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General => General Discussion => Topic started by: albany_nomads on November 04, 2012, 01:13:14 PM

Title: drilling CAST IRON..need your advice
Post by: albany_nomads on November 04, 2012, 01:13:14 PM

Hi Guys..got a question in regards to drilling CAST IRON
Ive got a 800mm diameter domed 9mm thick cast iron fire pit..its great..BUT when it rains it fills up with water..I dont want to have to make a lid for it so the next easiest solution is to drill a hole in the bottom so the water can drain.
I cant say I have ever drilled cast iron..any secrets or problems I should know about.
The last thing I want is it to crack (if thats possible)
So do I drill fast or slow speed, are there special drill bits or will normal high speed steel bits do

Much appreciated in advance
Kind Regards John...Albany Nomads

Title: drilling CAST IRON..need your advice
Post by: albany_nomads on November 04, 2012, 01:54:39 PM

Done... Slow speed, started with small bit worked up to larger bit with lubricant ... Just like drilling std steel


John

Title: Re: drilling CAST IRON..need your advice
Post by: Simoncurly on November 04, 2012, 10:41:50 PM

As you have found out grey iron is pretty free machining and can generally be done without lube at lower speeds

cheers Simon

Title: Re: drilling CAST IRON..need your advice
Post by: achjimmy on November 05, 2012, 07:29:34 PM

Yep no lubricant for cast iron, it's machined dry.