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Choosing The Correct Drill Speed For Brass, Aluminum & Steel

It is important when drilling brass, aluminum and steel to use the correct drill speed to avoid damaging the metal and the drill bit.

sheet metal
Figure 1 - Sheet metal - steel

Note: The drill bit speeds, listed here, are based on high quality drill bits rated for drilling in metal.

Table 1 - Drill Bit Speeds For Brass

Hole Diameter Inches

Brass

Twist Drills

Pilot-Point Drills

Hole Saws

1/16 3000    
1/8 - 3/16 3000 2000  
1/4 - 3/8 1200 1500  
7/16 - 1/2 750 1500  
9/16 - 5/8 750    
11/16 - 1 400    
1 - 1 1/2     250
1 5/8 - 2 1/2     150

Table 2 - Drill Bit Speeds For Aluminum

Hole Diameter Inches

Aluminum

Twist Drills

Pilot-Point Drills

Hole Saws

1/16 3000    
1/8 - 3/16 3000 1500  
1/4 - 3/8 2500 1000  
7/16 - 1/2 150 750  
9/16 - 5/8 150    
11/16 - 1 1000    
1 - 1 1/2     250
1 5/8 - 2 1/2     250

Table 3 - Drill Bit Speeds For Steel

Hole Diameter Inches

Steel

Twist Drills

Pilot-Point Drills

1/16 3000  
1/8 - 3/16 3000 3000
1/4 - 3/8 1000 2000
7/16 - 1/2 600 1200
9/16 - 5/8 600  
11/16 - 1 350  

Note: It is always wise to use a cutting oil to lubricate the drill bit when drilling any metals. Cutting oil will help to prevent the bit from overheating.

Additional information:

Drill Speeds - Hardwood and Softwood

Drill Speeds - Acrylic and Polycarbonate

How To Drill - Ceramics

How To Drill - Porcelain, Marble & Granite