How To Cut A 3 4 Inch Hole In Sheet Metal

Thick using a ferrous metal cutting blade.

How to cut a 3 4 inch hole in sheet metal. Then grip the saw with both hands and push the blade through the metal to cut it. You ll need a drill sheet metal snips a start collar. Next use a compass to outline the edge of the hole. Use a scrap of plywood as a backer for the hole saw s pilot bit and to protect your work surface.

In contrast to how twist and step drill bits operate hole saws work by cutting out the edges of an opening. If your project requires cutting a hole in the center of sheet metal draw it on the metal as you would any other cut line. Start by taping both sides of the sheet metal directly over the line you want to cut and clamp the metal to a work station so it doesn t move. To cut straight lines use an electric saw.

The instructions of my aprilaire 600 humidifier ask to drill a 3 4 inch hole into the sheet metal to install the control unit. At first locate the center of the whole. Like twist bits hole saws chuck right into your drill and will cut through thin gauge sheet metals like aluminum and steel. Use your center punch to strike at the center of the hole.

Cut metal with your circular saw. Then create a pilot hole within the penciled circle using a power drill. In our test it cut through rebar like a hot knife through butter. Now it s time to use that center punch.

Put your ink to the use and mark the hole center. You can cut mild steel up to about 3 8 in. For thin sheets of metal you can use tin snips to cut through it. For large holes a hole saw gets the job done cleanly and quickly.

This will create dimples in the sheet. I don t even have a drill bit that big. In this video we show you the best and safest way to cut a round hole into a can or rectangular duct.