How to Cut a Precise 2.75" hole in 1/2" Mild Steel Plate

[Travelover]

..............[snip].....
A buddy of mine has a jig to fit backing plates to oddball axles, it works great, I will take a pic of it next time I am there....

Thanks, I'd like to see it.

 

[Brad_Blazer]

Nice work getting the plates made. A few suggestions for next time:
1. You don't even need a pilot bit when using a hole saw in the lathe or even a drill press with the work piece firmly clamped. (Of course it can be handy for positioning)

2. Drill a 3/8" or so hole tangent to the inside edge to allow chips to escape when using a hole saw on thicker material.

3. Use a short, heavy center drill to start holes on a lathe. Regular bits tend to wander as the hole starts.

 

[Travelover]

Nice work getting the plates made. A few suggestions for next time:
1. You don't even need a pilot bit when using a hole saw in the lathe or even a drill press with the work piece firmly clamped. (Of course it can be handy for positioning)

2. Drill a 3/8" or so hole tangent to the inside edge to allow chips to escape when using a hole saw on thicker material.

3. Use a short, heavy center drill to start holes on a lathe. Regular bits tend to wander as the hole starts.

Thanks for the excellent suggestions.