Drilling 316 Stainless Steel

Drilling 316 Stainless Steel

This topic has 4 replies, 5 voices, and was last updated 10 June 2025 at 08:17 by Nicholas Farr.

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9 June 2025 at 21:45 #802229
ianj
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@ians
Hello All.

I have a project using 316 Stainless steel flat bar 8mm X 30mm which calls for 9mm holes to be drilled and counter bored 12mm diameter by 6mm deep. I have solid carbide 9mm drill and 12mm endmill for the counter bore. I’m aware that stainless steel can be difficult to machine and work harden. I’ve tried Google but most advice is CNC related.

I’m asking :

1, Should I pilot drill for the 9mm hole ?

2, What RPM for the 9mm hole and 12mm counter bore?

I will be using my Tom Senior milling machine,

Thank You

Ian
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9 June 2025 at 23:28 #802242
bernard towers
Participant
@bernardtowers37738
Definitely drill in steps and slow speed with good cutting oil(rocol) and no real need for carbide drills. Been doing the same thing myself today and machining 316 with HSS, just keep the speed down.
10 June 2025 at 06:59 #802257
Fulmen
Participant
@fulmen
I cross-drilled a few hundred A4 machine bolts last week, 3mm hole through 16mm bolts without breaking a single drill. The secret is low speeds (around 10m/min) and frequent sharpening.
10 June 2025 at 07:02 #802260
derek hall 1
Participant
@derekhall1
Try using paraffin as a cutting fluid as an aid to drilling 316 stainless steel.
10 June 2025 at 08:17 #802272
Nicholas Farr
Participant
@nicholasfarr14254
Hi, I would put a 3 or 4mm pilot hole in first and then the 9mm, keeping the speed to about 300 to 400 RPM with cutter fluid/compound. Don’t try to force the drills through, but use a moderate pressure, don’t allow them to just rub. Cobalt drills would be my choice.

Regards Nick.
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