darex Sharpeners sold in the United States and Canada are designed and manufactured for 115V 60 Hz power supplies only. We assemble and ship product for a specific region’s power needs to many distributors around the world. We want to make sure you have the correct product to safely and effectively sharpen your tools.

Using a 115V machine in a location that uses 230V power sources not only voids your warranty, but also increases the chance of failure and reduces the life and performance of your tool. We want you to purchase the proper tool so you can experience the optimal performance and life of our tools.

 

Why is this important?

 

First some clarification:

  • A Transformer reduces or increases AC voltage
  • A Converter converts current from AC to DC
  • An Inverter converts current from DC to AC

Using a simple plug adapter and no other transformation or conversion from 230v to 115v leaves the unit running on twice the rated voltage—the motor runs very hot, very fast and for a very short time before it destroys itself. A plug adapter allows the US-plug to fit into your receptacle, but doesn’t impact the power provided to the unit.

Our products do not have a ‘smart cable’ like you would find on a laptop that has a built in power supply to take input current/voltage and transform it to lower voltage. That Power Supply converts from AC to DC current at the low voltage (1-24vDC) input needed for a laptop battery or similar device.

A transformer (not a complete power supply), plugged into single phase 230v, can drop the voltage to the 115v range, but doesn’t account for the difference from US frequency at 60 Hz and Internationally at 50 Hz and may not regulate the voltage or provide sufficient amperage well depending on the quality of the device. Running on 50 Hz puts a greater strain on the motor, so while the correct voltage may be supplied to the unit, the frequency isn’t correct to get full performance (reduced power = lower efficiency = extra heat = destroyed unit). The voltage may also not be precise, out of a transformer and the 115v motors are designed to run in a specific range. High or low voltage will likely cause failures.

Forgive the long winded explanation but we want you to have a proper functioning tool that you are satisfied with now and long into the future.

No, these wheels are resin bonded, and designed to provide best results when used appropriately. HSS and Cobalt End Mills should be ground on a CBN Wheel; Carbide End Mills should be sharpened on a Diamond wheel. Do not mix materials, this can cause the bonding to fail and compromise the strength and structure
Yes, due to ware, a radius will form on the edge of the wheel. Once this appears you will need to dress the wheel past the radius. To dress the wheel you will need to use a rotary wheel dresser.
The Collet and/or Air spindle my be dirty, clean the ID and OD of the 5c collet and the ID of the Air Spindle with Alcohol and a lint free cloth. Check the ID of the air spindle for burrs. Dress the face of the grinding wheel.
When sharpening Carbide end mills using a Diamond wheel. For best results, sharpen Carbide end mills with the wheel rotating counterclockwise. This will debur the cutting edge and transfer the majority of the heat generated by the wheel into the heel and away from the cutting edge.
The spindle lock knob may be tightened down, back off this knob. Clean the OD of the Air Spindle with Alcohol and a lint free cloth. Check the Air pressure connected to the spindle, too much or too little air pressure will cause this. The optimum air pressure is 90 PSI but needs to remain above 75 PSI and below 125 PSI.