How to Use a Step Drill Bit | Know Pros and Cons

Step drill bits are unique types of drill bits that range from their tip to their base in diameter. They look like a small pine tree.  Such drill bits have tips that are drilled to different diameters so that they can be used for variable diameter holes.

The two main types of drill bits are counter-bore and countersink drill bits.  The counter-bore is a straight slide between the surface diameter and the main diameter. Countersink drill bits are slightly angled.

Step drill bits have various applications. However, they are more costly than other drill bits.  Step drill bits are mainly designed to drill metal sheets and wood.

Using Step Drill Bits in the Right Manner

It's very easy to use a step drill bit if you know the basics. You just need these measures and the following steps:

Use Protection Shield While Drilling

• When using a step drill bit to drill wood, always use goggles or other eye protection since the splinters and scrapings will fly into your face.
• Wear gloves so that your hands are not affected by any shavings or pieces that bounce off the surroundings.
• Also, make sure the electrical outlet that you have plugged in is secured.  
• When dealing with power tools, don't throw caution to the wind. In favor of protection, it is often better to postpone work.

Know Your Drilling Surface

You must distinguish step drill bits between different types of surfaces while working on metal, wood, or even an alloy. You would need a separate step drill bit for stainless steel, a separate step drill bit for wood, and a separate one for aluminum or iron.

Place the Step Drill Bit in the Right Position

It is necessary to place the center punch point exactly where the hole is to be drilled. You can use a hammer to strike the center punch's blunt end if you know the precise place. This will provide a clear location for positioning and capturing the drill bit. It will make sure that the drill doesn't move and you can work in the right position.

Secure the Bit into the Drill Motor

First, ensure that the drill bit matches the center mark and press down on the trigger of the drill. Make sure that the tiny drill bit passes through the metal sheet or wooden sheet all the way through.

Take Frequent Intervals

Putting constant pressure on the drill bit is not appropriate. Therefore, when you are drilling, take short intervals. This is not only to give the machine rest, but it is also to add some tapping fluid to keep the drill cold. It may produce sparks or damage the surrounding material if it overheats.

Removal and Cleaning

After drilling, the step drill bit needs to be taken out of the motor. After that, you should keep cleaning the engine and all of the drill bits to get rid of any metal shavings. Also, clean these metal shavings from the hole that you have drilled as well.

Before storing, you must thoroughly polish the metal after using a step drill bit. For storage, use the standard drill bit container. This will secure the drill bits more properly for further usage and extend their lifespan.

Step Drill Bit: Pros and Cons

There are many advantages of using a step drill bit for drilling. Yet, there is another side too. And you must be aware of that side too. Here, you will find some pros and cons of using a step drill bit.

Pros-

• To get the precise, clean holes you want, use a step drill bit.
• A step drill bit is much more effective than drilling a hole with a traditional drill bit, as it requires less maintenance.
• Their variable diameters make them much faster than standard drill bits to shape large holes. 
• Step drill bits work incredibly well on metal sheets.
• It is easy to drill into soft materials because of the lower acute cut angle, which is a feature of the step drill bit.
• This can drill aluminum, brass, and plastics very smoothly.

Cons-

• Frequently sharpening step drill bits is quite challenging.
• They work on small stock as they are mostly ¼ inch thick. 
• A pilot hole is necessary for the process of using a step drill bit. And this requires some extra time.
• Step drill bits are limited to specific purposes. These bits are more costly than standard drill bits. To have good-quality drill bits, you have to invest more. 
• Apart from metals or alloys, it is not suitable for many other materials.
• If a single step of the step drill bit is damaged, you will need to replace it. They can not be machined or fixed; they only need to be replaced. 

Important Things to Remember While Using a Step Drill Bit

The following are a few considerations to remember while using a drill bit:

• Type of Material: The perfect drilling speed and pressure will change according to the type of material you are working on. Harder materials, such as metal, require slower speeds and a more constant pressure; on the other hand, softer materials, such as wood or plastic, can be drilled at higher speeds.

• Quality of a bit: This is also a crucial factor while using drill bits. Good-quality step drill bits are designed with premium materials, generate cleaner and more accurate holes, and are highly durable compared to cheaper drill bits. When you spend money on quality, you will have fewer broken parts and less irritation, and you will get better results in your projects.

• Avoid Overheating: Heat is the major concern while using the drill bits. Avoid using drill bits if the smoke is produced from the bits or if it starts fading. Let the bit cool down completely before starting to work again. Remember to apply appropriate lubricants.

Well, that was all about a step drill bit and its advantages and disadvantages. We assume now you are fully aware of using a step drill bit in the right manner.