What Is a Hole Saw?
A hole saw is a tool that attaches to an electric drill or impact driver for drilling holes in materials like wood or thin metal sheets. It features a circular, zigzag blade that faces the target material. The hole saw rotates with the electric drill, drilling holes more quickly than a standard drill. It can create larger holes, up to a maximum diameter of about 60 mm. Since the resulting hole is slightly larger than its diameter, it’s important to adjust the hole size based on the material and other factors.
Uses of Hole Saws
Hole saws are primarily used for drilling into materials such as wood, FRP, iron, and metal plates, including aluminum.
They are crucial in electrical work for drilling holes in metals and other materials, including holes for pulling boxes in exposed piping, cable entry points for power distribution and freestanding boards, and box connectors. Most commonly, they are used for creating entry points for electrical cables.
Hole saws are also utilized in plumbing work, including water and gas piping, as well as air conditioning installation.
Due to their ease of use, they are also popular DIY tools in homes equipped with electric drills.
Principle of Hole Saws
The operating principle of a hole saw is similar to that of an electric drill or impact driver. The circular blade rotates to cut out the target material. A hole saw comprises a die-cast, a blade, and a center drill. To use a hole saw, the appropriate size blade is attached to the die-cast and mounted on the electric drill. The target material is secured, and the hole saw’s center drill is aligned with the hole’s center for cutting. Hole saws are not very thick, making them unsuitable for drilling into boards thicker than 40 mm. It’s important to note that the mounting part differs depending on whether it’s attached to an electric drill or an impact driver.
There are three main types of hole saws:
1. Hole Saws for Woodworking
These are designed for cutting wood and are characterized by their numerous blades.
2. Bimetal Hole Saws
Made of more durable steel compared to woodworking saws, these can cut wood, plastic, and other materials.
3. Carbide Hole Saws
Featuring a thicker blade, these are stronger and capable of cutting through hard metals, including stainless steel and steel plates.