The choice of the right drill bit is of utmost importance to the success of any project. The wrong drill bit can burn wood, damage metal or crack tiling. The right choice of cutting tools and drill bits are essential to maintain the integrity of the work piece. The perfect choice also extends the life of both the drilling tool and the bit itself.
Drill bits can be classified based on the material used for the bits such as High Speed Steel (HSS), Cobalt or having Diamond, Titanium or Carbide tips, and by also their shape. Standard Twist Bits are used for everyday drilling.
When selecting a drill bit, consider the material being drilled, the size of the hole needed, compatibility with the drill and the final finish desired. Here is how to choose the right drill bits to drill through metal, wood and concrete:
Best drill bits for wood:
High Speed Steel (HSS) drill bits can be effectively used on softer materials like wood.
The shape of the bits also plays an important role in wood work. Brad point bits are useful for smooth edges when drilling wood. For hard wood drilling, auger bits give clean, deep holes.
The spade bit with a pointed tip and wide, flat body is ideal for quickly drilling large holes in wood. They are particularly useful to create ducts to run cables. A specialized forstner drill bit is used in carpentry to create flat-bottomed holes. Clearing chips occasionally and drilling at moderate speeds can help avoid burning and splintering wood.
Best drill bits for metal:
Different drill bits are suitable for different kinds of metals. In case of softer metals like aluminium and copper, HSS drill bits work best. For harder alloys such as stainless steel, cobalt drill bits are capable of resisting the heat generated during drilling. They also remain sharp longer. If holes are to be drilled in thin sheet metal, a cone shaped drill bit can be of use. A step bit is often used for enlarging holes in sheet metals. Metal drilling can put a lot of stress on the drill bits so the wrong drill bits may overheat quickly. Use of unsuitable drill bits may also dull the drill bit in use.
Best bits for concrete :
Concrete and masonry surfaces are dense and abrasive. They need specialised masonry bits for drilling. A hammer drill or rotary hammer is a good choice when working with masonry. Carbide tipped masonry bits are a good choice as they are durable and heat resistant. Designed for hammer drills, they offer best results during concrete drilling. To drill deep holes in concrete specialized shank design (SDS) bits are excellent. They are designed for use with hammer drills. Specialized core cutting drill bits are used in mining operations. It is a good practice to do a test pilot before working on the entire job.
There are purpose-specific bits created for use with glass and ceramics too. From woodworking, metalworking to heavy-duty masonry, there’s a perfect drill bit for every purpose. Understanding and choosing the right drill bits for different materials and uses helps to deliver the best results.
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