This article was co-authored by Christopher Thomas and by How.com.vn staff writer, Hunter Rising. Christopher Thomas is a Metallurgist based in Birmingham, Alabama. With 16 years of experience working for Commercial Metals Company, Christopher specializes in designing modern infrastructure, metal recycling, fabrication, performance steel, and construction services. His company is responsible for creating high-end structures, from the AT&T Stadium in Dallas to the Pentagon. Christopher holds a BS in Metallurgical Engineering from the University of Alabama.
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If you're tackling a DIY project that requires you to drill through metal, how can you know if you have the best tools for the job? Even if it may seem like a tough material to work with, you can easily drill through metal using a regular hand drill. Keep reading for everything you need to know and with a little patience, you'll be able to safely drill metal for any project!
Steps
Expert Q&A
- QuestionHow do I keep my drill bit from sliding?Christopher ThomasChristopher Thomas is a Metallurgist based in Birmingham, Alabama. With 16 years of experience working for Commercial Metals Company, Christopher specializes in designing modern infrastructure, metal recycling, fabrication, performance steel, and construction services. His company is responsible for creating high-end structures, from the AT&T Stadium in Dallas to the Pentagon. Christopher holds a BS in Metallurgical Engineering from the University of Alabama.
MetallurgistMake a dimple in the metal where you plan on drilling, which helps provide containment for the bit at the start of the process. Another way is to use a small diameter punch and make a hole where you plan on drilling—this acts as a guide to control the bit at the start. - QuestionDo I have to put on goggles?How.com.vn Staff EditorThis answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
Staff AnswerHow.com.vn Staff EditorStaff AnswerGoggles protect you from sharp debris, so you should always wear them when you're drilling metal. - QuestionDo I drill first with a small drill bit, then with a larger one?Community AnswerYes. The small hole is called a pilot hole. And before that, you should use a punch for marking.
Tips
Warnings
- Metal shavings are sharp, so clean them up with a brush or wear thick work gloves when you handle them.Thanks
Expert Interview
Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about drilling metal, check out our in-depth interview with Christopher Thomas.
References
- ↑ https://knowhow.napaonline.com/drill-metal-beginners-guide/
- ↑ https://knowhow.napaonline.com/drill-metal-beginners-guide/
- ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/479-drilling-with-care/
- ↑ https://youtu.be/H_ohtEiTZmQ?t=256
- ↑ https://youtu.be/KHCjxCJDgxk?t=29
- ↑ https://youtu.be/KHCjxCJDgxk?t=73
- ↑ https://knowhow.napaonline.com/drill-metal-beginners-guide/
- ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-use-a-drill/
- ↑ https://carbideprocessors.com/content/drill-speed.pdf
About This Article
Before drilling metal, choose the right kind of bit. For softer metals, like aluminum, a high-speed steel bit will work. For steel or other hard metals, use carbide, cobalt, or titanium. Put on a pair of work gloves and safety glasses, then clamp down the piece of metal to hold it steady while you drill. Draw an X on the metal where you want to drill, then make a dent on the mark with a hammer and center punch. Put a coin-sized amount of cutting oil on the spot to help lubricate and cool the drill bit. Hold the drill perpendicular to the metal and squeeze the trigger lightly while applying pressure to help push the bit through the metal. If the metal starts to glow or get too hot, take a break and add more cutting oil. Once you pierce the metal, switch the drill to reverse and carefully pull the bit out. Smooth the edges of the hole with a deburring tool when you’re done.
Reader Success Stories
- "I now know I need a special bit for drilling metal and was told what kind. Thanks!"
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