How to Drill Stainless Steel

Drilling crisp, accurate holes within the more complex stained steel grades are pretty darn problematic; the statement is a myth. It would be best if you had extra-sharp, extra-hard, extra-expensive drill bits.

Drilling holes even in exceptionally hard stainless is relatively easy, albeit you've got comparatively simple, low-tech tools. The key's keeping the assembly of friction-generated heat to a minimum, either with cooling pastes and liquids or water.

How to Drill Stainless Steel (Step by Step)

Mainly cobalt drill bits for stainless steel drilling are the best option. Following the steps for the drilling:

• Mark the opening position with a marker pen, or if preferred, tap a slight indent with a 3-corner pyramid punch.
• If the metal to be drilled is a smaller amount than 3mm thick, it's going to be possible to use one bit to realize the specified size hole; however, if the metal is thicker, it's recommended to start with a touch of half the dimensions of the specified hole diameter for an initial hole then intensify to the ultimate size drill for second drilling.
• Firmly clamp the workpiece into position, ensuring it's secure. If the drilling bit grabs during operation or when the drill exits on the side.
• If drilling with hand tools, drop a liberal amount of cutting fluid/ lubricant onto the marked metal. If you're employing a coolant delivery system, set that up as per the manufacturer's guidelines.
• When drilling chrome steel, one among the simplest indicators of whether the speed, pressure, and feed rates are correct is to observe the swarf; the swarf should cleanly exit the opening and be helical in shape and a short length.
• Once the opening has been made, confirm you are not touching the bit or the opening as they're going to be hot enough to cause a burn. Care should be taken when wiping the coolant off the metal because the swarf held within the coolant may scratch the surface.

These steps should have you ever drilling through chrome steel a professional in no time; however, below is more information to offer you a way more profound knowledge of the way to drill chrome steel to urge the absolute best results whenever.

Choosing the proper drilling bit

There are many various sorts of drilling bit and reamers suitable for drilling chrome steel. Choosing the right type for a specific project is paramount to achieving the most straightforward results.

HSS or High-Speed-Steel bits 

They are designed to be used on chrome steel and may be used for hand and machine drilling. It's recommended to use an HSS bit that's TiN tipped because the Titanium Nitride reduces friction which successively reduces work hardening.

Cobalt drill bits

 These are specifically engineered to supply heavy-duty performance on high tensile metals. Cobalt bits are manufactured from a steel alloy with between 5% to eight % cobalt content.