Metal Drill Bits – How to Choose and use the Best Metal Drill Bits

Choosing the best metal drill bits for your project. However, this is not so easy as there are several types of metal drill bits. These drill bits vary by size, shape, and drill point angles. Hence, there are several tips you must consider for your drilling projects.

Drill Bit Types For Metal

Because different drill types are suitable for different metals, you must understand the types of drill bits and their application to different materials.

Step bit

A  step drill bit is a drill bit with a conical profile. The conical structure of the step bit makes it suitable for cutting wider ranges of holes. Therefore, the step bit is common among construction workers and metal sheet benders. The configuration of the step bit makes them most suitable for cutting soft materials as well as metals. The greatest advantage of the step is its diameter maneuvering feature, making for a smoother and neater cut. 

Twist bit

Twist drill bits are probably the most commonly used type of drill bit, usually for general and non-expert drilling applications. The primary feature that characterizes a twist bit is its helix profile shape, which allows for easy cutting for even non-experts. 

Long twist drill bits are for drilling openings that run further than a standard-length drill bit. Additionally, they can cut hard metals of great thickness. 

What To Consider When Choosing The Best Drill Bits For Metal?

To get the best out of your workpiece, you have to have the very best drill bit for metals. It will involve putting many factors into consideration, from the material type to the size of the drill bit. Choosing the best drill bit for your workpiece can improve your drill bits’ shelf life immensely as well as offer a better economic value. Below are several factors that you must consider in choosing your drill bit for metals

Material

Most drill bits for metals are either high-speed steel or carbide. Also, they can be cobalt. Nevertheless, different drill bits have different properties and applications, which makes them distinct from each other. Observe below the different material types and their application.

1 HSS

HSS is one of the most popular drill bits due to its all-round application and diverse applications. This tool is best suitable to cut non ferrous and ferrous metals, and it can also cut carbon steel should the need arise.

2 Cobalt steel

Cobalt steel is also a popular metal in a wide range of industries. However, unlike many other metals, it is most suitable for cutting nonferrous metals. 

3 Carbide-tipped

The carbide tipped drill bit is a masonry bit that is particularly suitable for cutting hard materials. It has a longer shelf life, making it more durable and cost-effective than most metal drill bits. 

4 Carbide

This material type is best suitable for cutting nonferrous metals. Drill bits with this material are most compatible with stronger metals due to wear resistance and shelf life.

Coating

Drill bit coating is also an important aspect to discuss. It covers the drill bits, and it helps to reduce friction, buckling, and wear. Most bits usually have titanium as coatings to reduce overheating and increase productivity. 

 1 Uncoated

Uncoated bits are particularly applicable to cutting plastic, woods, as well as soft metals like aluminum. Because the materials are generally of low density and strength, uncoated drill bits work perfectly. 

2 Black oxide/ Black and gold oxide

The black oxide coating helps to increase chip flow and subsequently reduce friction. They are mostly suitable for cutting ferrous materials.  

3 Titanium-nitride (TiN) coated

These are similar to uncoated drill bits. However, TiN coated bits can admittedly cut faster than uncoated bits. Additionally, they have a higher shelf life, thereby offering more economic value. 

4 Titanium-aluminum-nitride (TiAlN)/ Aluminum-titanium-nitride (AlTiN) coated

AlTiN is the strongest coating, which makes it best suitable for cutting both stronger and softer irons. TiAlN, on the other hand, has applications in high-alloy carbon steel and titanium. 

Shank Design 

The shank is the end of your drill bit that you attach to your drill chuck. However, it is worthy of mentioning that we have different chuck sizes and match the corresponding bit size. Let’s take a look at these shank types.

1 no-spin shank.

The no-spin shank comes with a unique flute design that keeps the drill bit from wandering.

2 Hex shank.

The hex shank comes with a sturdy six side design that helps it remain steady during cutting operations on hard metals.