The second element in a Drill Presses description is the number of speeds. Most bench units are five speeds, with larger bench and floor units having anywhere from five to sixteen speeds. The obvious function of a drill press is the drilling into wood and various other materials. Because of the ease of speed changes and the range of speeds, additional tasks can be performed. A lower speed allows for drilling into metals, plastics, aluminum, etc.
Higher speeds permit sanding drums to be used.
Because of the necessity for accuracy, drilling holes far dowels is a function not easily done with a hand held drill. Angle direction and depth of the hole can be quickly checked and controlled with a drill press throughout the entire drilling operation. Scored or marred drill shanks will not cut a true hole. When drilling hard material with a large drill, use a lower speed. Small drills should be run at higher speeds and should be fed into the work with care.