Thanks everyone for the suggestions. I have two 1/2" bits that I was
alternating between and both seem to be fairly sharp. The newest bit I've
tried is from an assortment type kit from Home Depot, Blue M-something. I
do think the rpm's are definitely to high on my drill press. I even had a
tough time drilling a 1/2" hole through 1/2" aluminum. I'll give it a shot
at the lowest speed and see what happens. I think if I can get some 1/2"
holes drilled then I should be good with making some slots with the jig saw
or dremel even though the cutting torch is much more fun.

Now if I can just get my concept to work, this will be prototype #2 as
prototype #1 was chain drive and the torque is too high for the roller
clutches I was using and keeps ripping the insides out of em. Gonna possibly
try direct drive on the new one. I can go into more detail on my project if
anyone is interested in providing opinions.

Thanks,

Mark



"Rod" wrote in message
...

I'm working with 2" angle iron from home depot making a frame that will
support a dc winch motor for rolling a pool cover onto a spool. I'm having
a hard time with drilling and cutting slots.

I'm trying to drill several 1/2" holes using a bench drill press. Using
pilot holes I'm able to work my way up to 3/8" holes with no problem but
as soon as I go for the 1/2" bit it just spins and spins and doesn't want
to cut anymore. I end up forcing it down pretty hard to get through and it
takes for ever, what's the trick?


The next question that I had was, I need to cut some slots into the angle
also, so that the dc motor that I'm mounting can be adjusted a little,
I've been using a cutting torch to cut some slots but with my skills they
come out extremely messy, any good advice or ways to cut these with
standard tools? (drill, jig saw, sawzall)?

Thanks for any help.


Mark