Whether you are a DIYer or just want to use a drill machine for your household purpose, we often need to deal with steel. Drilling into steel isn't that difficult. But, if you are an amateur but need to drill into such metal materials, it's important to learn a few techniques beforehand. Otherwise, you may end up destroying the material or creating an improper size hole. A professional like an electrician, carpenter, or mechanic, they can drill any material so well due to experience. Since a DIYer doesn't have that much experience, there is a huge chance of making a mistake. Therefore, to minimize the risk of damaging your material, especially steel, below are some steps we would like to discuss to guide you. The professionals follow these steps. You can follow the process for practice first! Things you need According to toolknows.com before we actually discuss the process, you need to make an arrangement of the things you would need to begin with. Below are some of the items and tools you would require to start drilling. A power drill machine with adjustable setting
How to drill into steel like a pro Now, when you are ready with all the materials, it's time to get started with the drilling. Step 1: Examine the piece of steel you will drill through The steel can be of different types of thickness. The pressure and speed of the drill machine would depend on the thickness. Therefore, you need to examine the steel you are going to drill through carefully. Check whether it's thin or thick, lightweight or heavy, etc. Step 2: Secure the steel for material safety Now, before you begin to drill, secure the steel on a piece of wood using a pair of clamps on both sides. The clamp will help to stay the piece in place. This step is important because, if the steel piece accidentally slips off the place, then you may hurt or cut yourself. So, securing the steel will work as a shield for both the material and the person. Step 3: Take protective measures for yourself Drilling any kinds of material has a risk factor. Since the drill bit spin fast and rapidly, there is a high chance that the debris or tiny particles may be stuck in your eyes. If you are drilling glass or steel, you may also cut yourself. Therefore, to protect yourself from any accident, you should wear thick working gloves and safety glasses. Step 4: use lubricant If your drill bit is fresh and never used before, you are good to go. But, professionals use lubricants for faster and smooth performance. So, if your drill bit is used or dull, you may use lubricant. Therefore, you may need motor oil and apply on the base of the bit. Step 5: Mark the area to drill For accuracy and precision, it's recommended to place a mark on the steel. You can use a marker or leave an identifying mark using your hand. Step 6: start to drill As you start to drill, you should begin with a low speed. Putting a moderate pressure, slowly start to create a hole. This way, you will be able to make the right size of the hole with perfection. Step 7: cool down the drill bit when hot As you drill through metal or steel, you may notice smoke or the drill bit gets too hot. It's an alarming situation because your drill bit may get damaged. Just like any pro, you need to cool down the drill bit. You should stop your work and use water to cool down the bit. You can also use cooling lubricant for this purpose. Step 8: Tips to drill a 3/8-inch hole If you are drilling on steel around ⅜ inches hole, you need to start small. So, using a ½ inch bit, start a hole. Then, use a ¼ inch bit to create a larger hole. And finally, use ⅜ inch for the final finish. Step 9: Pay attention As you drill through metal or steel, there is always a risk to break the bit. In such a case, you should be very careful and hold on to the device tightly and work slowly. Otherwise, you may not only break the bit but also damage the material. In a severe case, you may also hurt yourself. So, pay attention and be careful. Final thought So, these are the processes any professionals would follow when they drill through steel or metal. If you also want to act like a pro, you must practice these steps beforehand. And to do the job perfectly, you must have a good quality drill and the right drill bit. Keep practicing, as the practice of drilling will make you a pro. And these steps will help you drill any material, not just any steel.
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