Understanding Filing Techniques: Draw Filing Explained

Filing is a fundamental metalworking process that involves using a file, which is a hand tool, to remove small amounts of material from a workpiece. Different filing techniques are used depending on the desired finish, speed, and type of surface being worked on. The question asks about a specific technique where the file is moved back and forth across the work.

What is Draw Filing?

Draw filing is a finishing technique used primarily to achieve a smooth, straight surface on metal. In this method, the file is held transversely (at a 90-degree angle) to the length of the workpiece. The file is then pushed and pulled sideways across the surface, with the teeth cutting on both the push and pull strokes. This action shaves off very fine amounts of material, resulting in a clean, smooth finish, often free from the scratches left by traditional filing methods.

Comparing Draw Filing and Straight Filing

Let's look at the main filing techniques mentioned in the options:

• Straight Filing (or Cross Filing): This is the most common filing method. The file is pushed forward along the length of the workpiece, away from the person filing. The cutting action occurs primarily on the forward stroke. The file is lifted slightly on the return stroke to prevent dulling the teeth. This method is used for roughing, shaping, and general stock removal.
• Draw Filing: As described above, the file is held perpendicular to the workpiece and moved sideways across it, pushing and pulling. This method is used for finishing and straightening surfaces, providing a smoother finish than straight filing.
• Push Pull Filing: This term directly describes the motion used in draw filing – pushing and pulling the file across the work. While "push pull filing" isn't a standard, universally recognized technical term in the same way as "draw filing" or "straight filing," the action it describes matches the motion of draw filing. However, "draw filing" is the established name for this specific technique.

Based on the description provided in the question, "When the file is pushed and pulled across the work," the technique being referred to is Draw Filing. The motion of pushing and pulling the file perpendicular to the direction of travel across the work is characteristic of draw filing, which is done to obtain a smooth finish.