Drilling a hole in a metal --probably aluminum-- garbage can
The trash can is most likely galvanized steel. Wear eye protection and use the drill at a slow speed. Start with a small drill bit and work your way up to the desired hole size. If the bit gets hot lubricate with a drop or two of virtually any oil (really -olive, vegetable, motor, it shouldn't matter.) The first hole drilled will be the thoughest since the bit will try to "walk." Subsequetly larger holes will center themselves on the first hole.
alias said:
The trash can is most likely galvanized steel. Wear eye protection and use the drill at a slow speed. Start with a small drill bit and work your way up to the desired hole size. If the bit gets hot lubricate with a drop or two of virtually any oil (really -olive, vegetable, motor, it shouldn't matter.) The first hole drilled will be the thoughest since the bit will try to "walk." Subsequetly larger holes will center themselves on the first hole.
Agree with alias - I would add that you can minimize "walking" by starting with a indent point with center punch. There are plenty of instructional "how to"s on You-tube.
Good point. (Pun?)
And if you don't have a center punch, a good whack with a hammer to a phillips screwdriver will create an x shaped indentation that will work in a pinch.
waxwings said:
alias said:
The trash can is most likely galvanized steel. Wear eye protection and use the drill at a slow speed. Start with a small drill bit and work your way up to the desired hole size. If the bit gets hot lubricate with a drop or two of virtually any oil (really -olive, vegetable, motor, it shouldn't matter.) The first hole drilled will be the thoughest since the bit will try to "walk." Subsequetly larger holes will center themselves on the first hole.
Agree with alias - I would add that you can minimize "walking" by starting with a indent point with center punch. There are plenty of instructional "how to"s on You-tube.
Great, thank you! I'm not sure how big the hole will need to be because I don't have instructions in front of me, but I'm trying to attach a device that is suppose to prevent raccoons from getting in.
Your really making this more complicated then it needs to be. Just ensure you have the correct drill bit and eye protection and your good to go. The metal on the can is so thin you will drill thru in seconds. Instead of adding a lubricant which will guarantee slippage, just start slower with your drill or use the center punch for a lead.
http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Use-a-Center-Punch-With-Metal/?ALLSTEPS
Most kits and HD or Lowes will have a few diff sizes in Wood, Metal, & Masonry included in the most common sizes.
How about reporting back (assuming you still have enough fingers to type)?
I've been looking for an instructional video or even written instructions, but I am not coming up with anything. Before I try this, I'm wondering if it's ok to use a regular drill and if it's dangerous --metal flying everywhere? Appreciate any suggestions!