Resources for Stainless Steel Raw Materials

If you're going to work with raw stainless steel materials, you'll want to make sure you have the right tools and supplies. These can include cutting implements, welding equipment and basic hand tools. Machining raw steel can be difficult for tools due to its superior strength. Often, metalworking tools are made of metal and coated with a finish that improves tool strength and toughness, making it easier to work with steel.

Whether you're altering an item made of stainless steel or creating something from stainless steel sheets, you'll need the correct tools to get your job done. The strength your tools will need to be depends on what grade the metal is and how thick the stainless steel raw material is.

1. Stainless steel fabrication tools tend to be more expensive than wood-working tools or other types of tools because they must be stronger.

2. When using welding equipment and other supplies for stainless steel raw materials, always follow all recommended safety precautions.

3. Drills for cutting raw stainless steel should be coated with titanium so they are strong enough to handle the job.

Get the right cutting tools for raw stainless steel

Saws and other blades used to cut raw steel must generally be coated with a diamond-like coating or other hardener to be useful. This allows the blade to cut though stainless steel, but it's also more expensive. After repeated uses, the coating may wear away along the blade, leaving the softer inside metal exposed. This can impair cutting, so reapplying the tool's coating periodically is a must.

Use welding equipment to attach and bend raw steel

You'll need welding equipment if you plan to mold or attach raw steel pieces together. This type of equipment usually includes welding gloves, apron and hood, along with a blowtorch and assorted accessories. Depending on the type of welding you wish to do, you may need a gas supply or an electrical power source. Lasers can also be used to weld metal quickly and efficiently for high-volume operations.

Buy a drill to make holes in raw material for stainless steel

Drilling raw stainless steel materials requires a carbide or titanium-coated drill bit, along with a center punch to make the initial indentation. These tools are generally more expensive than traditional drill bits because of their special coatings. Often, cutting metals like raw steel or stainless steel requires lubrication to prevent overheating and scorch marks.

• If you're having trouble cutting, drilling or welding raw stainless steel, try asking your stainless steel provider what they use. Often, they can recommend the best tools to get the job done, allowing you to focus on what's important: building your project.