How to Drill in the Center of a Tube

Water and gas pipes frequently need to be drilled or cut to add junctions.

The problem with drilling into a tube -- whether it's PVC or metal -- is the shape of the tube. The roundness makes it hard to keep the drill bit in place long enough for it to bite into the tube surface. As a result, the drill bit can slip, either scoring the tube or scratching it. The way to avoid this is to make a dent or mark in the tube surface so the drill bit stays put. Then it can be properly drilled.

Things You'll Need

• Permanent marker
• Hammer
• Metal punch
• Power drill
• Drill bit

Instructions

1. Mark the point in the tube where it needs to be drilled with a permanent marker. Position a metal punch on that mark, holding it with one hand. Hit the punch with a hammer hard enough to make a small dent in the pipe surface.

2. Put the hammer and punch down and position a power drill and metal-drilling bit onto the pipe surface. Place the end of the drill bit attached to the drill right on the dent mark made by the punch.

3. Turn the drill on and hold it in place with pressure, pushing the drill bit into the pipe. Continue drilling until the bit goes through the pipe's surface. Pull it in and out a few times while spinning to remove any leftover swarth or hanging bits.

4. Remove the drill bit from the pipe. Turn the drill off. Use the drilled pipe segment as needed.

Tips & Warnings

• Sometimes a metal pipe needs two or three good hammer whacks on the punch to make a mark. Don't feel peevish to hit it hard. One good point is all that is needed for a metal-drilling bit to bite into.

• Wear gloves and goggles to protect your eyes and fingers in case the drill slips while drilling.

References

• Rustic Girls: Drilling a Pipe
• Corner Hardware: Drilling Tips
• University of Virginia Tool Shop: Hand Drill