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Calculating Spindle Speed for Drilling
Using the Drill Bit Speed Chart
The chart shown in Figure 33 is intended as a guide only. Always follow the manufacturer's speed recommendations if provided with your drill bits, cutters, or hole saws. Exceeding the recommended speeds may be dangerous to the operator.
The speeds shown here are intended to get you started. The optimum speed will always depend on various factors, including tool diameter, drilling pressure, material hardness, material quality, and desired finish.
Often, when drilling materials other than wood, some type of lubrication is necessary.
Lubrication Suggestions
Wood | None |
Plastics | Soapy Water |
Brass | |
Aluminum | |
Mild Steel |
Larger bits turning at slower speeds tend to grab the workpiece aggressively. This can result in the operator's hand being pulled into the bit or the workpiece being thrown with great force. Always clamp the workpiece to the table to prevent injuries.
Twist/Brad Point Drill Bits | Soft Wood | Hard Wood | Plastic | Brass | Aluminum | Mild Steel |
1/16" – 3/16" | 3000 | 2500 | 2500 | 2500 | 3000 | 2500 |
13/64" – 3/8" | 2000 | 1500 | 2000 | 1250 | 2500 | 1250 |
25/64" – 5/8" | 1500 | 750 | 1500 | 750 | 1500 | 600 |
11/16" – 1" | 750 | 500 | 1000 | 400 | 1000 | 350 |
Spade/Forstner Bits | Soft Wood | Hard Wood | Plastic | Brass | Aluminum | Mild Steel |
1/4" – 1/2" | 2000 | 1500 |
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9/16" – 1" | 1500 | 1250 |
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1000 | 750 |
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500 | 350 |
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Hole Saws | Soft Wood | Hard Wood | Plastic | Brass | Aluminum | Mild Steel |
1/2" – 7/8" | 500 | 500 | 600 | 600 | 600 | 500 |
1" – | 400 | 400 | 500 | 500 | 500 | 400 |
2" – | 300 | 300 | 400 | 400 | 400 | 300 |
3" – | 200 | 200 | 300 | 300 | 300 | 200 |
4" – 5" | 100 | 100 | 200 | 200 | 200 | 100 |
Rosette Cutters | Soft Wood | Hard Wood | Plastic | Brass | Aluminum | Mild Steel |
Carbide Insert Type | 350 | 250 |
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1800 | 500 |
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Tenon/Plug Cutters | Soft Wood | Hard Wood | Plastic | Brass | Aluminum | Mild Steel |
3/8" – 1/2" | 1200 | 1000 |
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5/8" – 1" | 800 | 600 |
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Figure 33. Drill bit speed chart.
Model G0705 (Mfg. since 09/09) |