What Is the Best Material for Metal Drill Bits?

Drill bits for metal are made from one of the following four types of materials:

• High-speed steel (HSS)
• Black oxide.
• Cobalt steel.
• Titanium.

You probably possess a few HSS bits in your tool kit and these are fine if you plan on basic metalwork projects. Yet, be prepared for the extra wear and tear that drilling through metal causes. It’s likely to damage or dull the bit quicker. When drilling into steel or other hard metals like stainless steel you will benefit from titanium drill bits for metal. These bits will reduce the heat and friction better, thus lasting longer. Alternatively, black oxide or cobalt steel bits are more friendly on the pocket and better than HSS bits for those who are going to regularly drill into metals. 

Drill Through Metal

1. Once your drill bit has completely penetrated through, stop and allow it to cool down before removing the bit.
2. Take your desired-size bit for your soon-to-be hole and secure it in place. Another option — use a hole saw bit. This can take that initial indent or pilot hole and make it significantly larger.
3. Lubricate the hole and the bit again to prevent any further heat build-up.
4. Continue to drill slowly — as detailed in the pre-drilling steps above — with a gradually increasing drill bit size until your hole reaches the required diameter.
5. Allow the metal to cool down before handling.

Post-Drilling

1. Drilling a hole in metal will normally leave sharper edges than wood. Known as ‘burrs,’ these small sharp pieces or points of metal remain around the edge of the hole and will need removing.
2. Deburring tools are available, but a handy cheat is simply to use a drill bit that’s slightly larger than the hole you created.
3. Holding the drill bit in your hands, remember to keep those tough gloves on, place it into the top of your new hole and gently twist. This allows the fluted design of the bit to remove any unwanted sharp edges.
4. Once successfully deburred, clean off any excess oils, and hey presto, you’re done. Stand back and examine your handiwork. Great job!