The drill head of a multi-spindle machine typically consists of a number of spindles that have been mounted on ball bearings that are driven by gears. The choice of bearings that will be used in the drill head depends on the distance between the spindles. For example, where spindles are quite close to each other, roller thrust ball bearings will be used. An induction motor is used to drive the spindles and the speed with which the motor operates the spindles is governed by a variable frequency drive.

They are used in mass production because of their high efficiency during operation and they also save on a lot of time where many holes need to be drilled at a time. They increase the productivity in a company and they drill holes on the same machinery of the same size which allows the holes to be interchangeable.