When drilling through hard metal, choosing the right drill bit is crucial. Using the wrong drill bit can result in broken or dull bits, damaged tools, and wasted time and money. In this article, we’ll look at some of the best drill bits for hard metal and what makes them stand out.
Understanding Hard Metal: The Properties That Affect Drilling
Hard metal, also known as cemented carbide or tungsten carbide, is a material that has become essential in various industries such as manufacturing, construction, and engineering. Its exceptional hardness, strength, and wear resistance properties make it a go-to material for cutting, drilling, and shaping applications. Here, we’ll delve into the properties of hard metals that affect drilling and explore the common types of hard metals used in various applications.What is Hard Metal?
Hard metal is a composite material comprising a combination of tungsten carbide particles, cobalt, and other metal powders. These particles are compacted and sintered under high pressure and temperature to form a solid material with high hardness and wear resistance. Hard metal is commonly used in cutting tools, drilling tools, mining equipment, and wear-resistant parts due to its superior mechanical properties.
Properties of Hard Metal That Affect Drilling
Hard metal has several properties that affect its performance in drilling applications. Some of these properties include:
Hardness
Hardness is one of the most critical properties of hard metal that makes it suitable for drilling applications. Hard metal has a high hardness level, with a hardness value of up to 90 HRA, making it resistant to wear and deformation during drilling.
Wear Resistance
Hard metal is highly resistant to wear due to its composition, which includes tungsten carbide particles. These particles are rigid and provide excellent resistance to abrasive wear during the drilling, extending the life of the drilling tool.
Strength
Hard metal has high compressive strength, making it suitable for drilling through rigid materials such as rocks and metals. It can withstand high-stress levels without deformation or failure, making it ideal for drilling under high-pressure conditions.
Toughness
Hard metal is also rigid and can withstand impacts without fracturing or chipping. This property is crucial in drilling applications involving hard and brittle materials such as concrete.
Common Types of Hard Metals
There are various types of hard metals used in different applications. Here are some of the most common types of hard metals:
Tungsten Carbide
Tungsten carbide is the most popular and widely used hard metal in drilling applications. It comprises tungsten carbide particles and cobalt, which gives it excellent wear resistance, toughness, and strength. Tungsten carbide is commonly used in cutting and drilling tools for metalworking, mining, and construction.
Titanium Carbide
Titanium carbide is another hard metal used in drilling applications. It has excellent wear resistance and toughness, making it suitable for drilling through tough materials such as rocks and metals. Titanium carbide is commonly used in mining, oil and gas drilling, and construction.
Tantalum Carbide
Tantalum carbide is a hard metal with excellent thermal conductivity and chemical stability. It is commonly used in high-temperature applications, such as cutting and drilling tools for aerospace and military applications.
Cobalt Carbide
Cobalt carbide is a hard metal with excellent corrosion and wear resistance. It is commonly used in cutting and drilling tools for metalworking and oil and gas drilling.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Drill Bits for Hard Metal
Choosing the right drill bit is crucial when drilling through hard metal. The type of drill bit you choose will determine the quality and efficiency of your drilling operation. Here are some factors to consider when selecting drill bits for hard metal:
Material of the Drill Bit
The material of the drill bit is an essential factor to consider when drilling through hard metal. High-speed steel (HSS) drill bits are the most commonly used drill bits for drilling through hard metal. However, consider using cobalt or carbide drill bits if you need to drill through ultra-hard metals, such as hardened steel or titanium.
Coatings and Surface Treatments
Coatings and surface treatments are applied to drill bits to improve their performance and extend their lifespan. Some of the most common coatings and surface treatments include titanium nitride (TiN), titanium carbonitride (TiCN), and diamond-like carbon (DLC). These coatings provide excellent wear resistance, reduce friction, and improve chip evacuation.
Shape and Design of the Drill Bit
The shape and design of the drill bit play a crucial role in the performance of the drilling operation. Drill bits come in different shapes and designs, including twist, spade, and step drills. The design of the drill bit determines how efficiently it cuts through hard metal, handles chips, and evacuates heat from the cutting area.
Size of the Drill Bit
The size of the drill bit is another critical factor to consider when drilling through hard metal. The size of the hole you want to drill determines the size of the drill bit you need. However, when drilling through hard metal, choosing the right size of the drill bit is essential to avoid excessive wear and breakage.
Shank Type
The shank type of the drill bit is another factor to consider when drilling through hard metal. The shank of the drill bit is the part that fits into the drill chuck. Drill bits come in different shank types, including straight, hex, and SDS-plus shank. The shank type you choose depends on the kind of drill you’re using and the drilling operation.
In conclusion, choosing the right drill bit is essential when drilling through hard metal. Consider the material of the drill bit, coatings and surface treatments, shape and design of the drill bit, size of the drill bit, and shank type to ensure efficient and successful drilling operations.
Types of Drill Bits for Hard Metal
When drilling through hard metal, choosing the right type of drill bit is crucial. Here are the most common types of drill bits for hard metal:
High-Speed Steel (HSS) Drill Bits
HSS drill bits are the most commonly used drill bits for drilling through hard metal. They are made from a high-speed steel alloy that can withstand high temperatures and is highly durable. HSS drill bits are relatively inexpensive and can be used for various drilling operations.
Cobalt Drill Bits
Cobalt drill bits are made from a blend of cobalt and high-speed steel. They are more durable and heat-resistant than HSS drill bits and can be used for drilling through hard metals such as stainless steel and cast iron. However, they are more expensive than HSS drill bits.
Carbide Drill Bits
Carbide drill bits are made from a carbide alloy and are highly durable and heat-resistant. They are suitable for drilling through ultra-hard metals such as hardened steel and titanium. Carbide drill bits are more expensive than HSS and cobalt but offer superior performance.
Diamond Drill Bits
Diamond drill bits are used for drilling through rigid materials such as glass, ceramics, and hardened metals. They are coated with diamond particles, which make them highly durable and effective at cutting through hard materials. However, they are the most expensive drill bit and are typically used for specialized applications.
TiN (Titanium Nitride) Coated Drill Bits
TiN-coated drill bits have a thin layer of titanium nitride coating on the surface of the drill bit. This coating provides excellent wear resistance, reduces friction, and improves chip evacuation. TiN-coated drill bits are relatively inexpensive and suitable for drilling through hard metals.
TiCN (Titanium Carbonitride) Coated Drill Bits
TiCN-coated drill bits have a combination of titanium, carbon, and nitrogen coating on the surface of the drill bit. This coating provides superior wear and heat resistance, making TiCN-coated drill bits suitable for drilling through hard metals such as stainless steel and cast iron. They are more expensive than TiN-coated drill bits.
TiALN (Titanium Aluminum Nitride) Coated Drill Bits
TiALN-coated drill bits have a combination of titanium, aluminum, and nitrogen coating on the surface of the drill bit. This coating provides superior wear, heat, and oxidation resistance, making TiALN-coated drill bits suitable for drilling through hard metals such as hardened steel and titanium. They are the most expensive type of coated drill bit.
Comparing Drill Bit Types
When comparing the different types of drill bits, it’s essential to consider their strengths and weaknesses, best uses, and cost.
- HSS drill bits are affordable and versatile but may not be suitable for drilling through ultra-hard metals.
- Cobalt drill bits offer better durability and heat resistance than HSS drill bits but are more expensive.
- Carbide drill bits are highly durable, heat-resistant, and suitable for drilling through ultra-hard metals, but they are the most expensive drill bit.
- Diamond drill bits are the most durable and practical at drilling through hard materials but are only suitable for specialized applications and are the most expensive type of drill bit.
- Coated drill bits, such as TiN, TiCN, and TiALN, offer improved wear and heat resistance, making them suitable for drilling through hard metals, but they are more expensive than uncoated drill bits.
In conclusion, choosing the right type of drill bit for hard metal depends on the specific drilling operation and the material being drilled. Consider the strengths and weaknesses, best uses, and cost of each type of drill bit to ensure successful and efficient drilling operations.
Best Drill Bits for Hard Metal Reviews
Now that you know what to consider when choosing a drill bit for hard metal, let’s look at some of the best drill bits on the market.
DEWALT DWA1184 14Piece Set
The DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, For Plastic, Wood, and Metal (DWA1184) is an excellent investment for anyone who frequently works with various materials. This drill bit set is designed to last with its black and gold coating that prevents rust and its tapered web design that provides extreme durability to resist breakage. The 3-flat shank also reduces spin-out in the chuck, making it a reliable option for any drilling task.
The best feature of this drill bit set is its versatility. The bits are made of heavy-duty, High-Speed Steel, making them perfect for drilling into various materials such as plastic, wood, and metal. Additionally, each bit features a 135° split point tip design that helps to reduce walking, ensuring precision and accuracy during drilling. With this set, users can tackle any drilling task with ease.
Overall, the DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, For Plastic, Wood, and Metal (DWA1184) is an excellent addition to any toolkit. Its durable construction, versatile use, and precision make it a reliable option for anyone needing a high-quality drill bit set. Whether you are a professional or a DIY enthusiast, this set will surely provide exceptional performance and results.
COMOWARE Cobalt Drill Bit Set
The COMOWARE Cobalt Drill Bit Set- 21Pcs M35 High-Speed Steel Twist Jobber Length is an excellent choice for those looking to tackle drilling tasks on rigid materials such as hardened metal, stainless steel, cast iron, and wood plastic. With a range of sizes from 1/16″ to 3/8″, this set offers versatility for various drilling needs.
One of the standout features of the COMOWARE drill bit set is its construction. Made with M35 High-Speed Steel and 5% cobalt, these bits are incredibly durable and long-lasting. The cobalt coating also helps to reduce heat buildup and friction, which can cause bits to wear down quickly. Additionally, the twist design allows for precise drilling without excessive force.
The set comes with a metal indexed storage case, making it easy to keep the bits organized and accessible. This is especially helpful for those who use drill bits frequently, as it eliminates the need to sift through a cluttered toolbox to find the right size. Overall, the COMOWARE Cobalt Drill Bit Set- 21Pcs M35 High-Speed Steel Twist Jobber Length is an excellent investment for those who need to drill into rigid materials. Its durability, precision, and organization make it a reliable and convenient option for any drilling task.
DEWALT Drill Bit Set (DW1354)
DEWALT’s IMPACT READY Titanium Nitride Coated drill bit set now comes in the innovative ToughCase+ system, designed to optimize storage space and keep your bits organized. This system is perfect for those who need a convenient and reliable way to store their drill bits. The patented bit-bar design of the set allows for easy bit removal, while the clear lid lets you quickly see what’s inside.
Constructed from one solid piece of heavy-duty metal, these drill bits are incredibly durable, up to 5 times more than conventional 2-piece bits. The Titanium Nitride coating helps to prevent wear and tear, while the patented web taper increases bit strength. The proprietary PILOT POINT tip also delivers speed and clear, burr-free holes, reducing bit walking and ensuring precision drilling.
The set is ideal for drilling into metal, wood, and plastic, making it a versatile choice for those needing reliable drill bits for various applications. Overall, the DEWALT IMPACT READY Titanium Nitride Coated drill bit set in the ToughCase+ system is an excellent investment for anyone needing high-quality and durable drill bits. Its organization, durability, and precision make it a reliable option for any drilling task.
CO-Z 5pcs Hss Cobalt Multiple Hole 50 Sizes Step Drill Bit Set
The CO-Z Step Drill Bits are a must-have for DIY enthusiasts. This 5-piece set offers 50 different sizes in 5 high-speed steel uni-bit drill bits, all coated with titanium for added durability. The set comes with an aluminum case for easy and organized storage.
These drill bits are compatible with 1/4, 3/8, and 1/2 electric or bench drills. However, they are designed specifically for sheet metal, aluminum, or plastic. Each bit level is marked with laser engraving, making it easy to find and drill the precise diameter needed for each task.
The dual grooves on each bit quickly remove chips and other debris, ensuring your work area stays safe, and each hole is deburred correctly. The 1/4 and 3/8-inch shanks are also engineered for maximum stability and strength, preventing any offset or slippage during use.
Overall, the CO-Z Step Drill Bits set is an excellent investment for anyone who regularly works with sheet metal, aluminum, or plastic. The variety of sizes and the precision of the laser engraving make it easy to achieve accurate results every time. At the same time, the durable construction ensures long-lasting use.
Amoolo Hex Shank Drill Bit Set
The amoolo 1/8 Hex Shank Drill Bits set is an excellent option for those needing a versatile and durable drill bit set. This 10-piece set is made from high-speed steel and coated with titanium, making it suitable for drilling into metal, steel, wood, and plastic. The quick-change design allows for easy swapping of bits without needing any tools.
The drill bits feature a press-in pin connection, which makes them easy to attach to your drill. The unique point cut and straightening process, combined with the thoroughly ground design, also ensures that each bit is precise and efficient. This makes them ideal for woodworking, metalworking, plastic, and DIY projects around the home.
Overall, the amoolo 1/8 Hex Shank Drill Bits set is an excellent investment for anyone needing a reliable and versatile drill bit. Their durability and precision make them ideal for various applications, while the quick-change design makes them easy to use.
Viking Drill and Tool 44150 SP-29
Viking Drill and Tool are committed to providing quality, consistency, service, and product value. The quality of their cutting tools starts with the finest tool steel available. It ends with world-class products in its catalog. They design, engineer, and craft their cutting tools for long-lasting durability.
Their St. Paul, Minnesota manufacturing facility is specifically designed for efficient, high-quality cutting tool manufacturing. Skilled machine operators working with the world’s finest raw materials can provide consistently high-quality products time after time, year after year.
Viking Drill and Tool’s Ultra Bor Super Premium products go above and beyond recognized tool tolerance standards to ensure that customers receive drills manufactured to the tightest possible specifications for utmost consistency and accuracy. All materials used at Viking Drill and Tool meet the rigorous qualifications of National Aerospace Standard (NAS) 907, the most stringent standard in the industry.
Their extensive selection of U.S.-manufactured tools is designed to give customers the right tool for any tough job they may encounter at the right price. In summary, Viking Drill and Tool is a company dedicated to providing customers with high-quality, consistent, and accurate cutting tools.
Metric M42 8% Cobalt Twist Drill Bits Set
The Metric M42 8% Cobalt Twist Drill Bits Set is an ideal tool for drilling through rigid materials such as stainless steel and hard metals. This 19-piece set is made from premium cobalt, which costs $80,000 per ton and provides better heat and wear resistance than generic high-speed steel. The 8% cobalt content further enhances the drill bits’ performance, making them an excellent choice for those who need to tackle hard-to-drill materials.
The 3-step design tip allows for easy and immediate drilling with less force, eliminating the need for “walking” across the work surface. The set is suitable for drilling into various materials, including hardwood, aluminum, copper, and plastic. The design makes it accurately centered, making it an ideal tool for woodworking jobs that require precision drilling. The cobalt-containing design makes it an excellent choice for hardwood drilling, ensuring the job is completed efficiently and effectively.
Overall, the Metric M42 8% Cobalt Twist Drill Bits Set is an excellent investment for anyone who needs a durable, high-performance drill bit set. The premium cobalt construction and 8% cobalt content make these bits more resilient and long-lasting than many other options on the market. The 3-step design tip and accuracy are ideal for woodworking and other precision drilling jobs. Their ability to drill into rigid materials such as stainless steel and hard metals makes them an essential tool for any serious DIYer or professional.
EnerTwist Titanium Drill Bit Kit Set
The ENERTWIST Titanium Drill Bit Kit Set is a 230-piece for metal and wood drilling applications. The drill bits are made from high-grade HSS material and coated with titanium nitride to reduce heat buildup. The 118° point tip makes them highly durable and lasts up to six times longer than conventional bits.
To prevent bits from falling off and getting mixed up during repeated use, there is a sponge cushion between the upper and lower halves of the kit. The kit comes with a solid plastic BMC with metal buckles that lock the box for easy carrying, with dimensions of 10.24″* 8.67″* 1.97″ (LWH).
This set is all-purpose and can be used on wood, metal, fiberglass, and plastics. It’s ideal for drilling on mild steel, copper, aluminum, and zinc alloy. However, it’s not recommended for use on concrete or masonry.
Countersink Drill Bit Set
The Countersink Drill Bit Set consists of 5 pieces of high-speed steel with a 6mm round shank mill cutter bit, each with an 82-degree 5 flute design in sizes of 1/4”, 3/8”, 1/2”, 5/8”, and 3/4”. These countersinks are made from industrial-grade high-speed steel, making them highly durable. Additionally, each countersink features a golden oxide coating to resist corrosion and prolong the tool’s life.
The 5 flute design efficiently removes chips, resulting in a smoother and extended tool life. The precision ground 82° tips make it suitable for countersinking most machinable metals, wood, and plastic. The set comes with a padded carrying case for easy storage and transportation.
BOSCH 21 Piece Black Oxide Metal Drill Bit Set BL21A
The Bosch Black Oxide Metal Drill Bits are a dependable choice for contractors, electricians, and professionals looking for reliable bits for general-purpose drilling in various materials, including wood, plastic, and light-gauge metal. The split-point tip of the drill bit is well-designed to ensure no-skate starts and clean, accurate holes. This ensures that the user does not face any difficulties while drilling.
The bit provides a longer lifespan than the standard drill bits due to its unique tip design and black oxide coating. This means that the user can work with the same bit for a longer time, increasing efficiency and reducing expenses. Additionally, the three-flat shank design on the bits of 3/16 In. and more extensive provides better gripping. It helps guard against slipping, making the drilling process more secure and stable.
Overall, the Bosch Black Oxide Metal Drill Bits is a reliable, durable, and efficient choice for professionals looking to get the job done right. The unique features of the drill bit, such as the split-point tip and black oxide coating, make drilling more accessible and less time-consuming. At the same time, the three-flat shank design adds to the bit’s gripping power and security. Whether drilling into wood, plastic, or light-gauge metal, these bits are an excellent choice for those who require accuracy, dependability, and efficiency in their drilling needs.
Tips for Drilling Hard Metal
YouTube Credit: Darrell Haun
Maintenance and Sharpening of Drill Bits
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Metal-drilling bits are a must-have for any metalworker. Knowing which drill bit is the perfect fit can be confusing, but this article will make it easier to choose just what you need!
Choosing the right type of Drill Bit depends on what material you’re planning to drill. If you’re planning to drill through a softer metal like aluminum, then Titanium bits work best. On the other hand, Cobalt drill bits are perfect for drilling through hardened metal like cast iron.
Some manufacturers of drill bits think they are worth more than others because of how specialized they are. This article is going to cover the top ten drill bits that are the most popular, but keep in mind, every company thinks their drill bits are the best.
Drilling is a difficult task, even for experienced DIYers. But if you don’t sharpen your drill bits when the cutting edges become dull and they have trouble drilling holes then it’ll be more challenging than ever before! If this sounds like something that would happen to you, I recommend taking 10 minutes out of your day to do some careful sharpening on all those old drills in the garage – or at least keep them handy so next time an important hole needs drilling (underneath my kitchen sink) there’s no excuse not to get down-nitty gritty with a bench grinder.
It is easy to remove a broken drill bit by adding some lubricating oil and then gripping it with pliers. First, pour on the grease or add in an extra drop of cooking spray before you grip the shank securely with your tool. Then twist counterclockwise until all that remains are scraps poking out from a hole where there used to be something sharp!
Conclusion
If you need to drill through tough metals like steel or titanium, we’ve got the best drill bits for hard metal for your job.
Whether you’re a professional contractor who needs to work quickly or an amateur tinkerer that just wants to get it done right, we have what you need!
