Brace yourself – this is actually basic “machining”
While many stainless steel products come pre-drilled and cut, there are some circumstances where you may need to do additional work onsite, or post-installation. With the right tools and know-how however, working with stainless steel can be effortless.
Whether you’re drilling, tapping or cutting stainless steel, the general guidance is the same:
- center punch and/or center drill, (to avoid ‘skating’)
- start slowly, (keeps the temperature manageable)
- use lubricant and/or cutting fluid, (keeps the temperature manageable)
- once engaged-do NOT stop, (this is to avoid the tendency of Stainless Steel to ‘work harden’ after a single heat cycle) and
- keep an eye on the temperature.
It’s important to keep in mind that working with stainless steel can be dangerous if the proper safety precautions are not taken. It can also be VERY disappointing if the wrong tools are used.
It is best to wear protective eyewear, earwear and gloves when working with metal to help prevent accidents, injury or splinters. Metalwork should also not be done on hot, dry days as it a potential fire hazard.
A workspace, including tools, bits, burrs, blades, and discs used on Stainless Steel – should be dedicated to Stainless Steel to avoid cross contamination of metals – which can result in a disimilar metals (galvanic) reaction yielding corrosion.
Drilling Stainless Steel
When drilling stainless steel, it is important to note that drill bits intended for woodwork cannot be used on stainless steel, as they are often softer than the steel itself. Smaller drill bits can also be challenging to work with as they are more prone to bending/breaking under pressure. And if you want more detail – check this out Can I drill Stainless Steel?
Tapping Stainless Steel
Unlike when you are drilling, it is best not to apply too much pressure when tapping stainless, as this can result in an uneven thread, or broken drill bits. Slowly guide your tap/bit through the predrilled hole, ensuring you hold your tool steady and straight. This process should be much easier than the initial drilling as less material is being removed. And if you want more detail – check this out Can I Tap Stainless Steel?
Cutting Stainless Steel
There are many different ways to cut stainless steel. However when working with stainless steel (if you haven’t figured it out already and really want some advice), there are a few classes of tools:
- Really Stupid:
- Acceptable: and
- Best Practice:
And if you want more detail – check this out Can I Cut Stainless Steel?