Omar Khalid
Drilling through plastic requires the right kind of drill bit to ensure that the plastic does not chip, crack, or melt. Spur-point drill bits, also known as dowel bits, are the most effective for drilling holes in plastic. They are specifically angled to make smooth cuts in the material. Auger drill bits are ideal for softer plastics, while carbide-tipped drill bits are best for ultra-hard materials like polymer composites. Diamond-coated drill bits are another expensive but durable option for hard, abrasive plastics. High-speed steel (HSS) drill bits are a popular choice for harder plastics, but they can dull quickly, so lubrication is necessary to prolong their sharpness.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Drill Bit Type | Spur-point bits/ dowel bits, Auger bits, Brad point bits, Step bits, High-speed steel (HSS) bits, Diamond-coated bits, Carbide-tipped bits, Masonry bits |
| Bit Size | 3-10mm |
| Speed | Slower speed for larger holes, reduce speed as the bit exits the material |
| Technique | Clamp plastic to a solid surface, use a spare piece of plywood underneath, apply lubrication, apply firm but gentle pressure |
| Use Case | Acrylic, Plexiglas, Lexan, ABS, PVC, softer plastics, harder plastics, ultra-hard plastics, metal, glass |
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What You'll Learn
Spur-point drill bits
When drilling into plastics, it is essential to choose the correct type of drill bit to achieve uniformly shaped, clean, and undamaged holes. Spur-point drill bits are specifically recommended for this purpose as they produce clean-sided holes without the rough edges that can lead to cracks in the plastic.
The use of a lubricant, such as WD40, canola oil, or vegetable oil, is also advised when drilling into plastic. This helps to remove debris, reduce heat, and prevent the drill from overheating. Applying light but firm pressure during the drilling process and slowing down or pausing to re-lubricate the drill as needed can further ensure precise and effective results.
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Auger drill bits
Auger bits are available in various diameters, typically ranging from 6mm to 16mm, and they are designed to create deep and clean holes quickly. They are known for their ability to drill deep holes, with a drilling hole depth of up to 6 inches or 250 mm. The length of the auger bits is usually 9 inches or 226-230mm.
When using an auger drill bit, it is important to note that they are not suitable for metal objects such as steel bars. To ensure a smooth drilling process, it is recommended to use painter's tape on the area where you intend to drill to prevent cracking in the surrounding plastic. Additionally, applying a lubricant during the drilling process can help remove unwanted debris and reduce heat, especially when drilling deeper holes.
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Diamond-coated drill bits
When drilling holes in soft plastics, it is recommended to use High-Speed Steel (HSS) drill bits. HSS drill bits are commonly used as general-purpose bits suitable for wood, soft metals, and plastics. They are also suitable for drilling acrylic or plastic. Twist drill bits, in particular, are a good option for drilling plastic. Made of carbon steel strengthened with chromium and vanadium, twist drill bits produce clean-sided holes and reduce the risk of cracks.
To achieve the best results when drilling holes in plastic, it is important to use the correct type of drill bit and follow the right drilling technique. Before drilling, place painter's tape on the area to prevent cracking. During the drilling process, apply light but firm pressure and use a lubricant to remove debris and reduce heat. Pause and re-lubricate the drill as needed to prevent overheating.
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High-speed steel drill bits
When it comes to drilling holes in plastic, it is important to use the correct type of drill bit to ensure that the holes are uniformly shaped, clean, and undamaged. Spur-point drill bits, also known as dowel bits, are a good option for drilling plastic as they have a centre point and two elevated spurs that help keep the bit straight, resulting in clean-sided holes without rough edges that can cause cracks. Spur point bits come in sizes ranging from 3 to 10mm and can be used for drilling plastics as well as wood.
Standard Twist HSS (High-Speed Steel) drill bits, also known as Jobber Drills, are another option for drilling plastic. HSS drill bits are designed to drill holes in both hard and soft plastics and can also be used as a general-purpose bit for drilling wood, soft metals, and other materials. HSS drill bits produce clean, chip-free holes with no chipping, cracking, grabbing, or melting. They are available in various sizes, including 1/8", 3/16", and 1/4" diameters, to suit different drilling needs.
When drilling plastic, it is important to take certain precautions to avoid cracking the material. Applying painter's tape to the area where you intend to drill can help prevent cracking. Using a lubricant during the drilling process can also help remove debris and reduce heat, especially when drilling deeper holes. Lubricants such as WD40, canola oil, or vegetable oil can be used. It is also important to apply firm but gentle pressure to the drill and to pause and re-lubricate as needed to prevent overheating.
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$20.79 $25.99
Brad point drill bits
When using a brad point drill bit for plastic, it is important to take certain precautions to ensure successful results. One technique is to apply painter's tape to the intended drilling area, which helps prevent cracking in the surrounding plastic. Additionally, using a lubricant during the drilling process can help remove debris and reduce heat, especially when drilling deeper holes. Suitable lubricants include WD40, canola oil, or vegetable oil.
It is recommended to apply firm but gentle pressure while drilling and to pause or slow down to re-lubricate the drill bit if it starts to overheat. By following these steps and using a brad point drill bit, you can achieve clean and precise holes in plastic without chipping, cracking, or melting the material.
Fulton offers a 12-inch extra-long brad point drill bit set that includes seven drill bits of various sizes, making it suitable for a range of projects and materials, including PVC, resin, and plywood. The high-speed steel construction of these bits provides durability and versatility for drilling into thicker materials. However, due to their sharp brad point tips, these bits are not recommended for drilling into metal objects.
Overall, brad point drill bits are a reliable choice for drilling into plastic, providing clean and accurate holes while minimising the risk of damage to the material.
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Frequently asked questions
Spur-point drill bits, also known as dowel bits, are best suited for drilling holes in plastic. Auger drill bits are ideal for softer plastics but can also be used on harder plastics. Diamond-coated drill bits are the most expensive but are also the most durable and can drill through metal and glass.
Drill bits for plastic are available in a variety of sizes. It's best to consult a professional before starting your project.
While drilling through plastic can be done using any power drill, it’s important to have the correct drill bits so you don’t chip or crack the material.
