Spade bits for drilling aluminum?

[RatLabGuy]

need to drill soem holes n 1" thick Al stock.
All i have for 5/8" is a spade bit... will that work or will it just chew the crap out of it?

 

[98xjjeep]

Chew the crap out of it. I would just get new cheap bit made for metal. Since its aluminum you can get away with a cheap one.

 

[Ron]

Aluminum while soft doesnt drill real well it tends clog up bits.

Hole saw will be your friend here

 

[lbyota85]

Aluminum while soft doesnt drill real well it tends clog up bits.
Hole saw will be your friend here

Depends on the grade, 6061 drills fabulous. Just go to Lowes and buy a bit. I work with alu. every day and a hole saw that small going through 1" of material will bring the suck.

 

[catfishblues]

Well, having used spade bits on steel before, I'd say it would probably do it. Might not be much fun getting to the bottom of the hole, but if it's just one or two, go for it. Take your time and use plenty of lube. Aluminum doesn't necessarily "clog up" bits, but it galls on the cutting edge or in the flutes if it's run too hot, too fast, or without lubrication. I'd use motor oil to lube this one, either with the spade bit or if you decide to buy a bit for the job. It sticks better and won't evap as quickly.