What is a hss twist drill?
The drill has two cutting edges at its point and spiral flutes that carry chips out of the hole. High-speed steel keeps its hardness at the temperatures of drilling, so it can cut faster than plain carbon steel. Drills are made with straight or tapered shanks, in a wide range of diameters and lengths, and may be coated to cut cooler and last longer. The point angle and its grinding decide how well the drill cuts different materials.
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List your companyHSS Twist Drill or carbide drill?
An HSS drill is tough, forgiving and inexpensive, and can be reground, so it suits general work. A carbide drill is harder, cuts faster and lasts longer in production and hard materials, but is more brittle and costs more.
What to specify when you ask for a quote
- Diameter and length series: standard, jobber or long.
- Shank type: straight or Morse taper, and its size.
- Steel grade and heat treatment, such as plain high-speed steel or one with added cobalt.
- Coating, if any, and the materials it is meant for.
- Point angle and any special point grinding such as split point.
- Tolerance class for the diameter and the markings.
Where it is used
- Industrial MachineryMaintenance and machining in workshops.
- AutomotiveDrilling of components and assemblies.
- ConstructionDrilling steel sections and plates.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between HSS and cobalt drills?
Cobalt high-speed steel holds its hardness at higher temperatures than plain HSS, which suits tougher materials such as stainless steel. It costs more and is more brittle.
Why do drills wear or break?
Too high a speed, too little feed, no coolant, a dull point or a loose workpiece. Use correct speeds and feeds, coolant for metals and sharp drills.
Can a drill be resharpened?
Yes. Regrinding restores the point, and it can be done by hand skillfully or on a drill-grinding machine. Resharpening many times saves cost.
How do I choose the point angle?
A common angle suits general steel, and a flatter or sharper point suits harder or softer materials. A split point reduces walking at the start of a hole. Ask the supplier for guidance for your material.