When drilling hard materials such as corrosion-resistant steel and titanium, what speed should the drill operate?

When drilling hard materials like corrosion-resistant steel and titanium, the drill should operate at a lower speed than when drilling aluminum. This is because hard metals require less cutting speed to effectively remove material without causing excessive wear on the drill bit or overheating the metal being worked on.

Drilling at high speeds can lead to increased friction and heat, which can result in tool damage or workpiece distortion. The slower speeds allow for better chip removal, reduce the risk of work hardening the material, and improve the overall quality of the hole being drilled. Proper speed settings help to maintain the integrity of both the drill bit and the material being drilled and ensure a more efficient cutting process.

While it's important to consider the specific type of material and any manufacturer recommendations, as a general practice, lower speeds are favored for hard materials compared to softer materials like aluminum.