What is the advisable starting method when drilling into a workpiece?

When drilling into a workpiece, starting with a slow feed is advisable for several reasons. A slow feed helps to ensure better control of the drill bit, allowing it to penetrate the material without excessive force that can cause the bit to wander or dull quickly. This controlled approach reduces the risk of damaging the workpiece or the drill bit itself, particularly when beginning the drilling process on harder materials.

Moreover, a slower feed rate allows for better chip removal, which is crucial in preventing the drill from binding or overheating. When the drill bit is introduced to the material gradually, it creates a cleaner hole and minimizes the likelihood of lacerating or tearing the workpiece, which can happen if a faster feed rate is used.

In contrast, fast feed may lead to a lack of precision and increased wear on the tools, while no feed would not accomplish the task of drilling at all. Moderate feed could work under certain conditions but does not provide the same level of control and precision as a slow feed during the initial drilling stage. Therefore, starting with a slow feed is the most effective method for achieving accurate and clean results in drilling operations.