A drill press is an essential and convenient tool for DIYer projects that involve versatility. Since precision is the goal that you want to achieve with a drill press, you cannot choose just about any model or version. Similarly, you cannot start working right away without any preparation even though you may feel proud of owning a high-end model.
Whether you are beginner or DIYer, you need to follow a few guidelines before working with a drill press for metal work. You might have seen a lot of instructions on the internet, but this article managed to simplify in 5 preparations.
Using Drill Press for Metal Work- A Prepare Guide
Taking Safety Kits
To prevent any hazardous situation, you must take every precaution necessary before going near to drill press for metal work. Remember to wear safety goggles while operating a hand-held drill and drill press. A tiny of piece of metal can cause severe eye injuries. If needed, use dust mask for breathing protection. Your metal workpiece must be properly clamped with C clamps to the machine’s table.
Gathering Tools and Materials
Tools and materials needed for metalwork depend on your choice. You will need the metal, perfect drill bit and C clamps to hold the work. Moreover, to drill holes in the metal, you must have a ruler, a measuring tape and a marker. After that, you will mark a spot where you want to make holes.
Fitting the Bit
The drill bits are designed for serving various purposes like drilling on woods, stones, bricks, metals, porcelain, glass and so on. Most users think that the HSS (high-speed steel) bit is the most appropriate drill bit for drilling hole on a metal. After finding the appropriate one, open up the chuck, place the bit into the chuck and tighten the jaws of the chuck. Make sure to remove the key and the bit is secure.
Clamping Your Work
Clamping your work is essential but you can do clamping in your ways. Just make sure that your metal work is firmly attached to the table. Drilling metal requires a lot of pressure and it is a slow process. The rotation of the bit will try to spin your works which is why you might sustain injuries. C-clamps are a fine solution to hold the metal sturdily against the table.
Choosing the Right Drill Speed
Like other rotating objects, Revolutions per Minute (Rpm) is the expression of drill bit speed. In most of the drill press, there are automatic RPM settings whereas old models need to control with a pulley. The faster speed is better for drilling holes on woods, but slower speed is appropriate for the metal. The speeding control varies from model to model. You should go through the manufacturer’s manual if you are confused with speed settings.
Now you are all set to drill holes in your metal. Again, if you are confused about the RPM setting and clamping, recheck everything. If needed, re-clamp the metal.
Once the preparation has been finished, you will find that using a drill press for metal work is a fun and easy to do. Connect the power and use your both hand to lower the quill. With gentle pressure, make a small hole and let the drill bit do the rest.
