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Drilling Stainless

http://www.thebrewingnetwork.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=12270

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Drilling Stainless

Posted: Mon Dec 29, 2008 1:17 pm
by Phil_L
What's the best way? I have been told that I should use some magnesium oxide, and a certain type of drill bit.

and, whilst I am on it, removing paint... grinder and pads, or is there a chemical that I can use?

Re: Drilling Stainless

Posted: Mon Dec 29, 2008 3:33 pm
by huskerbrew
Use a step bit or unibit and plenty of cutting oil. It helps to drill a pilot hole first with a smaller bit, then use the step bit.

Re: Drilling Stainless

Posted: Mon Dec 29, 2008 3:39 pm
by UnaHopper
+1 lots of oil and a step bit. Otherwise you'll burn up any bits you have.

I used a die grinder with a wire brush wheel to get the stickers and paint off my kegs.

Re: Drilling Stainless

Posted: Mon Dec 29, 2008 6:21 pm
by BadRock
UnaHopper wrote:+1 lots of oil and a step bit. Otherwise you'll burn up any bits you have.

I used a die grinder with a wire brush wheel to get the stickers and paint off my kegs.


Using a wire brush on stainless can cause the surface to rust. Try to avoid metal wheels, there are several alternatives that use different materials.

Re: Drilling Stainless

Posted: Mon Dec 29, 2008 7:12 pm
by UnaHopper
BadRock wrote:
UnaHopper wrote:+1 lots of oil and a step bit. Otherwise you'll burn up any bits you have.

I used a die grinder with a wire brush wheel to get the stickers and paint off my kegs.


Using a wire brush on stainless can cause the surface to rust. Try to avoid metal wheels, there are several alternatives that use different materials.


Yes, I'd recommend a brass wheel, not steel.

Re: Drilling Stainless

Posted: Mon Dec 29, 2008 10:26 pm
by Grist Licker
huskerbrew wrote:Use a step bit or unibit and plenty of cutting oil. It helps to drill a pilot hole first with a smaller bit, then use the step bit.


Also, go SLOW. Too muck friction heat will harden the stainless and dull your bit. I used gun oil instead of cutting oil and it worked fine.

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