Drill Bits 101 – Top 3 Things to Know – TYPES OF DRILL BITS
When it comes to choosing the right drill bit for the job, there are three things to consider; material, coating, and the geometry of the tool. We’ll break it all down in a concise way to help clear things up to save you some time.
1. Materials – What’s this thing made out of?
The first thing to think about is the composition of the drilling bit. There are three popular composites and they all serve a different purpose.
1a. High-Speed Steel – The Workhorse
High-Speed Steel (HSS) is the most popular drill bit material for several reasons. High-Speed Steel is readily available, and we have plenty of it right here in the United States. HSS is also extremely versatile. Manufacturers can configure an HSS drill bit for just about any application you can think of.
- Readily available and inexpensive
- Good in drill presses and forgiving in a hand-held drill gun
- Easy to resharpen
1b. M35 Cobalt vs m42 cobalt – M35 V’s M42 cobalt drill bits? Which should I buy?
A) An increasing % of cobalt has two main effects on a drill bit :-
- It enables the drill bit to drill harder metals
- It increases the brittleness of the drill bit
An M35 (5% cobalt) drill bit will drill the majority of metals most people will need to drill. The added advantage of M35 cobalt drill bits is that they can be used in a hand held drill without too much fear of breakage.
An M42 (8% cobalt) drill bit will drill harder metals however will also be more prone to breakage due to its inceased brittleness. M42 cobalt drill bits are best suited to use in a pedestal drill where direction of drilling is controlled better than a hand drill.
The added advantage of M35 cobalt drill bits is that they can be used in a hand held drill without too much fear of breakage.
An M42 (8% cobalt) drill bit will drill harder metals however will also be more prone to breakage due to its inceased brittleness.
M35 Cobalt
What Is M 35 Drill Bit?
M35 is a type of cobalt drill bit with mixing of 5% of cobalt and HSS. M35 Cobalt drill bit has a hardness of 65-67 HRC and a higher melting point of 2723 oF. Hence, M35 Cobalt drill bits are more heat resistant. Therefore, M35 cobalt drill bits are used to drill many hard materials. Due to the 5% cobalt, its physical properties and chemical properties are varied. Hence it can be used in a wide range than a regular drill bit.
M35 is a cobalt material that is used for most ITM cobalt drill bits. It has excellent resistance to abrasion and very good red-hardness for working difficult materials. M35 cobalt drill bits contain 5% cobalt, which makes them harder and more resistant to heat than HSS drill bits.
- excellent resistance to abrasion
- very good red-hardness for working difficult materials.
M42 Cobalt
What Is M 42 Drill Bit?
M35 is a type of cobalt drill bit with mixing of 8% of cobalt and HSS. M42 cobalt drill bit has a hardness of 68-70 HRC and a higher melting point of 2853 oF. Due to the 8% of cobalt, M42 is harder and more stable. Hence it can withstand higher temperatures and thrust successfully.
M42 drill bits are used in wide range than M35 drill bits. Both M35 and M42 cobalt drill bits are good for metal drilling.
M42 drill bits are made with 8% cobalt and are used for drilling harder metals. They are more brittle and prone to breakage than other drill bits. M42 drill bits are best used in a pedestal drill.
M42 Cobalt is high-speed steel with 8-10% Cobalt added in order to increase the hardness and endurance of the tool. You can pretty much expect the same characteristics as a standard HSS drill, but with increased performance across the board.
- Will outlast standard HSS tools
- Better heat and wear resistance
- Easy to resharpen
What are the Differences Between M35 Vs. M42 Drill Bits?
The main differences between M35 and M42 drill bits can be compared with cobalt percentage, melting point, heat resistance, sharpening status, durability, and the cost of the drill bit.
| Properties | M35 Drill Bit | M42 Drill Bit |
|---|---|---|
| Percentage of Cobalt | 5% | 8% |
| Melting Point (oF) | 2723 | 2853 |
| Resistant to heat | Resistant to heat but less than M42 drill bits. | Higher resistance to heat |
| Status of sharpening | Enough sharp to drill a hole in any metal. | Sharper than M35 drill bits. |
| Durability | Sharp Enough to drill a hole in any metal. | Less than M35 drill bits because of consisting of more percentage of Cobalt. |
| Cost | Little cheaper than the M42 | Expensive |
What Is Better, M35 or M42 Drill Bit?
Among M35 and M42 cobalt drill bits, M35 drill bits are suitable for drilling into materials like stainless steel, alloy steel, and other tough metals. M42 drill bits are especially well-suited for drilling into very hard and abrasive materials, including superalloys, cast iron, and high-strength steel.
M35 cobalt drill bits are more affordable than M42 drill bits, making them a cost-effective choice for general-purpose drilling tasks. M42 cobalt drill bits last longer and maintain their sharpness better than M35 bits in demanding applications.
COBALT DRILL BITS – NOT A COATING
High-speed steel is alloyed with 5-8% cobalt to create cobalt drill bits. These are the best drill bits for metal due to their high resistance to the massive heat generated when drilling through highly abrasive and/or hard materials such as treated stainless steel, titanium, and cast iron. Unlike the TiN coating, cobalt is found throughout the entire material which makes it great for high production work.
1c. Carbide – If Superman was a Drill Bit
What are Carbide Drills?
That brings us to tungsten carbide, more commonly referred to as carbide or sometimes cemented carbide. Think of it as cobalt on steroids. It’s been around for nearly one hundred years but didn’t come into widespread use as a cutting tool material until after World War II, when Kennametal founder Philip M. McKenna developed the first indexable carbide cutting tools. Since then, this extremely hard and wear-resistant material has consumed an enormous swath of the cutting tool market, drill bits included.
Since we’re comparing cobalt drills to those made of carbide, we won’t delve too deeply into the different types of carbide drills except to say that solid carbide is the closest equivalent from a size, length, and application perspective. After this come replaceable tip modular drills and indexable insert drills for larger holes (say anything above 1-1/2″ in diameter).
At 82 HRC, give or take, tungsten carbide is much harder than cobalt or HSS. This is carbide’s only Achilles’ heel—where cobalt will flex a fair amount in the face of radial cutting forces, carbide will in many cases shatter. This means that proper alignment is critical for tool life and hole accuracy (which is true of any drilling operation). And when breaking through into intersecting holes as in the manifold example just given, the feedrate should be reduced slightly until the drill stabilizes.
As with anything that offers greater performance, carbide cutting tools cost significantly more. How much more depends on the manufacturer and tool geometry, but you can figure at least twice the price for substantially greater tool life and perhaps 10-20 times the metal removal per drill.
Not only does carbide provide cutting speeds at least four to eight times that of cobalt, but far higher feedrates as well. And because carbide drills also support a feature unavailable with their cobalt cousins—coolant through-the-tool—there’s no need to peck. When coupled with high-pressure coolant (HPC), solid carbide blows the doors off traditional drills.
Solid Carbide drill bits are the most expensive but they will outlast other drill bit materials by a longshot. A Carbide drill will outlast a Cobalt drill by at least twenty times, reducing the cost-per-hole significantly.
One characteristic of Carbide is that it’s brittle, so it won’t flex. This makes Carbide a bad choice for hand drilling. If you’re running a CNC or frequently use a drilling press, this material is worth the investment.
Carbide drills allow for a Through Spindle Coolant system or TSC as it’s known. In situations where you’re drilling deep into very hard materials, the feeding of coolant through the drill allows for better chip evacuation and self-cooling. This also helps to prevent wear, which is nice since TSC drill bits are pricey.
- The most expensive in terms of up-front costs
- Has the best drill-to-hole ratio
- Can be run much faster (three to five times), decreasing the time needed to produce holes
- Provides the best heat and chip resistance
- Allows for Through Spindle Coolant system or TSC
- Will outlast M42 Cobalt by at least a factor of 10-20
2. Coatings – The protective shield!
Throw a good coating on any drill bit and you’ll completely change its characteristics. Coatings extend tool life and improve cutting performance. We’ve selected a few of the most popular coatings to keep things simple, so let’s jump in.
2a. Bright Finish
Bright Finish is a funny term because these drill bits are actually uncoated. Simply put, this keeps costs down.
- Inexpensive
- Great for drilling into low-carbon steel and aluminum.
2b. Black Oxide
Black Oxide – High speed steel bits with an added heat treatment that reduces friction between bit and workpiece. Black oxide bits have 50% longer life than standard high speed steel bits. Click here to see available sizes.
Black Oxide finishes increase lubricity which helps to resist damage from heat and corrosion. Naturally, this also extends the life of the tool. These bits are best for use on ferrous metals.
- Inexpensive
- More lubricity
- Resists oxidation
- Heat treatment means 50% longer tool life, over Bright Finish
BLACK OXIDE DRILL BITS – BASIC AND INEXPENSIVE
Manufacturers heat HSS bits to 950 degrees Fahrenheit, creating a black oxide finish that resists rust and corrosion. This reduces friction between the bit and the workpiece, thereby speeding up the drilling process. Bits made with a black oxide coating are suitable for work on steel, copper, aluminum, brass, oak, maple, MDF, pine, PVC, polycarbonate, acrylic, ABS, nylon, and composite materials.
2c. Black & Gold
Black and Gold finish drill bits resist corrosion and breakage while increasing lubricity. These bits are not prone to chipping and flaking.
- One of the most popular coatings for HSS Drills
- An excellent coating for field techs wanting an excellent all-around drill bit
2d. Titanium Nitride
TiN extends the drill life and is an excellent entry-level coating for machining needs.
- Good entry-level coating for machining
- Not meant for hard materials and high heat transfer
- Gold finish
- For mild steel
TITANIUM (OR TIN) DRILL BIT TYPES
Titanium – High speed steel bits which have been coated with titanium nitride. This special coating gives the bits a very high surface hardness to help penetrate tough materials, makes the bits highly corrosion resistant and significantly reduces friction between bit and workpiece. Titanium coated bits last up to 6X longer than standard high speed steel bits. Vermont American titanium drill bits feature the following: (1) grip tight shank for positive chuck hold, (2) titanium coating hardens bit surface or improved durability in tough, repetitive applications and acts as lubricant, requiring less torque and less heat build-up for longer bit life, (3) speed helix augers dust away from tip more quickly, reducing heat for long life and (4) 135 degree split point starts fast and reduces drill walking. Click here to see available sizes.
All of the different types of drill bits in these categories are based on High-Speed Steel (HSS), a designation you’ll often see when reading about bits. However, the treatments those HSS bits receive to make them black oxide, titanium, or cobalt make marked changes in the performance, intended use, and longevity. Learning the differences helps you avoid wasting money and using the wrong bits for the wrong materials.
Titanium drill bits are HSS bits that have been coated with titanium nitride (TiN) using a process similar to electroplating. TiN is a ceramic material that increases the surface hardness of the bit and provides a thermal barrier by reducing friction. This results in increased production rates, corrosion resistance, and a 3 to 6 times longer tool life. Titanium bits are suitable for drilling iron, steel, aluminum, magnesium, and wood.
Titanium bits are great for general-purpose drilling in a production environment because they drill quickly. The TiN coating also helps chips flow thru the flutes which is helpful because some materials – like aluminum – adhere to bits more than others. However, once the tip is dulled, it won’t regain its cutting edge without being recoated in titanium nitride. It usually makes more sense to replace rather than recoat them. So even though they are harder than cobalt, their edge is only skin-deep.
2e. Aluminum Titanium Nitride
AlTiN is a couple of steps up from TiN, with extended life and performance. An interesting charismatic is that these do not perform well on aluminum since aluminum is part of the coating.
- Excellent for wet milling of titanium and high-temp material
- Much higher heat tolerance compared to TiN and TiCN.
- Good for use applications where chipping isn’t an issue
- Not great for aluminum drilling
2f. Gold Oxide
Gold Oxide – Offers added speed and durability for general purpose drilling applications in wood, metal and plastic and drills 3x faster with speed helix. Click here to see available sizes.
3. Geometry
Geometry is just as important as the material and coating when it comes to the performance and characteristics of a drill bit. Consider that every manufacturer has its own proprietary configurations so we’ll just focus on the general aspects.
3a. Webbing
Skinny drill bits snap more easily than thick drill bits. This is where spending a little more money for heavy-duty geometry is nice. That said, there is much more to drill design than the thickness and it’s not always a priority but it is a nice thing to be aware of.
3b. Length
A shorter drill bit is more rigid which is ideal so you should always use the shortest drill possible. That said, sometimes you have to use a longer drill bit. In these instances, you should at least use the shortest flute-length (cutting portion) possible. Using a drill with an unnecessary long flute length means that you’re choosing to use a less stable drill. This is not advised. The next question to ask is, “How much flute length do I need?” The rule of thumb for determining this is to take the diameter of the drill bit, double that, and then you’ll have the minimal flute length needed above the hole for proper chip evacuation.
- Stubbies drills are great in CNC machines
- Jobbers are good for use in drill presses and in hand-held drill guns.
- There are many lengths for various applications
About flute length
- Two times the drill diameter in flute length, above the hole is enough
- Go too short and chips can pack up inside the flute, causing poor surface finish, hole size, and straightness issues. The drill can even break.
3c. Drill Point Angle
There are actually a handful of drill point angles, but 118º and 135º are the two most common. A 118º drilling point is commonly put on lower-cost, general-purpose drill bits. It’s suitable for mild steel, aluminum, and other soft metals. On the other hand, 135º is for hardened steel and other tougher materials.
118º Drill Point
- General-Purpose
- Mild steels, aluminum, and other soft metals
135º Drill Point
- Hard steels and harder, tougher materials
3d. Helix Angle (spiral angle)
A critical feature in twist drills, helix angles determine the process of chip formation. Large helix angles are good at removing soft, long-chipping materials. Small helix angles are good for the removal of hard, short-chipping materials. Note that there is some overlap in how helix angles are categorized.
10º to 29º
- Harder Steels
- Aluminum Alloys
- Good chip evacuation
- Higher fracture resistance
- Better edge strength
19º to 40º Helix Angles
- General Purpose
- Fine for most applications
27º to 45º
- Difficult materials
- Stainless steel
- Low torque requirements and cutting resistance help cut these metal types
3e. Self-Centering Split Point
This is an excellent and underappreciated feature in twist drills. A split-point drill bit prevents walking when starting a cut. Without a split-point, technicians would first need to drill pilot holes or use punches in order to start their cuts. This would, of course, take a lot more time and cut into your bottom line.
- Prevents walking, especially on a curved surface
- Split Points generate less heat and require less force
- Most Cobalt and Carbide Drills feature Split Points
- Not all HSS drill bits manufacturers feature self-centering split points since it’s more expensive to make these cuts. You get what you pay for
- Most HSS drill bit manufacturers do not offer self-centering split-points on drill sizes under 1/16”
1. Hardness
While titanium is a quite difficult product, titanium drill bits are just layered with a slim layer of titanium nitride, which deteriorates rapidly. Whereas, cobalt drill bits have a consistent focus of cobalt throughout, making them harder. Black oxide, on the other hand, is a routine HSS bit warmed to 950 Fahrenheit for black oxide coating, so it is not as difficult as titanium, not to mention cobalt drill bits.
Out of the 3, cobalt drill bits are the hardest.
2. Material
Titanium bits are made use of for drilling via iron, steel, light weight aluminum, wood, as well as magnesium.
Cobalt drill bits are utilized just for drilling with difficult product like actors iron, stainless-steel, as well as titanium. Despite the fact that cobalt bits are completely with the ability of piercing via soft product also, it is normally chosen to utilize more affordable bits for such objectives.
When it comes to piercing product, black Oxide drill bits are most flexible. Black oxide can be utilized to service wood such as oak, maple, ache, steels like steel, copper, aluminum, brass, and so on, in addition to plastic.
3. Purpose
Black oxide drill bits are the most effective general-purpose drill little bits, whereas cobalt drill little bits are the most effective expert drill little bits.
Being pocket-friendly and also budget friendly, black oxide bits offer all type of objectives as well as are the best selection for convenient amateur individuals, DIYers, or enthusiasts. Cobalt drill bits, being difficult as well as difficult, are made use of to drill with tough steel and also made use of for commercial functions.
Titanium little bits are made use of for modest drilling objectives.
4. Durability
The TiN coating on titanium drill bits obtains deteriorated gradually, reducing their longevity. Cobalt little bits, unlike titanium little bits, are not covered with cobalt. Rather, they are made from a 5-8% cobalt alloy with high-speed steel. As a result of the consistent focus of cobalt in the drill little bit, it can be developed if it sheds its side or obtains put on ahead. For this reason, cobalt little bits are a lot more resilient.
Although black oxide drill bits can likewise be re-sharpened, they can not beat cobalt little bits in longevity as a result of their firmness.
Cobalt drill little bits are the most sturdy of the 3 since of their firmness as well as toughness.
When utilized continuously on difficult product, black oxide as well as titanium drill little bits have a tendency to shed their side. On the other hand, cobalt little bits are custom made for exploration on products like actors iron, stainless-steel, and also among one of the most requiring steel, titanium.
5. Cost
Cobalt drill bits are one of the most costly, that makes them unwise for day-to-day laid-back usage. Titanium bits are likewise reasonably high valued because of the expensive titanium finishing on its surface area.
Black oxide drill bits are fairly valued, 50% even more long lasting than normal high-speed steel drill bits, as well as can be made use of for numerous objectives, making them the most effective all-purpose bits.
Black oxide drill bits win this round. They are the most affordable, most conveniently budget friendly of the 3.
Black Oxide Vs Titanium Vs Cobalt: Similarities
- Non-Corrosive
Black oxide, titanium along with cobalt drill bits are constructed from non-corrosive, rust-resistant material. - Rate
All 3 drill bits are quick. Owing to their black oxide surface, titanium covering, as well as cobalt constitution, every one of these 3 drill little bits generate minimal rubbing while exploration, which accelerates the drilling procedure to a substantial level.
Black Oxide Vs Titanium Vs Cobalt: Features And Technical Specifications
Black Oxide Drill Bits Features And Technical Specifications
Non-corrosive: When HSS drill bits are heated up to 950 Fahrenheit to produce a black oxide coating, it creates a rust-resistant product that improves the efficiency and also life of these drill bits.
Rate: The black oxide coating provides normal high-speed steel extra unbelievable rate as a result of minimal rubbing generated throughout drilling.
Sturdiness: Black oxide drill bits are 50% even more long lasting than normal drill little bits.
Convenience: Black oxide drill bits are unbelievably functional. They can rapidly pierce with wood such as oak, maple, ache, and so on, steel like steel, copper, light weight aluminum, brass, as well as plastic as in PVC, acrylic, and so on.
Re-sharpening: If the head obtains worn away, black oxide drill little bits can be conveniently re-sharpened to gain back the side.
Cost: Black oxide drill bits are extremely affordable as well as can be quickly paid for without shedding an opening in your pocket.
Straightforward: Black oxide bits are straightforward due to the fact that they are cheap and also can be utilized for different objectives. They are the very best general-purpose drill little bits that are most appropriate for newbie, novices, as well as leisure activity drove helpful individuals.
Titanium Drill Bits Features And Technical Specifications
Non-corrosive: Similar to black oxide bits, titanium drill bits are immune to rust as well as corrosion. The electroplated covering of titanium nitride (TiN) externally of titanium drill little bits convey corrosion resistance to the little bits.
Speed: The TiN coating lowers the rubbing to a minimum, enhancing its rate as well as making the exploration procedure substantially quicker.
Longevity: Titanium pierce little bits last 3 to 6 times longer than routine HSS pierce little bits.
Adaptability: Titanium pierce little bits have modest usage. They are utilized for piercing via steel in addition to timber. Nevertheless, it has a tendency to shed its side when continually made use of to pierce tough steels. It is additionally thought about to be instead expensive for drilling timber just.
Re-sharpening: Titanium drill little bits can not be re-sharpened. Because of being covered with TiN, when they shed their side, the TiN coating obtains deteriorated from their surface area. That is why it can not be honed to restore its side, till and also unless it is re-coated with titanium nitride. The procedure of re-coating is somewhat rather costly, so it is recommended to purchase a brand-new drill little bit because instance.
Cost: Although not as costly as cobalt drill little bits, titanium drill little bits are valued more than black oxides. You can go for a titanium drill little bits established if you have a wonderful spending plan and also modest demands.
Cobalt Drill Bits Features And Technical Specifications
Non-corrosive: Cobalt drill bits are made from 5 to 8% cobalt alloy with high-speed steel. This provides a high resistance from corrosion. Like black oxide as well as titanium drill bits, deterioration is not a trouble with cobalt drill bits.
Rate: Cobalt drill bits are created to drill quick.
Sturdiness: Cobalt drill bits are incredibly sturdy. They are very valued for their durability. They are much more resilient than black oxide or titanium drill bits.
Flexibility: Cobalt bits can drill via tough steel such as cast iron, titanium, and so on, because of their high resistance to the warmth created while drilling right into even more inflexible steel.
Re-sharpening: Like black oxide, cobalt drill bits can be re-sharpened if they shed their side. Unlike titanium bits, cobalt bits have a consistent focus of cobalt in their structure, so they do not need to be re-coated. They can be honed to restore their side.
Cost: Cobalt drill bits are expensive.
Specialist Use: Cobalt drill bits are not implied to be taken care of by a beginner. They are best matched for expert as well as commercial usage given that they are fairly pricey. Black oxide as well as titanium drill bits are ample to execute everyday boring demands. If, nonetheless, you require a great deal of boring via tough steel, after that you need to most certainly go with cobalt drill bits.
Black Oxide Vs Titanium Vs Cobalt: Review
Summary Of Black Oxide Drill Bits
Black oxide drill bits are produced by home heating HSS bits to 950 Fahrenheit to produce a black oxide coating. The black oxide surface boosts the sensible feature of drill bits by generating a rust-resistant, non-corrosive product. It likewise minimizes the rubbing produced by bits while boring, because of which they drill faster than common drill bits. Not just speed up however black oxide drill bits likewise have 50% even more durability than typical HSS drill bits.
Black oxide drill bits are closest to routine HSS bits. Being economical as well as pocket pleasant, they are the best option for useful amateur individuals, DIYers, or enthusiasts. Black oxide drill bits are best understood for their adaptability. They can be made use of to deal with a substantial selection of products varying from timber, such as oak, maple, ache to steels like steel, copper, light weight aluminum, brass, and so on, in addition to nylon, PVC, acrylic, and so forth.
Aside from their toughness, flexibility, as well as rate, black oxide drill bits likewise use the center of re-sharpening them, in case the head sheds its side or obtains used. This contributes to their sturdiness. That is why black oxide drill bits are thought about to be the very best all-purpose drill bits that can be utilized for all type of basic objectives with much effectiveness as well as rate.
Summary Of Titanium drill bits
Titanium drill bits are commonly believed to be made completely out of titanium. Nonetheless, it is not so. Rather, they are regular HSS drill bits covered with titanium nitride (TiN), therefore, the name. Titanium nitride is a ceramic product that is electroplated on the drill bit, hence raising its solidity. since of their TiN layer
Titanium drill bits are sturdy and also non-corrosive. The TiN covering additionally assists in lowering rubbing to a minimum, boosting the boring rate. Titanium drill bits appropriate for drilling with iron, steel, light weight aluminum, magnesium, as well as timber. Nonetheless, consistent use difficult product creates these drill bits to shed their side. Unlike common HSS drill bits or black oxide drill bits, titanium drill bits can not be developed to reclaim the side.
They need to be covered with TiN to operate properly. Although titanium drill bits are recognized for their durability and also toughness, their titanium nitride finish, in charge of these functions, gets to just as much as the surface area. As soon as this layer is worn down, the drill bit should be transformed considering that it can not be re-sharpened, and also re-coating it with TiN is much more pricey than the drill bit itself.
Overview Of Cobalt drill bits
Cobalt drill bits have a high resistance to warmth as a result of which they are best fit for piercing difficult metals such as cast iron, stainless-steel, as well as titanium. Nonetheless, given that cobalt drill bits are extra costly, they are not ideal for basic objectives. They are better for specialist job, which includes boring with difficult metals.
Review Of Cobalt drill bits
Cobalt drill bits are produced by high-speed alloying steel with 5-8% cobalt. They are rust-resistant, solid, as well as difficult drill bits that are relatively long lasting. Unlike titanium drill bits, which are composed just of a finish of titanium nitride, cobalt bits have an also focus of cobalt throughout the drill bit, making them conveniently re-sharpenable in case they shed their side.
Frequently asked questions
1. Just how to tidy black oxide drill bits?
Should be cleaned with a tidy fabric or tooth brush after every usage. Oiling is additionally crucial.
2. I such as DIY tasks.
If I need to select in between black oxide and also titanium drill bits, which one should I pick thinking about that my task includes a great deal of metalwork as well?
Black oxide drill bits must have the ability to perform your steel and also woodwork. Additionally, it is less costly than titanium bits.
3. Can an expert handyman perform all the collaborate with cobalt bits?
Cobalt drill bits are very reliable. Yet, it is more suitable to have black oxide or titanium drill bits around for softer job.
You can obtain titanium or cobalt drill bits if you require to drill primarily with steel. However, if your requirements are restricted to softer products, black oxide is right for you.
Last Thought
After understanding all the benefits and drawbacks of black oxide, titanium, and also cobalt drill bits, we wish it is much easier for you to choose which kind of drill bit is best for you. As we claimed previously, you have to place your demands most of all. We understand that cobalt drill bits are best in efficiency as well as long life, whereas black oxide bits are most affordable.
How many benefits you get from cobalt drill bits:
- Durability
The higher the amount of cobalt in the drill bits, the greater is their heat resistance.
If you want sturdier and high-performing bits, M42-grade will give you satisfaction.
It has 8% cobalt content that makes the alloy material extremely durable.
Another option is M35-grade, which has about 5% cobalt value.
Cobalt drill bits can handle up to 1100 degrees Fahrenheit or 593 degrees Celsius without breaking.
- Versatility
There are different sizes of cobalt drill bits such as 1/16, 5/8, 3/8, and so on.
Cobalt drill bit manufacturers like Tenyu Tools offer different types and sizes.
For a variety of applications, get a whole set of cobalt drill bits in various sizes.
You can find cobalt drill bits for sale in sets of 9, 12, 14, 18, 21, and more.
It gives you easy access to different kinds of bits that will make the drilling tasks easier.
Take note that shorter drill bits are more durable because of firmer and more compact structure.
If you want to get the job done on schedule, using short drill bits is your best option.
They are tougher, more rigid, and not prone to damage.
- Saves time and increases productivity
Matching the right bit to your substrate material ensures a perfect diameter or hole.
The right choice increases your productivity level and saves time.
Moreover, using the appropriate size extends the lifespan of your cobalt bits.
From plastic to metal materials, you need to find drill bits that are designed for them.
This prevents breaking the material or the drill bit, as well as injuring yourself.
For masonry materials, cobalt drill bits are not applicable.
- Long-lasting
Cobalt drill bits are smart investments because they are cost-saving in the long run.
Initially, they cost more but last longer than conventional options.
You are spared the constant hassle of replacing them.
You can use a bench grinder to restore their sharp edges.
A cobalt drill bit is made of 5-8% Cobalt that is blended to a base material like steel.
The 5% alloy is called M35 grade, while 8% alloy is M42.
Alone, cobalt is a weak material and deteriorates easily.
It needs another material to become functional and durable.
Relatively, cobalt enhances the strength of steel and makes the alloys more heat-resistant.
It has a boiling point of 2927 degrees Celsius and a melting point of 1495 degrees Celsius.
Fun fact: Cobalt has a silver-gray, almost blue color.
This makes cobalt a popular addition to add color to jewelry, porcelain, tile, enamel, glass, and pottery.
Why Choose Cobalt Drill Bits?
Do you know that cobalt was discovered in 1739 by a Swedish chemist Georg Brandt?
It is a byproduct of mining and refining iron, copper, silver, nickel, and lead.
Today, this metal element is mostly used as a metal to form alloys.
- High-performance
They can bore through tough and compact materials without difficulty.
These include hardened materials like cast iron, titanium, treated stainless steel, and bronze.
You can also cut through weld seams efficiently.
Cobalt bits can spin against hard metal material without being damaged.
- Long-lasting
Compared to standard HSS bits, cobalt drill bits last longer.
They retain their good working condition even if you store them for a while.
Cobalt drill bits are corrosion-resistant.
They are also built to withstand the wear and tear of constant usage.
However, you need to observe proper drilling techniques to improve the lifespan of drill bits.
High-quality cobalt bits do not dull quickly and can be sharpened to extend their use.
- Safe to use
Tenyu Tools cobalt drill bits passed the strict standards of safety.
They went through the required tests of industrial, commercial, and household applications.
Every drill bit is made with precision and quality.
- Versatile
Cobalt drill bits are very versatile and ideal for household or do-it-yourself projects.
They easily fit any standard drill gun.
You can check Tenyu Tools cobalt drill bits for sale from our trusted wholesalers and importers.
But remember that you cannot use them to drill softer materials.
They can split wood due to lack of brad at the end that stops them from slipping.
That Just About Covers It!
As we said earlier, every manufacturer has its own special sauce when it comes to drill bit design but the high-level points we covered here are universal. We hope that this condensed guide will serve as a foundation and help you understand what to consider when choosing the right drill bits for your upcoming jobs.