What is a Pilot Hole in Welding?

A pilot hole is a small hole that is drilled at the edge of a plate in order to start a plasma arc cut.

What are pilot holes and why are they necessary?

The pilot hole helps to ensure that the plasma arc cut starts in the correct location and that the cut is straight.

Pilot holes are especially important when cutting large plates or plates with complex shapes. They can also be used to start a cut in the middle of a plate.

Should I drill a pilot hole in steel?

Pilot holes are typically drilled using a drill bit that is smaller in diameter than the plasma torch. This allows the plasma torch to be positioned close to the edge of the plate without touching it.

When cutting plates with a pilot hole, it is important to make sure that the pilot hole is perpendicular to the surface of the plate. If the pilot hole is not perpendicular, the plasma arc cut may not start in the correct location or may be crooked.

What is a pilot hole used for?

Pilot holes can also be used for other purposes, such as starting a waterjet cut or a plasma gouging operation.

What is the difference between a pilot hole and a shank hole?

A pilot hole is a small hole that is drilled at the edge of a plate in order to start a plasma arc cut.
A shank hole is a larger hole that is drilled in the middle of a plate in order to accommodate the shank of a bolt or screw.