drilling CAST IRON..need your advice

[albany_nomads]

Hi Guys..got a question in regards to drilling CAST IRON
Ive got a 800mm diameter domed 9mm thick cast iron fire pit..its great..BUT when it rains it fills up with water..I dont want to have to make a lid for it so the next easiest solution is to drill a hole in the bottom so the water can drain.
I cant say I have ever drilled cast iron..any secrets or problems I should know about.
The last thing I want is it to crack (if thats possible)
So do I drill fast or slow speed, are there special drill bits or will normal high speed steel bits do

Much appreciated in advance
Kind Regards John...Albany Nomads

[albany_nomads]

Done... Slow speed, started with small bit worked up to larger bit with lubricant ... Just like drilling std steel


John

[Simoncurly]

As you have found out grey iron is pretty free machining and can generally be done without lube at lower speeds

cheers Simon

[achjimmy]

Yep no lubricant for cast iron, it's machined dry.