What is a common application for a reamer in aircraft maintenance?

A reamer is specifically designed for finishing holes in metal structures, such as those found in aircraft maintenance. Its primary function is to accurately enlarge and smooth the interior surface of a pre-drilled hole. By providing a finer tolerance than a standard drill bit, a reamer ensures that the hole meets the necessary specifications for bolt or fastener fitting, which is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of the aircraft.

When reaming, the tool removes only a small amount of material, achieving a precise diameter and a smooth surface finish that can accommodate fasteners securely, reducing the risk of wear over time. This precision is particularly important in aircraft applications, where safety and performance are paramount.

The other options, while related to metalworking, do not align with the primary function of a reamer. Flattening surfaces typically involves other tools like grinders or surface plates. Sharpening tools is a separate process that requires different equipment, often focused on maintaining the edges or points of cutting tools. Drilling holes is a function of drill bits rather than reamers, as they are primarily intended for creating holes rather than finishing them.