High-speed steel (HSS) and cobalt are two common types of drill bits. They are both used in conjunction with a power drill to create holes in objects. HSS and cobalt drill bits, however, are made of different materials. For a better understanding of HSS and cobalt drill bits and how they differ, keep reading.
What Are HSS Drill Bits?
HSS drill bits are designed to withstand friction and heat. As their name suggests, HSS is a type of steel. It consists primarily of iron that’s mixed with other elements to enhance its performance at fast speeds.
HSS drill bits may contain the following elements in addition to iron:
- Chromium
- Vanadium
- Tungsten
- Carbon
- Nickel
What Are Cobalt Drill Bits?
Cobalt drill bits are characterized by their steel and cobalt construction. Cobalt is a metal with the atomic number 27. Cobalt drill bits are made of a combination of cobalt and steel.
Cobalt drill bits are still made primarily of steel, which is an alloy of iron and carbon. However, they contain a moderate amount of cobalt as well. Some cobalt drill bits contain 5% cobalt, whereas others contain up to 8% cobalt. Regardless, they all are made of both steel and cobalt.
Differences Between HSS and Cobalt Drill Bits
HSS and cobalt drill bits are both classified as steel drill bits. HSS drill bits are made of steel mixed with other elements to promote better performance at fast speeds. Cobalt drill bits, on the other hand, are made of steel mixed with cobalt. By adding cobalt to steel, they are exceptionally strong.
Cobalt drill bits are harder than HSS drill bits. Therefore, they don’t suffer from premature wear and tear. Cobalt drill bits can last a long time while creating holes with tight tolerances.
HSS drill bits are highly versatile. You can use them to create holes in wood, metal and even plastic. Although cobalt drill bits excel at drilling hard metals, their performance may not be as optimal when it comes to softer materials like wood or plastic. Using cobalt bits on such softer materials can result in a shorter bit lifespan.
HSS drill bits aren’t as brittle as their cobalt counterparts. The hard properties of cobalt drill bits make them somewhat brittle. HSS drill bits are softer, which in turn makes them less brittle.
HSS drill bits are more affordable than cobalt drill bits. This makes them a popular choice for consumers and business owners on a budget.
