HSS vs. Cobalt: When the Going Gets Tough, the Drill Bits Get Tougher

26/09/2024

When it comes to drilling through various materials, choosing the right drill bit is crucial for both efficiency and quality of work. High-Speed Steel (HSS) and Cobalt drill bits are two of the most popular types for professional and DIY users alike. But what’s the difference, and when should you use one over the other? Let’s break it down.

High-Speed Steel (HSS) Drill Bits

HSS drill bits are the workhorse of the drilling world. They are made from carbon steel combined with alloys like chromium and vanadium, which give them their high durability and strength. HSS bits are designed to drill through softer materials, such as wood, plastic, and softer metals like aluminium and brass.

Advantages of HSS Drill Bits:

• Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of general-purpose drilling tasks.
• Cost-Effective: Typically more affordable than cobalt drill bits, making them a popular choice for everyday use.
• Durability: HSS bits are heat-resistant up to around 500°C, making them ideal for high-speed drilling without losing hardness.

Best Use Cases:

• Woodworking
• Drilling plastic and softer metals
• General home repair and DIY projects

Shop HSS Drill Bits Here

Cobalt Drill Bits

Cobalt drill bits are essentially HSS drill bits with an added 5-8% cobalt content mixed into the steel. This makes them even harder and more resistant to heat. Cobalt bits are specifically designed for drilling harder materials like stainless steel, cast iron, and other tough alloys.

Advantages of Cobalt Drill Bits:

• Extreme Durability: Due to the added cobalt, these bits can withstand high temperatures (up to 600°C) and are less likely to wear down or become dull.
• Heat Resistance: Cobalt bits stay sharp longer, especially in tough applications, because they can handle high-speed, high-friction drilling.
• Ideal for Hard Metals: Perfect for drilling into harder metals like stainless steel, cast iron, and even titanium.

Best Use Cases:

• Drilling stainless steel, cast iron, and hardened materials
• Automotive and industrial applications
• Situations where durability and heat resistance are critical

Cobalt Drill Bits Here

Which One Should You Choose?

The choice between HSS and Cobalt drill bits depends largely on the material you're working with and the frequency of your drilling projects.

For everyday projects involving wood, plastic, and softer metals, HSS drill bits are your go-to. They’re affordable, versatile, and reliable for most home and light industrial applications.

If you’re working with tougher materials like stainless steel or cast iron, Cobalt drill bits are the superior choice. Their enhanced durability and heat resistance make them ideal for heavy-duty jobs that demand precision and longevity.

Conclusion

Both HSS and Cobalt drill bits have their strengths, and choosing the right one can make all the difference in your project’s outcome. For general-purpose drilling, you can’t go wrong with HSS. But when the job requires tackling tougher materials, Cobalt drill bits are the powerhouse you need.

At UK Tool Supply, we offer a wide range of HSS and Cobalt drill bits from top brands to suit every project. Be sure to check out our product selection to find the best drill bit for your needs.

Happy drilling!