Cutting hole in stainless steel sink

[rcs]

Hi
What is the best way to cut a hole in a SS sink for the tap? I've seen hole cutters which use a shear action and a through bolt but don't know what they're called.
Many Thanks
rcs

 

[JohnD]

sheet metal hole punch?

But be aware that stainless steel is very hard so make sure the tool you buy is not sold "for mild steel and brass" which are easier to work.

 

[enfoiwnrfowneof]

ikea sell one - i think its called 'fixa'. it took us three hole cutters and 2 sinks to finally cut a hole through the sink though. very hard work.

 

[cozzmic]

Brand new bi metal holesaw with cutting paste/oil, battery drill and off you go.
I thought it would take ages but was done in a matter of minutes.
Watch the sharp edges.

 

[giblets]

The cutter you mean are called Qmax and are available from

http://www.lawson-his.co.uk/scripts/products.php?cat=Hole Cutters

You will need a very sharp (brand new) drill for the pilot hole and you will need to centre punch the hole before drilling the pilot otherwise it will skid all over the place

 

[rcs]

Thanks for the replies. Don't know if q-max will cut stainless but will try and let you know.
Cheers
rcs

 

[giblets]

Qmax will cut stainless steel sinks. I have used them to install the small filtered water type taps on several occassions.

 

[Agile]

The Q-Max will only cut SS if they are in very good condition and its best to lubricate the cutting part and the thread.

Its possible to buy TC tipped metal drills which are fine for SS and c.i.. These are NOT masonry drills!!!

I have not tried it but a diamond bur in a Dremmel style drill should work and could be used to make non circular holes too.

Tony

 

[giblets]

The Q-Max will only cut SS if they are in very good condition and its best to lubricate the cutting part and the thread.

I had assumed the OP would be buying a new cutter so should be in good condition, no?

Good tip about the lubrication though - cheers, Tony.

 

[timmy74]

ikea sell one - i think its called 'fixa'. it took us three hole cutters and 2 sinks to finally cut a hole through the sink though. very hard work.

been there took me nearly an hour customer said he'd cut the utility one out said it took him 30 mins with a ratchet.. i thought get on with it

 

[rcs]

Being a Saturday and all the good tool stores closed, I decided to use the Dremel option which worked with no problems. Tap now fitted and Wife off my case, lol!
rcs