Different types of drill bits are needed to drill on separate materials for various purposes. Thus, knowing about several types of drill bits and their purposes might help you pick the proper drill bit for your project and achieve the best results. In this blog, we will explore the types of drill bits and their purposes comprehensively to help you make an informed choice.
Materials Used to Manufacture Drill Bits
Several materials are used to make drill bits, and each has unique qualities. Here are some commonly used materials.
- Carbon steel: soft metals and wood can be drilled with this inexpensive material.
- High-speed steel (HSS): In such drill bits, chromium and nickel is used to improve the hardness and durability. This type of drill bit is used for drilling tougher metals, this more resilient material is employed.
- Cobalt steel: A small percentage of cobalt (usually 5-7%) is mixed with steel to make these drill bits. This is even more resilient and is used to drill strong metals like stainless steel.
- Carbide: Carbide is combined with steel to manufacture super tough drill bits. It can drill through masonry and other hard materials.
- Diamond: The toughest material used to make drill bits, diamond is used to drill through hard and brittle materials like tile and glass.
You may get better results and prevent material damage by selecting the appropriate drill bit type for your project and operating it appropriately.
Types of Drill Bits and Their Usage
Drill bits come in various shapes and sizes, each optimized for a certain material or activity. Here are some of the most common drill bit types and their applications:
Twist bits:
The most common drill bit is used for drilling wood, plastic, masonry work, and soft metals. This has a helical shape which assists in reducing material resistance while drilling.
Brad and pilot point bits:
These bits have a pointed tip that helps them stay in place when drilling wood. They are commonly used for drilling holes in the wood and producing a clean hole.
Spade bits:
These bits have a flat, paddle-shaped tip perfect for drilling large holes in soft materials like wood and brick walls for electrical, plumbing, and framing work. These are perfect for making large-diameter holes in less time. They are often used for strenuous jobs when accuracy is less important.
Forstner bits:
If you work largely on wood, this is the best drill bit for you. These bits are used to drill holes with a flat bottom in wood. They are often used for furniture construction and other woodworking jobs. But it performs better in press drills than hand drills.
Auger bits:
Helical-patterned bits are used to drill deep holes in wood. They are mostly used to make holes for dowels, large woodworking projects, and building construction.
Masonry bits:
Masonry bits are carbide-tipped bits specially designed for drilling into concrete, brick, and other masonry materials. They are commonly used in construction projects and home repair activities.
Cobalt bits:
Made of cobalt and steel alloys, these bits are used to drill hard metals such as stainless steel. They are often used in machine shops and other industrial settings. These have high wear and tear resistance and can withstand high temperatures caused during the drilling process. Often cobalt bits are coated with titanium to improve their hardness and heat-withstanding properties.
Countersink bits:
These bits create a conical hole in the material, allowing screws to sit flush with the surface. They are widely used in woodworking, metal, and PVC activities.
Maintenance Advice for Drill Machines and Bits
Proper maintenance of your drill machine and bits can improve their life and guarantee better performance. Here are some guidelines for keeping your drills and drill bits:
- Keep your drill bits clean and dry.
- Store your drill bits in a dry area.
- Sharpen your drill bits frequently.
- Use the correct kind of lubricant while drilling metal.
- Use the proper kind of coolant while drilling masonry.
- Replace worn or broken drill bits.
- Use the proper kind of drill bit for the material being drilled.
Key Takeaways
Drill bits are created from various materials, each with unique qualities. There are varieties of drill bits available, and each is optimized for certain materials and uses. Knowing which drill bit best suits your work can improve performance and safety. L&T-SuFin offers a variety of drill bits from reputed manufacturers. This is a one-stop solution for any drill bit and other industrial equipment. Check our website for more details and get your right drill bit now.