[ColbyGore]

I am drilling 304 Stainless with a 7/32 Diameter Drill 3 and a half inches deep. I am totally struggling, breaking multiple tools. We first tried 1350 RPM and 5.2IPM plunge, then tried 450 RPM at 1.5 IPM, with even less success. Both times we tried to use a 1mm peck, does anyone have any tips?

[jaibros]

Here are a few tips that may help improve your drilling performance:

Lubrication: When drilling stainless steel, it is essential to use a lubricant to reduce friction and heat. You can try using a cutting fluid or a spray mist lubricant.

Cobalt-coated drills: Consider using cobalt-coated drills, as they tend to perform better when drilling stainless steel.

Tool geometry: Make sure the drill geometry is suitable for drilling stainless steel. You may need to use a specific drill geometry for stainless steel, such as a 135-degree split-point drill.

Feed rate: You may need to adjust the feed rate and RPM to find the optimal setting for your material and tool. You may also try using a reduced feed rate for the first inch or two of the hole to minimize stress on the tool.

Coolant delivery: Ensure that the coolant is delivered effectively to the cutting zone. You can use a high-pressure coolant system to increase coolant delivery.

Chip evacuation: Make sure the chips are being evacuated effectively. You may need to use a different type of cutting tool, such as a gun drill, to improve chip evacuation.

Tool coatings: Consider using a coated tool, such as a TiN-coated drill, to improve tool life.

https://jaibros.com/products/u-drill1-mm