What tool to use to cut a notch in a steel beam

[Yukster]

I have a hifi rack made from steel beams, see below. I'd like to cut a few notches to improve my cable management. I'd use a file but space for running a file back and forth is restricted so I thought it might be an idea to use a tool like a rasp drill bit that fits for into a cordless drill. It's pretty thick steel. What tool would you recommend that would do the job?

 

[blup]

A multi tool or jig saw, with suitable metal cutting blades, even a hacksaw though it will take a long time. If it is high tensile steel, a grinder.

Blup

 

[Yukster]

A multi tool or jig saw, with suitable metal cutting blades, even a hacksaw though it will take a long time. If it is high tensile steel, a grinder.

Blup

Is like to cut a notch where the red dot is. A saw or a file might not work and will take ages. A grinder would work but I don't have one. Is there a specific bit that fits in a drill that could grind a notch?

 

[Harry Bloomfield]

Is there a specific bit that fits in a drill that could grind a notch?

To grind a notch use a grind-er. Designed for grinding, very effective and they are not expensive.

 

[blup]

Is like to cut a notch where the red dot is. A saw or a file might not work and will take ages. A grinder would work but I don't have one. Is there a specific bit that fits in a drill that could grind a notch?

View attachment 244487

You will need a grinder, mains grinders are cheaper than cordless. A milling bit won't work.

Blup

 

[Mr Chibs]

If that’s your amp (proper job) you need to buy a grinder

 

[Yukster]

You will need a grinder, mains grinders are cheaper than cordless. A milling bit won't work.

Blup

I'll do that. Thanks!

 

[^woody^]

Why not drill a hole?

Or two, or several, and if need be, square it off with a file

 

[Yukster]

Why not drill a hole?

Or two, or several, and if need be, square it off with a file

If I drill it do I need to use oil?

 

[^woody^]

No, just a slow speed.

Centre punch the holes first

 

[Yukster]

Why not drill a hole?

Or two, or several, and if need be, square it off with a file

Holes drilled. It came out ok in the end. Glad I didn't have to use a grinder which could have been messy in a small space and expensive equipment close by. Going to get a rasp tomorrow. Any of the rasps sold in Screwfix any good? Happy to get it elsewhere if I can get a better one that will cut into the steel more easily

 

[^woody^]

Rasps are for wood!

You need a file

 

[Yukster]

I thoughts files and rasps were synonymous. Doh. Any of these files or these files good?

 

[Yukster]

I got a set of files but unsure if I got the right ones. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Bahco-47708-File-Set-Pieces/dp/B000X2B16M
A
re these files or rasps? description is unclear...

 

[Deleted member 174758]

They are files. If your intention is to turn a round hole into a square one, aren't they going to be too big?