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1 inch hole in 2 to 3mm steel
Posted: 31 Dec 2016, 17:19
by Ian and Lins
I want to drill/cut three 1 inch holes in 2 to 3 mm mild steel. How would you advise I do this?
Re: 1 inch hole in 2 to 3mm steel
Posted: 31 Dec 2016, 17:35
by volks_womble
Bi-metal hole saw on a drill. Slow speed with a bit of oil added to the cut whilst you are cutting.
Alternately a step dril is a good choice or a cone cutter if the size isn't critical.
Slow and with added lubricant is best tho
Mark
Re: 1 inch hole in 2 to 3mm steel
Posted: 31 Dec 2016, 17:37
by bigbadbob76
Probably a bit thick for a Q-max punch.
Hole saw would do the job fine, if you can get a bit of wood behind the panel that would help support it, but don't fret it if not.
Re: 1 inch hole in 2 to 3mm steel
Posted: 31 Dec 2016, 18:50
by Ian and Lins
Okay, thanks. I'll give it a go.
Re: 1 inch hole in 2 to 3mm steel
Posted: 31 Dec 2016, 19:02
by Oldiebut goodie
I use step cone drills, cheap as chips. I use them to cut holes in mounting plates for my heaters all the time. Mainly metric sizes easily available but imperial can be found.
Like this one:

Re: 1 inch hole in 2 to 3mm steel
Posted: 31 Dec 2016, 21:19
by clift_d
Step drill or QMax cutter.
Re: 1 inch hole in 2 to 3mm steel
Posted: 01 Jan 2017, 11:02
by Ian and Lins
Step drill I reckon then. I wasn't sure if something like this would cope as the mild steel is nearly 3mm thick (not a vehicle body panel). Thanks for all the advice.
Re: 1 inch hole in 2 to 3mm steel
Posted: 01 Jan 2017, 12:35
by Oldiebut goodie
My mount plates are 2mm thick steel. Just ease up on the drilling pressure as you reach the larger bore.