How To Cut A 1 Inch Hole In Sheet Metal

At first locate the center of the whole.

How to cut a 1 inch hole in sheet metal.

Now it s time to use that center punch. This will create dimples in the sheet. Like twist bits hole saws chuck right into your drill and will cut through thin gauge sheet metals like aluminum and steel. Metal cutting hole saws are typically available in 3 4 inch to 6 inches in size and.

Now drill the final hole at the desired diameter with the corresponding twisted drill bit but put a cloth between the bit and the metal. Next use a compass to outline the edge of the hole. The pilot hole will help you positioning the drill bit and than just drill. Put your ink to the use and mark the hole center.

In contrast to how twist and step drill bits operate hole saws work by cutting out the edges of an opening. Snip the two sides. Since this is a small hole a normal drill bit will work well in the sheet metal without extra precautions. Then bend the sheet back and forth a few times to snap it.

Depending on the tools you have you ll now need to punch or drill a hole where the indentation has been made to produce an accurate hole in your sheet metal. Place your sheet metal on your steel block and position your centre punch at a central point in your cut out design. Place the tips of. Clamp or hold a straightedge or square along the cutting marks and score a line with the tip of a sharp utility knife blade.

Then create a pilot hole within the penciled circle using a power drill fitted with a 1 2 inch or greater metal cutting bit in order to accommodate the jaws of the tin snips. Tap your hammer to leave an indentation on the sheet metal. For large holes a hole saw gets the job done cleanly and quickly. Use a scrap of plywood as a backer for the hole saw s pilot bit and to protect your work surface.