Can I Drill Chrome Steel?

[richkl]

Can a mere mortal with a simple drill press make small (1/16" - 1/8") holes up to 3/4" deep in either chrome steel balls- Chrome Steel AISI 52100 or carbon steel balls- Carbon Steel Reflective Finish, ASTM A29 from Small Parts?

If so what type drill bits would you suggest? Can I find or make a wooden template to drill through the center of the ball?

Thanks,
Richard

 

[t.ruckus.rex]

Are these hardened? If so you will need a carbide drill, flood with oil (you can use squirt bottle).

 

[burnin53]

I have a set of bits called "Big Dogs",supposed to be able to drill almost anything,even glass.
I do know from experience that they go through spring steel like butter.
I'm guessing they would probably work well on the material you're describing.
Made in U.S.A. also.

 

[retDAC]

I have a set of bits called "Big Dogs",supposed to be able to drill almost anything,even glass.
I do know from experience that they go through spring steel like butter.
I'm guessing they would probably work well on the material you're describing.

Ran a search. Is it "Big Dogs" or "Bad Dog"?

 

[burnin53]

Sorry,it is Bad Dogs.

 

[gloveman132]

Since this is a onetime operation, I suggest buying a cobalt or solid carbide bit for the job. You can get them at use-enco.com or mscdirect.com or a bunch of other places.

You don't need a whole set of expensive bits if this is a one off deal.

Let us know how you make out.

 

[rsanter]

is the base metal hardened like a ball bearing or is it just the crome that is hard on what you want to drill?
I recomend that you take a small grinder ball bit and grind a small spot where you want to drill to make a flat-ish spot and to get through the crome

bob