The Difference Between HSS and Cobalt Drill Bits - speed drill bit

HSS and cobalt drills need to be cared for and maintained to ensure they deliver consistent performance. Even the hardest wearing materials can become blunted or dulled after a period of hard work. Using the correct drilling technique improves the lifespan of any drill bit.

Interior fitting work – Cabinets, shelves, and other interior fittings are just some of the things that can be installed with our drill bits, as they provide the required precision for the job at hand.

Cobalt bits are a combination of steel (or another alloy) mixed with a small percentage of cobalt, typically between 5 – 7%. Cobalt has a melting point of 1495°C and a boiling point of 2927°C, which makes it perfect for use at high temperatures. By combining a small amount of cobalt with another alloy, the results are incredible.

The cutting edge on a good quality cobalt bit should last for longer than a standard HSS bit. Like other HSS bits, they are corrosion-resistant, which means they should retain their condition in all storage and usage conditions they’re likely to experience. However, cobalt can be brittle. If your cobalt drill bits aren’t cared for properly or are dropped, they can break – which can prove costly.

Plumbing, heating, and electrical installation – Whether it’s drilling holes for piping or conduits or installing heating and electrical fixtures, our drill bits guarantee smooth and accurate drilling in diverse materials.

Sharp point edge – With their 118-degree point edge, these drill bits provide precise and efficient drilling, which reduces the required effort and boosts productivity.

If you need formwork and installation HSS drill bits, then we’re here to help. Be sure to add your chosen product to your cart and improve your operations today.

If you’re unsure of the equipment you need, then speak to us. At R.D. Barrett we’ve been supplying the public and the trade with high-quality tools since 1975. We’re always happy to answer any questions you might have, and give you the benefit of our experience to ensure you have the right tools to do the best job.

DIN 7490 standard – These drill bits are designed to meet DIN 7490 standards, resulting in consistent quality and performance.

Over time, HSS drill bits can become blunt and need to be sharpened, which demands specialist tools that aren’t always available. If you’re using HSS drill bits for long periods or at high RPMs, you may need to use cutting fluid to keep the bit cool.

R.D. Barrett was established in 1975 by Ron Derek Barrett, an ex employee of both DS & G Lathes and Ford Motor Company. We hold one of the UK largest stock of engineering tooling.

HSS bits are hardwearing and heat resistant. The large concentrations of chrome and nickel in stainless steel ensure that HSS bits are super strong and durable. HSS drill bits are capable of safely drilling through hardwood, some metals and plastic. They’re safe to operate at high speeds (RPM) and provide long-lasting performance – as long as they are maintained.

Compatible design – Our drill bits are crafted to fit drills with a 13mm chuck, meaning they’re compatible with a wide array of drilling machines. As a result, they’re a versatile choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

Cobalt drill bits are incredibly strong. They can be operated at much higher speeds than a standard HSS drill bit. The ability to withstand heat means that cobalt bits perform for long periods without cooling or the need for cutting fluid.

Building trade – Our drill bits excel in many construction tasks, which is why they’re ideal for building trade professionals. From drilling for formwork to installing fixtures and everything in between, our drill bits can make it happen.

It’s crucial for the safety of your tools and yourself that you use the right bit for the job. You will find cobalt drill bits stocked alongside other popular choices, including titanium coated, titanium nitride and tungsten carbide bits. Each of these has its strengths and weaknesses which you should be aware of before buying.

They are most often used to cut through hardened and abrasive materials. Cobalt bits are able to cut through the most hardened metals, including bronze, cast iron, stainless steel and titanium. They are also able to cut through weld seams.

The strength of cobalt means that drill bits are better suited to the tough challenge of cutting through steel. Cobalt bits aren’t suitable for general applications. For less intensive operations, like drilling through wood, plastic or light metals, an HSS drill bit is perfect.

Sturdy, hardwearing and robust, modern metal drill bits can cut through the toughest materials with no trouble. When it comes to drilling, selecting the right tool for the job is crucial. In this article we describe the difference between High-Speed Steel (HSS) and cobalt drill bits, their strengths and weaknesses, and when you should use them.

Versatile usage – Our drill bits are engineered for many applications, including drilling into formwork, wood, hard/solid wood, softwood, planks, boards, plasterboard, light building materials, synthetic material, profile sheets, insulating materials, and metals, like steel, aluminium, or ferrous metals.

Our formwork and installation HSS drill bits allow you to take your drilling tasks to the next level. Engineered with accuracy and durability in mind, whatever your task, this is the ideal bit for drilling. These long and extra-long shank drill bits are crafted to excel in drilling through multilayer building materials or sandwich materials with ease. From the building to the electrical trade, our drill bits can assist with interior fitting work, including plumbing and heating installation. If you want to achieve professional results, these drill bits are your number one companion.