If you are trying to drill holes in 316 plate, the likelihood is that you will have problems. I believe it's due to plate being made to be weldable, whereas 316 bar is made to be machineable by the addition of (I think) a dollop of sulphur.
A million (well 20) years ago this exact problem was encountered where I worked, trying to make some aero dynamic fins out of 316 plate, virtually impossible to machine. The material supplier was contacted and he said (quote)…"….you're trying to machine 316 plate???, can I be the supplier of your cutters??". It was then explained about the use of sulphur. We got some bar and as the problems went away, we did have a lot more swarf to dispose of though!!
Hope this helps.
cheers
Bill