Drilling bulkheads in Acrylic

[jeffberg]

I have drilled all the bulkheads in my acrylic sump and it was a real chore. It was only 1/2" and now I am ready to drill my 300 gallon tank out of 3/4". I have new carbide hole saws from work and am taking my time but the drill constantly gets into a bind and wants to chip the acrylic. I have read a lot of info and am fairly handy; however I am looking for any helpful hints before I drill the tank. Thanks Jeff

[FishTruck]

I have never done anything that thick. I thought I read about someone using wax to minimize the heat / binding issue.

[Elliott]

I drilled all the bulkheads in my 3/4",. 300g tank. I laid down 1/4" plywood and taped it in place with duck tape. then used a hand held drill press from HD that attaches to a hand drill and went real slow. the plywood acts as a template and hold the bit in place preventing kicking and chipping of acrylic, and the drill press keeps the bit steady and aligned properly, was not difficult.