Abstract: Carbide drilling and cutting tools for use in manufacturing printed circuit boards are provided by a process that recycles used tools as the starting raw materials. The used tools have a working portion and shank with a diameter of, for example, approximately 0.125 inches. The working portion of the used tool is removed and a new carbide head is attached to the remaining shank. The new carbide head, which also has a diameter of approximately 0.125 inches, is then machined to create a new working portion. The new tool is distributed for use and then recovered after use for recycling and manufacture of new tools from the shanks of the recycled tools.

Abstract: An endodontic instrument for use in performing root canal procedures comprises an elongate working portion and a chisel tip portion which has removing edges that improve the effectiveness of the instrument in extirpating and enlarging the root canal.

Abstract: An endodontic instrument is provided for use in performing root canal procedures and comprises an elongate working portion and a chisel tip portion which has removing edges that improve the effectiveness of the instrument in extirpating and enlarging the root canal. The working portion has a non-uniform taper which accelerates from a proximal end of the instrument to a distal end forming a region of enhanced compliance adjacent the tip.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for automated loading of a drilling machine package having a plurality of drill bit receiving openings arranged in a known configuration with verified precision drill bits from a drill bit container is disclosed. The apparatus includes an automated transfer machine which is connected to a control device, a package frame, a container receiving member, and a diameter sensing device. While not necessarily connected to the automated transfer machine, the package frame and the container receiving member are located at positions which are accessible by the automated transfer machine. Further, the diameter sensing device is operably associated with the automated transfer machine. The method of operation includes the control device recalling data specific to a particular job. A drill bit container is placed on the container receiving member.