How to Drill a Hole in Glass Without Cracking it

Learn how to safely drill a hole in the glass without chipping, cracking, or shattering it to pieces. Follow these step-by-step instructions to get a hole where you want it, without breaking the glass.

Process of Drilling a Hole in a Glass

To drill a hole through glass is a difficult task. One needs to be really cautious and precise while drilling a hole in a glass and avoid breaking it at the same time. Attempting this task is risky as you might break the glass or injure yourself in the process. Safety and the use of correct tools and gears play a major role in getting this task done successfully. The use of proper drilling bits will decide the precision and perfection of your job.

Preparations for the job (requirements for drill through glass)

• Speed Drill
• Carbide Drill Bits
• Grinding face shield
• Lubrication Oil
• Masking take
• Marker Pen
• Safety Gear like goggles, gloves, etc.
• Sandpaper or File
• Safety clamps (if needed)

Steps to Drill a Hole in a Glass without Cracking it

1. Mark the glass object where you want to drill a hole, by using a marker. 
2. Stick a masking tape making the shape of X on the surface to prevent the drill bit from drifting.
3. Mark the spot for the hole after measuring it to avoid cracking.
4. Use lubricating oil for smoothness.
5. It is recommended to use drill bits ranging from ⅛ inches to 3/32. 
6. Use the size of the drill bit that is appropriate to the size of the hole you have marked.
7. Keep in check the pressure you put on the glass while applying the drill bit to it. Apply the slightest pressure to the glass, a little extra might break the glass.
8. Continuing at a speed not more than 400 rpm, balance the drill by putting light pressure.
9. Pause and clean the dust and apple oil as and when required. 
10. After the drill bit has created a clean hole, you will find the edges to be a little chipped on the exits of the glass.
11. Turn over the glass and repeat the same process. When you are done with the drilling part, use a file or sandpaper to smoothen the edges and give a proper finish to the hole.

Appropriate Tools for Drilling

Drill Bits

Drill bits are the tools used for jobs that need accuracy and perfection. For performing tasks on delicate material, the drill bit is the most suitable tool. Drill bit set containing a wide range of drill bits of different sizes are mainly used for making holes in fragile material like glass. 

Perfectly smooth and round holes are expected from the sharp tips of the bits working exactly where drilling is required. Metals like plastic, wood, aluminum, soft steel, etc., are the ones on which the drill bits work the best.

Types of Drill Bits

Designed for drilling through hard materials like stainless steel, wood, plastic, hard steel, these Cobalt drill bits have superior resistance to heat and friction. The tool has great longevity because of its build.

Carbide burrs are known to provide the best finish when removing excess stock after drilling into metal. These burrs are used for drilling and cavities in a perfect manner which can be used to drill holes in a glass without cracking it. 

Safety Equipment for Drill Through Glass

Drill bits are the best tool for making holes in glass. The best finish can be obtained when the drill bit is used by applying controlled and slight pressure on the glass. When drilling holes in a glass, the most important thing to keep in mind is safety while drilling. Use all the safety gear and follow the precautions while using the drilling machine and drill bits. Using gloves, grinding face shields, safety boots, goggles, etc. are the safety gears that may help you in avoiding any kind of injury.