Drilling in porcelain stoneware
Drilling in fine stoneware should be carried out thoroughly, otherwise mistakes can be made that can cause high additional costs.
Porcelain stoneware is one of the most popular materials for indoor and outdoor tiles and terrace slabs. It is characterized by its extreme strength, which is achieved during the firing process.
- kaolin
- feldspar
- clay and quartz
are burned at high heat to form a hard slab, from which fine stoneware tiles and patio slabs are made.
The extremely hard material requires a high-quality drill bit to drill into fine stoneware
Porcelain stoneware has a hardness of 6-9 on the MOHS hardness scale, with only diamond being even harder with a rating of 10.
The use of high-quality diamond drill bits is recommended for drilling in porcelain stoneware. iynx Tools manufactures diamond drill bits in various diameters that are specially designed for drilling in porcelain stoneware.
Exception: With thin fine stoneware tiles, a carbide drill with extra hardened and ground cutting edges can also be used. The carbide drill is cheaper compared to the diamond drill and drills fewer holes. However, it is only available in diameters of 5 mm - 14 mm for the drill.
Drilling in fine stoneware - drill bit overview
Various drill bit types and diameters are available for drilling in fine stoneware:
- Diamond drill bits for drills and cordless screwdrivers: 6 mm - 14 mm
- Diamond burs for the angle grinder: 6 mm - 130 mm diameter
- Carbide drills with HEX shank: 6 mm - 14 mm
Good to know: According to Isaak Innenausbau, a conventional masonry or tile drill is often not suitable for drilling fine stoneware.
Drilling in porcelain stoneware - A guide
Once you have selected the correct drill bit, you can begin the drilling process. To do this, follow the steps below:
- Mark the spot where you want to drill the hole.
- If possible, drill a light pilot hole with a carbide tile drill bit.
- Clamp the diamond drill for porcelain stoneware.
- Start drilling at low RPM.
- Increase the speed and perform slight pendulum movements.
- Drill carefully and carefully through the tile.
More advice on drilling hard tiles
Summary Drilling in porcelain stoneware
Drilling in fine stoneware is no problem with the right drill bit. It is important to start slowly and only drill as fast as needed to conserve the bit. If there are chips after drilling, they can be carefully ground off with a diamond grinding pad or a diamond cutter .
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I drill porcelain stoneware with a conventional drill?
No, porcelain stoneware is too hard for conventional drills. It is recommended to use special diamond burs or carbide burs with extra hardened cutting edges.
2. Is drilling difficult in porcelain stoneware?
With the right drill and the right technique, drilling in porcelain stoneware is not difficult. However, it requires some patience and care.
3. Where can I buy high-quality diamond drill bits for porcelain stoneware?
You can purchase high-quality diamond drill bits for porcelain stoneware from iynx Tools. They offer a wide range of drill bits in different diameters.
4. How can I avoid chipping when drilling in porcelain stoneware?
To avoid chipping, start slowly, drill at low speed, and use gentle weaving motions. Also, use good quality drill bits and keep the drill bit perpendicular to the tile.
5. Are there alternative methods to drilling in porcelain stoneware?
Yes, there are alternative methods such as grinding or milling with diamond tools. However, these methods are more suitable for minor corrections and repairs.