Letter 41097

Dissolving aluminum in internal passages of carbide drill bits [Illinois] 

June 12, 2006

Does anyone have experience with dissolving aluminum that has plugged the passages of coolant thru solid carbide drills. The passages are .020 diameter and the plug withstands 1000psi.

Bob Willi
Mfg. Eng. - Peoria, IL, USA

1 cup of red devil lye to a gal of water. Can be warmed to about 140F for faster action. Higher temp generates a caustic steam. I would use a pyrex glass container. Periodically remove and rinse. It may not be a fast process, but it is equipment safe. Use face mask, safety shield and rubber gloves.

James Watts
- FL

Alternatively, diluted 50% muriatic acid can also be used without appreciable harm to carbide. More obnoxious but faster.

Guillermo Marrufo
Monterrey, NL, Mexico

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