Which is a better drill bit, cobalt or titanium?
The choice between cobalt and titanium drill bits depends on the specific application and material you are working with. Here's a comparison to help you decide:
Cobalt Drill Bits
Material: Made of high-speed steel (HSS) with 5-8% cobalt.
Durability: Extremely hard and heat-resistant, maintaining their sharpness longer.
Best for: Hard metals like stainless steel, cast iron, and other tough materials.
Cost: Generally more expensive due to the cobalt content.
Resharpening: Can be resharpened without losing their effectiveness.
Titanium Drill Bits
Material: High-speed steel (HSS) coated with titanium nitride (TiN).
Durability: Less durable than cobalt bits, as the coating can wear off over time.
Best for: Softer metals, wood, plastic, and other less tough materials.
Cost: Typically less expensive than cobalt bits.
Resharpening: Once the coating wears off, the drill bit loses its titanium advantage and performs like a standard HSS bit.
Summary
For hard metals: Cobalt drill bits are superior due to their durability and heat resistance.
For softer materials and general use: Titanium drill bits are a good choice as they are less expensive and perform well for a wide range of materials.
Choose cobalt drill bits for heavy-duty tasks and titanium drill bits for lighter, general-purpose drilling.