What is a square file?

29th February 2020


	What is a square file?


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			Square files are machinist’s files that can be used in slots and key ways.

			They are also used for roughing (removing material quickly) when turning round drill holes into square slots. For a step by step guide, see: How to square a round hole with files

			What are the characteristics of a square file?
			Cross section As the name suggests, square files have a square cross section.

			This means that they can be used to file square or rectangular notches in a workpiece.

			They can also be used to create right-angled notches by turning the file to cut with its corner (edge).

			Profile They taper in both width and thickness.

			This enables them to be used to enlarge square holes.

			Cut They are double cut on all four faces, allowing them to remove material with multiple faces with equal speed.

			Size Square files are usually available in lengths from 100mm (4 inches) to 350mm (14 inches).

			Swiss or American? Square files can be either Swiss or American pattern.