Technical Information for High-Performance Drills
High-performance drills are designed for demanding production environments where cost per hole, tool life, and part quality are critical. Unlike general-purpose drills, these tools utilize premium materials, precise geometries, and advanced coatings to deliver consistent performance in challenging alloys, high-volume runs, and applications where downtime is costly.
Key Benefits:
Higher cutting speeds and feeds for maximum productivity.
Extended tool life in hardened or abrasive materials.
Improved hole accuracy and surface finish in precision machining.
Reduced downtime with fewer tool changes and better chip evacuation.
Advanced Drill Materials
Cobalt (M35 & M42)
- Enhanced hardness and red-hot heat resistance compared to HSS.
- Ideal for stainless steel, cast iron, and heat-treated alloys.
Powdered Metal (PM)
- Middle ground between cobalt and carbide.
- Tough and wear-resistant, especially effective in high-silicon aluminums and abrasive non-ferrous materials.
Solid Carbide
- Exceptional rigidity and wear resistance.
- Withstands high cutting temperatures and excels in high-speed, high-precision environments.
- Best for aerospace alloys, hardened steels, composites, and abrasive conditions.
Considering upgrading your solid carbide drills? Learn more.
Carbide-Tipped
- Combines solid carbide cutting edges with a steel body for durability and cost efficiency.
- Suited for large-diameter or heavy-duty applications.
High-Performance Coatings
Geometry for Performance
Applications & Selection Strategies
Aerospace & Automotive: Use solid carbide or carbide-tipped with TiAlN or FIREX® for nickel alloys and hardened steels.
General Metalworking: Cobalt drills with TiCN offer durability and cost efficiency.
Non-Ferrous Applications: DLC-coated carbide excels in aluminum, composites, and plastics.
Deep-Hole Machining: Pair parabolic flutes or coolant-through drills with proper feeds/speeds for chip control.
Safety & Productivity Best Practices
Always secure the workpiece before drilling to prevent chatter or tool damage.
Match speeds and feeds to both drill material and workpiece hardness.
Use coolant-through or external coolant for deep holes to prevent tool failure.
Inspect drills frequently; replace at the first sign of edge wear to avoid compromising part quality.