Drill Speed?

JSPipes · Post by **JSPipes** » Sun Dec 18, 2005 8:44 pm

I'm working to learn to operate my Taig on scrap before I attempt to make a stem. I drilled one at the slowest speed (525) and it was crooked (wandered off center). I drilled another at a much faster speed and it was straight, but the bit got real hot and I'm afraid that had I been working vulcanite, it would have melted.

So, at what speed do you drill your stems?

Thanks!

RadDavis · Post by **RadDavis** » Mon Dec 19, 2005 1:24 am

Hi Joel,

I drill my stems at a little over 1000 rpm, but I only drill about 1/4 inch at a time.

Push it in, pull it out, and clear the bit by flicking it with my finger. It always stays straight, and doesn't get hot enough to melt anything.

Rad

Post by **KurtHuhn** » Mon Dec 19, 2005 12:36 pm

Ditto what Rad said. I drill at 500 RPM, and only about 1/4" at a time.

JSPipes · Post by **JSPipes** » Mon Dec 19, 2005 2:31 pm

Thanks! I'm going to work on it some more tomorrow when the kids are in day care. Hopefully it'll go better.

magruder · Post by **magruder** » Mon Dec 19, 2005 7:42 pm

Are you using a center drill to begin?
I think that plus a moderate (500) speed will do it if you use the Rad "drill n' flick" method.
Best Regards,
Steve

JSPipes · Post by **JSPipes** » Mon Dec 19, 2005 11:28 pm

Well, this is sorta embarrasing. But I didn't check before hand, so I got what I should have. The tailstock on the lathe wasn't quite centered.

Should be ok now. I got that taken care of.