[APD] Re: Drilling tanks

[BAshcraft at BrashearLP_com]

> Date: Tue, 09 Mar 2004 18:45:46 -0500
> From: Bill Wichers <billw at waveform_net>

> For most people who only need a few holes drilled it is going to be 
easier 
> and safer (from the tank's perspective :-) to have the holes drilled at 
a 
> glass shop. 


Most LFS's that sell tanks will drill it for you.  Though, at $15-$20 per 
hole, the cost will quickly surpass the cost of the diamond bit.  A 45mm 
bit (1 3/4") is less than $40 from here
http://www.khue.com/dept/grind/dbits.htm


>You really need a diamond coring bit and a drill press or 
> drilling jig that can keep the bit steady to ensure good results. 


A 3/4" board with the appropriate size hole cut in it and clamped to the 
glass works very well for a drilling jig.


>The diamond coring bits are usually run at relatively low speed for a 
longish 
> period of time to drill the hole, and are usually used with a liquid 
> coolant/lubricant to keep the bit from seizing or overheating. 


That depends on your definition of "low speed" and "longish period of 
time".  If I remember correctly, the recommended speed on a 45mm bit is 
about 800 rpm.  Water can be used for coolant and it took 4 or 5 minutes 
to drill a piece of 3/8" thick glass.  This includes stopping to add 
coolant every 15-20 seconds.  The coolants purpose is ultimately to keep 
the bit from overheating, but more importantly, to flush away glass 
particle and keep the bit from clogging and causing the high heat.


>The equipment is too expensive for occasional DIY use.
> 
>          -Bill


For one time use... maybe.  My bit paid for itself and still saved me $60 
on the first tank.

Bob Ashcraft
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