Choosing The Right Drill Speed For Metal Sheets
It is important when drilling metals to use the correct drill speed to avoid damaging the drill bit.
Figure 1 - Sheet metal - steel
Note: Drill bit speeds are based on high quality drill bits rated for drilling in metal.
| Table 1 - Metal Drill Bit Speeds | ||||||||
Hole Diameter Inches |
Brass |
Aluminum |
Steel |
|||||
Twist Drills |
Pilot-Point Drills |
Hole Saws |
Twist Drills |
Pilot-Point Drills |
Hole Saws |
Twist Drills |
Pilot-Point Drills |
|
1/16 |
3000 |
3000 |
3000 |
|||||
1/8 - 3/16 |
3000 |
2000 |
3000 |
1500 |
3000 |
3000 |
||
1/4 - 3/8 |
1200 |
1500 |
2500 |
1000 |
1000 |
2000 |
||
7/16 - 1/2 |
750 |
1500 |
150 |
750 |
600 |
1200 |
||
9/16 - 5/8 |
750 |
150 |
600 |
|||||
11/16 - 1 |
400 |
1000 |
350 |
|||||
1 - 1 1/2 |
250 |
250 |
||||||
1 5/8 - 2 1/2 |
150 |
250 |
||||||
Note: It is always wise to use a cutting oil to lubricate the drill bit when drilling any metals. Cutting oil
Additional information:
Drill Speeds - Hardwood and Softwood
Drill Speeds - Acrylic and Polycarbonate
How To Drill - Ceramics
How To Drill - Porcelain, Marble & Granite
